With 37 Virginia State Parks to choose from it is not easy to say which one is my favorite, as I have made happy memories at many of the parks. The experiences I have had and the wildlife encounters on the various hiking trails with my trusty Nikon made 2016 a stellar parks year.

2016 was a milestone year for Virginia State Parks as they celebrated 80 years of outdoor conservation and recreation, and 80 years of memory making for millions like me.

MY FAVORITE PLACES

If I were to ask every Park'r for their favorite park it may all come down to those fond memories as well. But have you ever noticed that it is often the hiccup in the road that makes memories? Like the time the tent collapsed during a strong summer thunderstorm? Of course at the time it was monumental, and a total disaster, but looking back now we can laugh and in fact even enjoy the memory. Somehow those unexpected occurrences make for great bonding times.

I think we are too hard on ourselves, I bet if each one of us looked back we would find some humor in our camping outtakes, or even hiking, biking, boating snafus at Virginia State Parks. Here is a countdown just in time for New Years of my 6 favorite places:

6. The dam and spillway at Douthat State Park

While I love to watch the water fall over the spillway and explore around the base which is specifically the kids fishing area at this park, I found something even more intriguing, the view. Looking back from the hike over the dam just took my breath away. There are 43 miles of trails, learn more about the hiking trails (PDF) at Douthat State Park here.

5. The groovy lodge at Fairy Stone State Park

What's not to love about this lodge? It's set back under the trees, featuring a big river-rock fireplace, huge kitchen for groups or families to cook great meals together, and all within walking distance to the swimming beach. More about overnight accommodations at this woodsy Virginia State Park here.

4. On a tube at James River State Park

Renting a tube from the livery at this park was my favorite fun place this summer. In fact it was so fun we did it twice. You can "byo" tube or kayak and they can even pick you up after you paddle the river. Learn more about the seasonal livery service here.

NATURAL BRIDGE STATE PARK IS FOR LOVERS

3. Observing park'rs at Natural Bridge State Park

Could it be the shape of the arch is reminiscent or a wedding gazebo? Whatever it is, this park ranks high in the romance department. I watched couples stroll past hand in hand and it made me smile. Could this very well be the icon for the old and yet very current "Virginia is for lovers" slogan? I think Thomas Jefferson may agree, more here.

2. The trail that leads to the trail at High Bridge Trail State Park

31 miles of trails with different sections to choose and pick how far you want to ride is a favorite at this park, just make sure you ride the trail that leads to the trail, er the bridge, as it is the crown jewel of this Virginia State Park. Wait, don't just ride "to" the bridge, be sure to ride over it. Stop midway and look down at the Appomattox River. Learn more about access points and more info here.

And finally my favorite place of all...

1. On the right foot at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

This was the fifth year in a row Park'rs across the Commonwealth went on a first day hike at a Virginia State Park, and I was there too, hiking the Turtle Island Trail.

Somehow this has become a fun memory making tradition for our family, in just a short time. It was a great way to get fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors. This year there is an added incentive to begin 2017 on the right foot, learn more about the New Year Challenge and Photo Contest here.

We would love to hear about your favorite place at a Virginia State Park, you can comment on this blog below, or join the fun on our Facebook page. What makes your favorite place special?

PICK YOUR FAVORITE PLACE