Chris Houck, the new park operations manager for Ohiopyles State Park, said he is looking forward to getting to know the area as he gets used to his new role.
Chris Houck, the new park operations manager at Ohiopyle State Park, wants to use his experience and passion for nature to help improve the visitor experience at the park.
“I like to think of a park manager as a problem solver and facilitator,” said Houck, who started last month. “I will work to understand the needs of our staff, visitors, local communities and youth groups to figure out how I can best meet them.”
A State College native, Houck holds a degree in recreation, parks and tourism management from Penn State University. He brings over a decade of hands-on experience from various state parks throughout Pennsylvania, most recently serving as park operations manager at Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Cumberland County.
His love of the outdoors began when his father took him hunting and fishing. Houck said his appreciation for the outdoors led him to his later career.
“I really saw joining the parks administration as an opportunity to be part of the effort to keep these public spaces accessible,” he said.
As park manager, Houck is responsible for overseeing many aspects of the state park, from budgeting and staffing to land management and visitor services. And while he said he can’t wait to get started, Houck stressed the importance of getting to know park staff, user groups and the local community before making major changes.
“I have to find out what they need, what the park needs, and really get to know the area,” said Houck, who succeeded Ken Bisbee after he retired earlier this year.
One of Ohiopyle Park’s main attractions is its wide range of outdoor recreational activities. The park is approximately 20,500 acres in size and attracts more than 1 million visitors annually seeking everything from whitewater rafting to extensive hiking.
Houck said he is committed to highlighting these unique features and ensuring the park remains accessible to all and well maintained.
The sense of adventure at the park is what excites Houck in his new role. The new park manager said he is ready to work with the team to build on those strengths and continue to provide a world-class experience for visitors.
“There’s something for everyone to experience,” Houck said. “Whether you’ve been visiting the park for years or it’s your first time, it really is a great place.”
