Wilderness Road State Park received a wonderful surprise on Thursday, October 1st when volunteer Steve Nycum showed up as a Fall Fairy to work his magic on transforming the park's Visitor Center to match the seasonal theme.

Volunteer Steve Nycum donates his time and material to decorate the park

Nycum is a member of the park's Friends of Wilderness Road community support organization and has provided decorations for the park's two October events, the Heritage Festival and Pumpkins in the Park, each of the past four years. The decorations, which include pumpkins, gourds, hay and broom corn are all grown on Nycum's farm located just a few miles from the park.

Steve is a member of the park's Friends support organization

"If it adds to the season, if it makes one person's day a little better...makes them smile, then I am happy and my job is done," Nycum said while putting the final touches on the Visitor Center decorations. He also provides decorations for the bridge that leads guests to the Karlan Mansion, site of the Heritage Festival and kids activities for Pumpkins in the Park as well as decorations for the stage that creates a beautiful autumn backdrop for the bands that provide live music during the festival.

Nycum says he enjoys farming and enjoys harvesting the items, some of which makes their way to the park. "I always grow some extra each year, just to bring to the park and give it a little fall feel," he says.

Volunteer Nycum puts the finishing touches on the decorations

Wilderness Road State Park sits annually at the top of the chart for volunteer hours, with the Friends group an invaluable asset. Many of our special events simply would not be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers.

If you are interested in volunteering at Wilderness Road State Park, please give us a call at 276-445-3065. For volunteer opportunites in other state state parks, visit the official Virginia State Park website here.