When the Wolf Trap Ramblers strike up their fiddles this Saturday evening at 7 p.m. in Staunton River State Park it will be their last performance there for the year. Their bluegrass tunes have become a big favorite at the park, said Stephanie Allen, park office manager. “They have a loyal following that comes each time they play, in addition to those who are already here at our campgrounds and cabins.”
This summer has been a good one for the park, Stephanie says, noting that use by local residents has increased significantly this season. “I don’t know whether that is due to the higher gasoline prices, but for whatever reason, we’ve seen more local people here.”
This Monday marks the closure of the park’s pool, and special programs also end for the season this week-end.
But in addition to the Ramblers’ Pickin’ in the Park special there will be several popular attractions over the next several days. A new program just instituted this year — What Kind of Super Hero Are You? is set for Thursday evening beginning at 6:30 p.m. That program has elicited much comment, particularly from parents, who say the emphais on recycling and the importance of planting trees has made an impact on their youngsters.
Another popular program this year has been the evening canoe trips, the last of which will begin this Friday at 6 p.m. where the trips will be made on the beautiful and peaceful lake on the property recently purchased by the park from James Edmunds.
On Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. park staffers will be teaching youngsters (and oldsters, as well) how to use the GPS system as they conduct a scavenger hunt which entails the use of the system in finding clues to treasures, such as special coupons for use at the park’s concession stand. “This is a very popular family oriented activity, but youngsters under the age of eight will likely need some adult help,” Stephanie said.
And just as always there will be walks with the rangers around the park on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
While this week-end wraps up the special events, the campgrounds and the cabins at the park will be open until December 1. While both have been occupied most of the summer, Stephanie said “the campgrounds have really been booming all season.”