Pat Eastwood

In my job as Visitor Services Specialist for the state parks in the Piedmont region, I enjoy helping to spread the word about all the wonderful things we have to see and experience in Virginia State Parks.

I am a native of southern Virginia, where I grew up on a small tobacco farm and still make my home today. This is a part of our state that is rich in history and natural resources. Our parks, rivers and lakes offer a bounty of opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors together. Parks are also great places to learn about history and the environment.

When I was growing up, our family made many wonderful memories together in state parks. We enjoyed parks because of the amazing places we could visit at an affordable price. One of our favorite spots was Seashore State Park (now First Landing) in Virginia Beach.

Since I began this job eight years ago, it has been my pleasure to have visited many of our state parks all across the state, from the beaches to the bluegrass. I am always amazed by the beauty to be found here in Virginia.

My husband Larry is an avid fisherman and outdoor enthusiast. My son Grayson is a musician and has served as Virginia State Parks volunteer in our Youth Conservation Corps. As a family we like to spend time hiking and camping in Virginia State Parks whenever we can.

In my spare time I like shopping and attending live music performances of all kinds.  Our parks and the communities surrounding them offer a wealth of opportunities to explore artisan trails, wineries, antique shops and farmers markets. I enjoy all kinds of music, but especially blues, bluegrass, old time and gospel. I also volunteer as a music librarian with the Danville Symphony Orchestra.

I encourage everyone to get out and explore the beauty and diversity that Virginia has to offer. You never know what you might find right around the next bend in the road.