Big Ridge State Park had a record year last year in visitation despite being closed for about a month in the spring.
This summer was another record year for Big Ridge as it was for all parks across the nation. As the season winds down the staff here at Big Ridge can finally take a deep breath.
Everyone that works at Big Ridge deserves a great big shout out for their hard work the last couple of years. We truly have a great team working together.
David Wilkerson is our official campground host. Though he is technically not staff he is part of our park team. He has become an important part of our team when we needed him most.
David grew up just a few miles down the road from the park off Hinds Creek Road. As a young man, he served for our U.S. Military overseas in Vietnam where he earned a Bronze Star for discovering a Vietnamese spy.
I brag on David, but he is truly is a humble man that lives his life to share the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
David has never met a stranger. His welcoming charm and ever-watchful eye gives families a sense of security while camping at Big Ridge. The campground is a safe place, but it is not without trouble at times.
Like a shepherd, David’s presence has made the park a safe place to escape to nature and take a break from a crazy world. He not only keeps the park safe but also friendly. David helps out by selling firewood and picking up litter while greeting the campers and park visitors.
Part of my job I love is the culture of the area. I love old Appalachian knowledge and slang. David has become a mentor in my life, constantly having conversation about folks that use to live around here and how folks got by and did things.
His knowledge is unending like many older folks that have lived in these parts for their whole lives. David has been coming to the park to camp and visit for over 50 years.
David’s son Tommy helps his dad when he is not doing maintenance work for Anderson County Schools. Together Tommy and David are a great team to greet and help campers staying at Big Ridge.
David will be going home soon for the winter. Even though he is just down the road I will miss having here in the park every day. He said God willing, he will be back next summer. So, if you are passing through or staying at Big Ridge next summer and looking for some good conversation be on the lookout for Mr. Wilkerson.