Park Ranger Woody Goodwin

Park Service Profiles

In the 17 years Woody Goodwin has worked as a ranger for the South Carolina State Park Service, his job has taken him to every corner of the state. From the secluded Lake Jocassee at Devils Fork State Park where he began his career, to the quiet beaches at Edisto Beach State Park, Goodwin has been lucky to work at some of South Carolina’s most remarkable parks.

“I have worked at parks on the coast, foothills and mountains, and have enjoyed each one on its own for the uniqueness of the resources there,” says Goodwin.

The Greenwood, South Carolina native attended Appalachian State University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management, and decided a career as a park ranger was right for him after a summer internship program. After graduation he began work as an Assistant Naturalist at Hunting Island, where he helped with interpretive programs.

Now he works as a Senior Ranger at Croft State Park in Spartanburg, where he resides with his wife and two young daughters. On any given day you’ll find Goodwin solving operational issues, teaching chainsaw instruction classes, doing various maintenance tasks, assisting with trail maintenance and serving and helping the various groups that use the park.

The duties of a Senior Ranger can be numerous, and his days on the park are often long, but Goodwin says he loves his job and finds each day to be an adventure.

“The most satisfying thing about my job is working in God’s creation every day with a great bunch of coworkers and helping people to enjoy their visits at the park.”