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Parks are an essential element of life to residents of Fairfax County. We love to enjoy nature, historic sites, trails, sports, fitness, aquatics, programs, classes, events and so much more offered in our parks. The Park Authority works to balance the park system to help make Fairfax County a healthy and unique place with over 24,000 acres of parkland in more than 400 parks. As we look to the future, Fairfax County will continue to grow and change... Growing employment centers will attract a varied workforce More people with diverse backgrounds will reside here Many areas will become more urban places Lifestyles will continue to evolve and leisure preferences will too The Great Parks, Great Communities planning process was created to incorporate public views on how the park system should be balanced in the future as communities across the County evolve. A three phased planning process will result in a long range plan to guide future park development and stewardship. Within these pages we describe the existing park system in 14 planning areas of the County and ask some probing questions about how the system should change in the future. The Existing Park System in your Area The park system includes a variety of park types, facilities and offerings. The park system varies around the County. Click on your area of the map to learn about your local park system and tell us how to make it even better. Public Participation Through workshops, events, e-mails and discussion groups, public input is key to helping us define the issues and prepare the park system for future changes. Tell us how you think future parks should grow and change too. Park Systems The major parts of the park system include a variety of resources on park land that include places and facilities for recreation and leisure activities, natural resources that support the County's ecology and cultural resources that represents the expansive history of human settlement from native American times to more recent events. Give us your input about these important park systems. RECREATION - PLAY YOUR WAY! Share your thoughts on RECREATION From indoor activities to outdoor sports, the recreation facilities in our parks provide opportunities for everyone to enjoy. As one of the major providers of athletic fields in the county, we strive to ensure everyone has access to get outside and play! The Park Authority also provides activities for new trends in recreation: Dog Parks, Skateboarding, Mountain Biking, Hiking , Horseback Riding Special Events!, Concerts, Rental Facilities, Lecture Series, Community Fairs Share your thoughts on RECREATION IT’S IN YOUR NATURE Share your thoughts on NATURAL RESOURCES Our natural areas provide havens for wildlife and contribute to our quality of life by cleaning water and air and providing pleasant areas to walk and relax.   From small urban green spaces, to large forests, stream valleys, vast wetlands and waterfalls, our natural areas offer something for everyone. Nature Centers: Hidden Oaks Hidden Pond Huntley Meadows Riverbend Walney Our nature centers provide opportunities for children and adults to learn explore Fairfax County’s natural resources in a safe and fun atmosphere.     Tell us what you think we can do to better take care of and interpret natural resources. Share your thoughts on NATURAL RESOURCES HISTORY IS ALIVE IN FAIRFAX Share your thoughts on CULTURAL RESOURCES Our Historic properties allow citizens to experience life in another century. Our prehistoric and historical archaeological sites provide clues to help understand the mysteries of the past. Civil War sites show the important role that Fairfax County played in the war. We are committed to preserve important historic and archaeological sites and promote stewardship through education, interpretation and resource protection. Share your thoughts on CULTURAL RESOURCES