Brave trainers of all ages have already found numerous wild Pokémon wandering throughout Virginia State Parks. On the weekend following the launch of the popular new cell phone-based game, Pokémon GO, many state park guests were braving the summer heat with phone in hand to track down some of the more elusive Pokémon or to stock up on supplies at different Pokestops.

Pokemon and trainers were spotted at State Parks across Virginia. Valor, Mystic, and Instinct were all well represented, with multiple gyms frequently changing ownership between the three teams as trainers took to the battleground with their new digital allies. Fortunately we were able to catch some photos of the Pokemon at Leesylvania State Park.

Pikachu enjoys the sights at the Leesylvania State Park Visitor center.

Some trainers decided to take advantage of the cool breeze coming off of the Potomac River by resting on benches with Pokestops nearby and setting out a lure for everyone to enjoy. Many struck up conversations with one another and became newfound friends – or friendly rivals. Other trainers decided to spend their afternoon hiking the trails to rack up those longer distances needed to hatch found eggs. One trainer mentioned that he had already managed to hatch two different eggs requiring 10km worth of hiking each. That’s dedication!

Eevee takes a stroll down Leesylvania's Bushey Point Trail

At Leesylvania State Park, an emerging favorite pair of Pokestops is located next to the Breakwater Store. Not only are there a few benches and picnic tables nearby, but the site also offers a great view of the Potomac River by the boat launch area. The Breakwater Store is the park’s free public WiFi zone, and both snacks and drinks are available just inside. It’s also where the park hosts its monthly summer concert event, Music at the Marina, so be sure to come out and catch some Pokémon with great live music as a soundtrack!

Magnemite checks out if the wind is right for sailing on the Potomac River

State Park staff, which includes several trainers of varying experience, would like to offer some helpful advice for trainers seeking to take advantage of our parks when playing Pokémon GO. If you want to be the very best, definitely keep these pointers in mind!

• Be aware of your surroundings! Pokémon GO reminds all players of this each time they log into the game, however it bears repeating. Trip hazards abound between tree roots, fence posts, ditches, and even vehicles moving through the parking lots. When tracking down new Pokémon who might be just a few steps away, it’s also a great idea to have a friend help by being a spotter in case tracking requires a lot of concentration.

• Be considerate of other park guests. When getting ready to catch a new Pokémon, it’s a great idea to step to the side of a trail or onto a road shoulder so you don’t block others who might be walking past. This is also a great time to step underneath a tree to get some much needed shade.

• Stay hydrated! The summer heat and humidity can be unforgiving, so make sure to take breaks and bring extra water. Water fountains are available in the day use area, and bottled drinks can be purchased at the park’s Breakwater Store and Visitor Center.

• Stick to the trails. Pokestops and gyms are located at major facilities or on well-marked trails in the parks. Pokémon tend to wander closer to these markers. In addition to being against park rules, stepping off of trails introduces trainers to a whole new level of hazards from unexpected drop-offs to prolific poison ivy. Don’t fall into Ivysaur’s trap!  Leaves of three, leave it be.

• Be prepared for longer hikes. If 10km sounds a very long hiking distance, try out a shorter trail at first. Wear comfortable clothes, hiking boots or other closed-toe shoes that are not sandals, and watch out for blisters. A portable cell phone charger is also an option for those extra-long training trips. Don’t forget a hat, sunblock, and insect repellant, too.  It’s also good practice to do a “tick check” when you get home to make sure no hitchhikers were accidentally picked up. Pay special attention to ankles, waists, and anywhere clothing fits tight!Follow all park rules and regulations. 

• If bringing a four-legged friend, they will need to be kept on a 6 foot leash at all times. Trainers are welcome to explore the park during daylight hours but must leave by the posted closing time.

• Some of our State Parks have better cell service than others so it may be hard to find Pokémon at some parks.

• Lastly, don’t forget to stop and look around! Our Virginia State Parks have hundreds of beautiful vistas and abundant wildlife in addition to the wandering Pokémon, so take the opportunity to smell the honeysuckle or watch a fawn graze nearby. There’s a lot to enjoy!

Jigglypuff considers getting out a fishing rod at the Leesylvania State Park pier.

Good luck to all the trainers out there who are working hard to catch ‘em all!