Alert:
This year’s theme – ‘Where Community Grows’ – celebrates the vital role that parks and recreation plays in bringing people together, providing essential services and fostering the growth of our communities.
I’ve had the privilege to see, first-hand, this amazing reality as our residents engage with one another through play, exercise, service, special events and any number of shared interests. That’s what makes parks magical, there is literally something for everyone and, often times, the experiences we have teach us something about ourselves as well as help us forge connections we may have otherwise never known were possible.
I invite you to celebrate Parks and Recreation Month with us by finding your community within the Fairfax County Park System!
-Jai Cole, Executive Director, Fairfax County Park Authority
Stay cool, splash around and have fun in water! Whether you want to swim, paddle, boat or just enjoy looking at picturesque waterways, Fairfax County Park Authority provides many options to create memories with loved ones and connect with fellow community members at our pools, splash pads and waterways!
Water Parks
Marinas
Outdoor Pool
Indoor Pools
The Fairfax County Park Authority manages a network of Rec Centers all throughout the county – and there’s no better way to motivate and encourage a healthy lifestyle than by having the support of an engaged fitness community! Our Rec Centers have so much to offer – including workout equipment and fitness classes, skate parks, running tracks, sports courts, pools, spas and saunas.
Some options are unique to specific locations, so leave no stone unturned! See what’s available through our entire network of rec centers, or select from the list below for the details for a specific location near you:
Find your community in the great outdoors! Our parks have numerous enriching activities that will enhance your experience and allow you to make the most of your time in nature.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Take advantage of the 337 miles of trails in the parks. Enjoy the serene surroundings, observe wildlife, and explore different ecosystems.
Wildlife Observation
Our parks are home to a diverse array of wildlife. Bring along binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to observe and photograph animals in their natural habitat.
Find more about animals and plants in the parks
Picnics
Pack a delicious picnic and find a scenic spot within the park to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Camping
Pack your tents and head out to Burke Lake or Lake Fairfax Park to spend a night under the stars. Grab some s’mores, gather around a campfire and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the park after dark.
Nature Education Programs
Our parks offer guided nature walks, workshops and educational programs led by naturalist staff. Try a class and learn more about various natural topics in the parks.
At Golf Fairfax, we are committed to growing a thriving golf community. With our seven golf courses, four driving ranges and mini golf, Golf Fairfax offers a place for all ages and abilities to play, practice and celebrate! Explore quality and affordable options to come together and grow lasting friendships on the fairways. Golfers can unite and connect with fun tournaments, leagues and socials too!
Exercise your “green thumbs” as part of our countywide gardening community! Develop practical landscaping and gardening techniques that are appropriate for the Washington metro area. Expand your knowledge by attending workshops, joining a horticultural society, or by creating your own thriving garden! Share the good work you do in your yard to benefit our natural environment.
Discover gardening in Fairfax County by visiting Green Spring Gardens or ‘Watch the Green Grow’ in your own yard and inspire others to help environmental stewardship.
Discover the untold stories and history’s hidden gems in Fairfax County Parks! Explore historic sites, take a guided tour or discover archeology and museum collections. Whether you have a sense of awe, a newfound appreciation for history, or desire to connect to cultural heritage, we have opportunities to delve into the narratives that have shaped our present and inspire our future.
Learn more about Heritage Conservation
Visit one of our many historical sites:
It’s no secret that Fairfax County residents love their parks! Each year thousands of residents join our community of volunteers, magnifying their talents and contributing to a better park system for all of us. Far more than just doing a good deed, volunteering is a way to develop skills, learn about career options, make professional contacts, socialize and have an impact on your community. The Park Authority has dozens of ways for volunteers to contribute, including:
Visit our Volunteer webpage for more information on ways you can get involved!
Grow your park community by becoming part of ours! It takes a community of thousands to build and maintain our parks and trails and to provide the exceptional experiences enjoyed by Fairfax County residents of all ages, abilities and interests. Whether you’re a high school teen looking for a summer job or a seasoned professional in search of a high-performing organization, the Fairfax County Park Authority has opportunities for you!