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Welcome to the wonderful world of paddlesports, where water whisks you away into a magical paradise and pastime you can pursue forever with family and friends. It provides exercise, a way to get out in the wild, and lets you go at your own pace

One is the challenge of traveling tough terrain armed with driving skill and the mechanical capabilities offered by a 4x4’s power and traction. So, with vacation time just around the corner, wouldn’t it be great to use those four-wheeling skills practiced at local off-road parks and recreation areas in other parts of the country, to literally broaden your 4x4 horizons? This guide presents 10 of the best 4x4 vacation spots in the United States, spanning the entire breadth of the country, from the desert Southwest to the Outer Banks on the Atlantic Coast. Use the links provided to learn more about where you’re going: recommended vehicle equipment; weather and trail conditions; what to pack (including how much water per person per day); local permits that may be required; closures due to weather, fire, or vegetation restoration; and so on.

There is nothing quite like a spring or summer camping trip to help us reconnect with nature and recharge our batteries. The warmer weather is a perfect excuse to gather up friends and family, head out to your favor campsite, and spend a few days hiking, gathering around the campfire, and sleeping under the stars. If your camping equipment is in serious need of an upgrade before you head out to the backcountry, however, we have some suggestions on the best new gear that you’ll want to have with you this summer.

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need many technical skills to go paddling because today's craft are more stable than ever. The hardest part is knowing when to stop—time has a way of slipping by as your hull glides across the water. You do, however, need to know so of the basics. If you’re just getting into kayaking, the following six pointers will help you get started on your first on-water adventure.