Many people who visit state parks and historic sites year after year think of them as a second home. But Grafton Lakes State Park is truly home to park manager Melissa Ann Miller.

Grafton Lakes has always been a special place for Miller. As a child, she visited frequently.  She has worked there for 20 years and lived in the park for over a decade, raising her family on site. She moved in when her oldest son was two years old, and her youngest son has never known any other home.

“He was raised here… born, raised, done every activity in the park, been a part of everything. Even knowing that we ever lived in another place just blows his mind,” Miller said. “He’s 11… he can’t even fathom.”

As one of several Parks employees who lives permanently at their park or historic site facility, Miller has a unique perspective and story to share.

The New York State Parks and Historic Sites system was created to preserve the natural wonders and historic places of our state and to provide wholesome, affordable recreation for New Yorkers and visitors. Over the past 100 years, it’s become a cornerstone of millions of lives. Throughout the Centennial year, countless New Yorkers have shared their stories with us. We’ve introduced you to:

• Ladders To The Outdoors Statewide Coordinator KeJuan Harmon, who helps underserved children experience the outdoors
• Letchworth-based Environmental Educator Conrad Baker, who spoke movingly of the transformative power of the nation’s first Autism Nature Trail
• New York State Assembly Minority Leader William Barclay, who fished at Mexico Point with his dad as a kid, then passed the tradition to his sons
• The Grupe Family, whose choice location for a family reunion is not a restaurant or picnic grove, but the Jones Beach Air Show
• Parks Deputy Commissioner Andy Fyfe, who mused on all the roles Saratoga Spa State Park has played in his life, from a childhood hangout to the site of his first professional job, to his dream wedding venue
• Karen Seward, who looked back fondly on celebrating her high school graduation with a road trip to Letchworth State Park with her friends
• State Senator Jose Serrano, who shared fond memories of Harriman State Park, swimming at the Bear Mountain State Park pool, and visiting Roberto Clemente State Park with his family
• Gov. Kathy Hochul, who remembered tent camping and pancakes in the rain at Wellesley Island State Park

But there is still a story we haven’t heard: yours. Share your New York State Parks story with us by emailing stories@parks.ny.gov, using #NYStateParksStory on Facebook, Instagram or X, or using our web form.

– Written by Kate Jenkins, Digital Specialist, Public Affairs