Shared by Ranger Rachel Blevins, as Guest Blogger.

Dear Virginia State Park Guests…

I won’t deny that I have one of the best jobs – no two days are ever the same, my office at Natural Tunnel State Park has some awesome views, and I am constantly learning something new daily. And while all of this sounds too good to be true, they’re not my favorite “perks” of the job. The best part is you – our park visitors. I’ll explain why, but first let’s back up to March of 2020.

One of the beautiful views I enjoy on the job

Everything drastically changed for all of us, including life in state parks. While trails were open, campgrounds and cabins were closed for a short time. It was an eerie feeling. The sounds of children playing no longer echoed through the park and the smell of campfires in the evenings and early mornings was missing in the campgrounds. Luckily by June we felt a sense of normalcy when we saw tents, campers and campfires return once again.

For some time, interpretive programs drastically changed as well. Instead of seeing smiling young faces filled with excitement and wonder, I simply saw a camera as I recorded a virtual program. That is when I realized how much I truly missed my visitors during programs. I missed the “wow” moments, the questions, the laughs and connections made. It was then that I realized how much I had taken human interaction for granted. Without guests, the program felt empty. Our park guests are simply the missing puzzle piece that make our programs so worthwhile.

Our guests are what makes our programs meaningful and fun

Since starting in-person programming again, I am so grateful that I can finally interact with visitors. I have met so many amazing families, not only this summer but in years past. I’ve watched children grow up as they visit each year.

Most recently, I led a hike down to the natural tunnel for a couple from North Carolina. They were able to see a train pass through the tunnel and we took extra time to explore. We found a variety of mushrooms in almost every shade of the rainbow.

Hike to the natural tunnel to see the incredible views

The most exciting part of this hike was seeing two river otters swimming in the creek – a truly rare event at the park. This day was one for the books and I will always remember it and this couple from North Carolina.

If I have learned anything from the past six months, it’s to never take human interaction for granted. I now have a new found appreciation for guests at programs. As park rangers, we’re told that we create and provide so many memories for our visitors, which is true. But for me, park guests have given me the greatest, most cherished memories as a park ranger. So, Virginia State Park guests – thank you for making my job so awesome.

-Ranger Rachel