Whenever I use the term Park'r on social media like the Virginia State Parks Facebook page some may not understand my meaning. When I say "Park'r" I am abbreviating park-goer and using it in context to those who like myself, love Virginia State Parks. 

Some online review sites and social media attract the complainers, the yelpers, the nay-sayers but I think about 99% of those who visit Virginia State Parks for the first time get it in their blood and can't wait to go back.

Many of us make Virginia State Park Bucket Lists where we want to visit all 36 state parks across Virginia or have specific sights to see or things to accomplish like hiking the Appalachian Trail from Sky Meadows State Park, or reaching the top of Molly's Knob Trail at Hungry Mother State Park to take in the panoramic view. These people are Park'rs.

5 THINGS YOU MUST DO TO BECOME AN "OFFICIAL" PARK'R

1. EXPLORE A TRAIL

This can be any trail at any park, whether it is a 5 miler rugged uphill all the way, or one like this Mulberry Creek Trail at Belle Isle State Park that transfers you to a lovely boardwalk loop near the water. This showcases the diversity of ecosystems at this beautiful Virginia State Park. Hiking makes you a Park'r.

2. GET WET

With most Virginia State Parks close to water you can't help but get wet, or at least muddy and that is all part of the fun. So if you swim, paddle, fish, boat, climb, beachcomb, bird-watch, fossil hunt in or near the water and get wet, then you are enjoying a part of the parks culture. Getting wet makes you a Park'r.

3. STOP AND GO AHHH!

This view of Douthat Lake and Dam with the Alleghany Mountains as the backdrop will make you pause and go ahhh at Douthat State Park. You can even walk out on the dam to the spillway. If you ever pause and go ahhh then you are a Park'r.

4. COOKOUT

It can be hotdogs at a picnic area, venison steaks outside a cabin or marshmallows for s'mores around a fire at your campsite. Whatever you cook outside just seems to taste better. Cabins, campsites and picnic areas all provide pedestal grills or campfire rings for this purpose. If you have ever cooked outside at a Virginia State Park then you are a Park'r.

5. SUPPORT

Get involved with Virginia State Parks in any form or fashion that you are able, this can be our "rounding up" campaign, be a park camp host, join a friend group for your favorite park, join VAFP and let your voice be heard, or more.

Search for volunteer opportunities here, or learn more on this page.

If you are involved you have an investment in the parks, your time is invaluable.

Follow and share our posts on Facebook is also a way of supporting Virginia State Parks as you advocate for getting outside at the parks. If you have done any of these things, then you are a Park'r.