Parker McCollum’s Journey into Fatherhood and the Outdoors

Parker McCollum has really grown since he was a little boy excited to join his father on hunting adventures. Now, as a father to two sons, he’s eager to create similar memories for them.

In fact, he’s already begun that journey.

McCollum and his wife Hallie Ray welcomed their second son in July. Recently, he spent some quality time at their family ranch with his eldest son, 2-year-old Major.

“I was taking him with me to do some ranch stuff,” McCollum shared during an interview. “He can’t really help much yet; he just stands around pulling grass out while I work.”

While Major might not be of much assistance just yet, McCollum cherishes these moments. After all, he has fond memories of being that young boy himself.

“I remember those days so vividly,” he reflected. “My dad would pull me out of school early to head down to the ranch for the weekend. It was often just the two of us.”

Looking ahead, he can’t wait for similar times with Major.

A Lifelong Passion for Hunting

Hunting has been a part of McCollum’s life for as long as he can remember. He reminisced about going bird hunting with his father as a young child, using a single-shot .410 shotgun. For him, his dad remains one of his favorite hunting partners.

Yet, even before he could participate, McCollum’s passion for the outdoors was evident. He recalls feeling left out when his family went on hunting trips without him, often crying for not being old enough to join.

Once he finally got that opportunity, he was hooked and has been passionate about it ever since.

That love for nature didn’t stop during the off-season either. He also spent summers working with cattle and helping out on his grandfather’s ranch alongside his cousins. Now, he wishes for Major and his younger brother Rocker to experience that same appreciation for nature.

For McCollum, it’s about more than just hunting.

“So Good for Your Soul”

Balancing a hectic music career with being a father can be tough, and McCollum knows the importance of taking time to slow down.

“There’s nothing better than sitting in a tree stand, whether it’s in East Texas or the Midwest. Even if you don’t see a deer, it just feels good for your soul,” he noted.

He emphasized that their trips to the ranch aren’t about checking off a list or squeezing in activities. Instead, it’s about slowing down, spending quality family time, and enjoying each other’s company.

“Our goal was just to take it easy, enjoy meals together, and have no agenda,” he explained. “We wake up late, cook breakfast, hunt in the evenings, and just ride around.”

This approach contrasts sharply with the hectic pace of modern life—something McCollum feels increasingly compelled to step away from.

He hopes his sons will remember this lesson: “Don’t get so busy or focused on other things that you forget to enjoy moments like this.”

And honestly, it’s a sentiment that resonates with many of us.