I am a resident of Portsmouth, VA.  I have three children.  I would like to visit all of Virginia's parks, but when I read stories about visitors at parks being attacked by predators (both the two-legged and four-legged varities), I want to be able to protect me and mine.

As a small-framed female, most criminals would consider me a target.  Being distracted by three children marks me as an easier target.  Several years ago I took the training course to get my Virginia Concealed Carry Permit. 

Please tell me WHY would I want to visit a park that will not let me carry my handgun? 

If an animal is attacking my child, do I have time to wait for a park ranger to arrive?  Ditto for a rapist.

It has been proven over and over (see the data on the state of TEXAS), when more LAW ABIDING CITIZENS conceal carry, fewer crimes are committed.  It has also be proven that gun laws don't keep the criminals from being armed.  If Mr. Bad-Guy doesn't know who might be carrying, he'll take his crime someplace else... like someplace where guns are banned.

So to summarize, if you want me and my family to visit your parks and SPEND OUR MONEY, allow me to have my handgun with me.  Otherwise, I'll have to travel out of state to a park that will allow me to protect my family and myself.