But let's say you want to contact some parks around US and the world. Yes, you'll need a radio, but this post is more about the easy finding and logging of stations. We'll assume you can work your base or portable rig.
Best place to start is https://pota.app/ where you'll find where on the dial to look for currently active POTA stations. This saves a lot of frustrating hunting, and will land you some DX too.
Register at this app. POTA.app is free, easy, and will save you much time and trouble. Yes, actually get off your bottom and register -only takes a moment. Everything is on the page; there's nothing to download. Use it on any phone, tablet or computer. Yes, actually summon the energy to type your call sign once to register. You'll be happy you did.
The app will automatically log your contacts, update your tally, and conveniently import-export with most other logging apps. Want to find out more about POTA? There's an extensive DOCS tab to help.
This is what the website looks like:
- Click to enlarge
Get out that QRP rig, some bug-spray and a park picnic table and have fun!
FWIW, I'll post another time what my portable station-in-a-bag looks like, with a few thoughts on operating it...
-Or, better still, you could tell us about yours!