Young People in Virginia State Parks

Tuesday, February 16, 2010 by Amanda Moore
When someone asks where I work, I proudly respond with “The Department of Conservation and Recreation with the Division of State Parks.” Coming from an 18 year old, this tends to sound rather impressive. I have worked off and on with State Parks for three years. Sure, I’ve had other jobs at salons, doctor’s offices, etc. None of them can compare with my experience at State Parks. 

During my employment I have gained valuable administrative experience, and received excellent customer service training. But most importantly for me, I have been converted from what my mother refers to as “an improper foot wear, city girl” to a hiking boot wearing outdoorsy girl with a new found love and respect for Mother Nature. And the best thing about State Parks is that there are so many opportunities for people my age. You could be working in one of Virginia’s most precious resources! Check your local State Park and visit our jobs listing.

YCC Supervisors Garret Milton, Amanda Moore, Jason Milton at Shenandoah River State Park

A State Parks Family

Tuesday, February 16, 2010 by Amanda Moore
Almost five years ago my family moved from Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California to Quantico Marine Corps Base in Stafford, Virginia. Starting high school in a new state is a rather daunting experience, most military brats can attest to that. However, I lucked out when my mother got a position as a Visitor Services Specialist with Virginia State Parks in Northern Virginia. We quickly became a State Parks family, attending Music at the Marina, Multicultural Festivals, and Haunted History Hikes. It was a new home away from home with built in friends. Before I knew it I was working at Leesylvania State Park with the Director of Volunteer Services. My older brothers were spending summers with the Youth Conservation Corps, my dad was volunteering at Operation Fresh Air, even my youngest brother would tag along and help out where he could. Though my parents are relocating to Okinawa, Japan I plan on staying behind and continuing the Juarez/Moore family legacy at VA State Parks.