Park of the Month:Plans, People, Programs and Career Paths
Planning for a great outdoor season is a time consuming endeavor led by First Landing State Park is filling up the spring, summer, and fall program series with some great programs and special events.
Go on a guided hike to look for critters like this fiddler crab, marsh birds, turtles and snakes.
Some weeks, there are well over 20 programs on the schedule. Click backpacks chock full of field guides and equipment that you can check out for free while you explore the park on your own.
Exploring the park on your own? Check out on of our themed Park Packs chock full of field guides and equipment.
Recently, Daniel Russo joined the park's education team under the long-distance supervision of Chief Ranger Jennifer Huggins Daniel transferred to Bear Creek Lake State Park and has over five years of environmental education experience as well as a B.S. and M.S. in Marine Science. I can't wait to attend some of his crabbing and beach programs!
Ready to lead programs, Daniel Russo gets familiar with owl handling techniques. You can visit our owl and other animals in the Trail Center during Discovery Center hours.
Daniel said "My favorite trail is the Osmanthus Trail because, as a trail runner, I enjoy the rugged beauty of the Bald Cypress marshes while traversing the boardwalks and rolling dunes."
Park maintenance staff along with our new Osmanthus Trailhikes, too.
The Osmanthus Trail winds through the ancient maritime forest traversing ancient dunes and Bald Cypress swamps.
Many of our regular visitors are already asking about Jennifer Huggins. She has been a mainstay in the park's education arena for the past 8 years. Hired as a summer employee after her freshman year atJames Madison University, Jennifer has a Master's in Education and continues to attend professional development courses like Project Wet, Project Wild, and other workshops. However, Jennifer's next endeavor is keeping her away from the park until mid-summer.
Jennifer teaches children and their families how to build outdoor shelters during the Survive First Landing program. Helping visitors forge connections to the outdoors is Jennifer's goal with the program schedule.
Checking in often by email and visiting the park on the weekends, Jennifer is working on her law enforcement training and certifications at Virginia State Parks career path. She'll have to hit the ground running because this is going to be a busy summer.
Don't forget your bike! Spring rides along the Cape Henry Trail allow you to coast through this verdant landscape taking in all the sights and sounds.
Talking about busy summers–we hope you are making your Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 1-800-933-PARK to make your reservation.
Cooler spring and fall months are great for tent camping. Fewer bugs and cool evenings around the campfire make for a pleasant outdoor adventure. Bring your favorite s'mores supplies!
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