John James Audubon Museum and Nature Center
Apparently, players of the new “Pokemon Go” game are having luck catching virtual creatures at Kentucky State Parks! Just goes to show you, even virtual creatures know how fun Kentucky State Parks are.
“Pokemon Go” is a ridiculously popular game right now with people of all ages – the best thing about it is that it’s encouraging people to get out and explore as they collect virtual creatures with their Smartphone.
Naturally, visitors are welcome to play the game at state parks and historic sites, however the state parks do have a few safety guidelines.
“All we ask is that they be careful and obey a few basic rules for safety,” said state park Naturalist Robert Myers.
His suggestions for those playing the game include:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially along trails, roadways, cliffs, streams and lakes.
- Stay on hiking trails; do not wander off trails.
- Be aware of park hours. Some parks close at night.
- Do not enter private campsites or property.
- Look up and enjoy some of the great natural and historical surroundings at state parks. You may get to see some real wildlife like a bird or deer.
Pokemon hunters have reported success at Waveland State Historic Site in Lexington, John James Audubon State Park in Henderson and Green River Lake State Park near Campbellsville.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park in Prestonsburg is planning to have organized hunts for guests during the summer.
Pokemon Go players can also take advantage of the many events and programs at Kentucky State Parks. To find out more about lodging, camping, restaurants and other special events, visit parks.ky.gov.
You can also learn more about Kentucky State Parks and post photos of your Pokemon Go experiences on the Kentucky State Park Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram.
**** Be sure you download the OFFICIAL Pokemon Go app. I just saw a news item about a fake Pokemon Go app on Google Play infecting phones.
More Pictures of John James Audubon State Park:
while not a participant in the Pokemon Go! craze, I find that Kentucky’s use of the game to promote state parks and historical sites to be a great way for the state to induce players to learn about and see more of our UnCommonwealth and its history!
maybe making rare creatures appear on a full moon night at Cumberland Falls (moonbows & pokemon), or on a historical person’s birthday would encourage people to take this a step further and motivate them to learn even more about the rich and diverse history of our state!
I totally agree, Ken! It’s a great opportunity for people of all ages to get outside, become more active, and learn about their state and its history. I don’t play the game, either, but I’m all for the fun and excitement it’s generating! – Joi (“Joy”)