Fairy Stone State Park Manager, Mr. John Grooms Traditional Geocache

This geocache is placed with permission of Fairy Stone State Park.  It is one of the six original Virginia State Parks opening June 15, 1936.  With 4,741 acres and  an 168 acre lake adjoining the Philpott Reservoir, Fairy Stone State Park is a great location for swimming, fishing, hiking, picnics, camping, wildlife viewing and, of course, geocaching.  Fairy Stone State Park is located at 967 Fairystone Lake Drive, Stuart, Virginia.  There is a fee for park entry.

This geocache has been placed to honor and celebrate 39 years of service to the Virginia State Park system and as Fairy Stone State Park Manager, Mr. John Grooms. He began work with the Virginia State Park system in 1980 then joined Fairy Stone State Park in November, 1990 and has served faithfully the role of Park Manager ever since.  A kind and gentle man, he has held the high standards of his position, earning the respect of the park staff and community. He has always looked out for the best interest of the Park. He has been supportive of park volunteers, attended numerous events and celebrations, making friends that would only help improve a wonderful Virginia State Park. He has helped Fairy Stone State Park grow in what it offers to park guests...a well maintained campground for those with RV's or tents, the addition of four yurts to Fairy Stone while he was manager offering yet other options for those wanting an overnight stay.  Through his dedication, the original Civilian Conservation Camp's cabins, along the lake, have maintained their rustic charm, having been constructed during the Great Depression. The beach area has remained one of the strong draws of Fairy Stone State Park visitors, with a well maintained shoreline, swimming, lifeguards during beach season, canoes, paddle boats and someone always willing to help you when you need it. Everyone follows through Mr. John Groom's example...that kindness and respect shows for your character and work ethics.

Several years ago, we were fortunate to have Mr. John Grooms, present us with our "Trail Quest Master Pins" for having visited all Virginia State Parks.  I suggest that if you are involved with this program, keep up the good work.  For those of you who don't know anything about it, check out the VSP webpage to learn and register for it.  It all starts with the first Virginia State Park you visit.  Mr. Grooms has had only good comments to make about the program.  It also shows, through those who have worked under him, that enthusiasm is contagious.  Every single person we have ever met at Fairy Stone State Park has been kind, courteous, care about their coworkers, their park visitors and most importantly about Fairy Stone State Park itself.

We celebrate with Mr. John Grooms that he has done an incredible job here at Fairy Stone and will be greatly missed by the park staff and those of us who have known him on our visits there.  Best wishes John and happy retirement!  

You will be looking for a small lock-and-lock container along the Little Mountain Falls Trail.  This contains only a log so you will need to bring your own pen.  Please remember to wear some good hiking shoes.  It is just a few steps off the trail and no bushwacking is needed.  The parking area is a bit of distance away, BUT if you are staying in the campground area, it's just a short hike to reach.  Little Mountain Falls Trail is also an equestrian trail so watch out for those on horseback.   Please leave as you found it.