Park Authority

CONTACT INFORMATION: Open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday
703-324-8700 TTY 711
12055 Government Center Pkwy.
Fairfax, Virginia 22035
Jai Cole
Executive Director

Park News

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Get the latest information on what is happening at the Park Authority. Contact the Public Information Office for archived news items at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

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Laurel Hill and Twin Lakes Receive 2026 Weddy Awards

Wedding couple
Laurel Hill and Twin Lakes Golf Clubs have received the prestigious Weddy Award for Best Golf Club Venue, presented by Brides & Weddings Magazine. The 2026 Weddy Awards celebrate excellence in the wedding and event industry, recognizing businesses that deliver exceptional service, innovation and professionalism.
Laurel Hill and Twin Lakes Receive 2026 Weddy Awards

Play Smarter, Score Lower: Golf Course Strategy Clinic at Pinecrest

Valis Golf Learning Center
Winter is the perfect time to reflect on your game and sharpen your skills for the upcoming season. Pinecrest Golf Course invites golfers to a one-hour, indoor clinic held in the Valis Family Learning Center on Feb. 14 or Feb. 15.
Play Smarter, Score Lower: Golf Course Strategy Clinic at Pinecrest

Grow, Learn and Play at the Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools

Preschool
Young children who attend Fairfax County Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools grow, learn and play, all while building school-readiness. The Park Authority hosts preschool programs at three locations:
Grow, Learn and Play at the Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools

Making Memories at Park Authority Camps

Theater Camp
Enjoying laughter, embarking on immersive adventures, and building connections that last a lifetime — these are the ingredients of Fairfax County Park Authority camps.
Making Memories at Park Authority Camps

Drop-In Interviews for Seasonal Jobs Begin at Burke Lake Park

Burke Lake Park
If you’re looking for a seasonal job that gets you out from behind a desk and lets you work in a beautiful setting while building real-world skills, this is it. Spend your season at Burke Lake Park, one of Fairfax County’s most beautiful outdoor destinations!
Drop-In Interviews for Seasonal Jobs Begin at Burke Lake Park

Park Authority Seeks Input in Evaluating Resident Curator Applications for Historic Dranesville Tavern

dranesville tavern
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin evaluating applications for curatorship of the historic Dranesville Tavern, located in the Dranesville District at 11919 Leesburg Pike, Herndon.
Park Authority Seeks Input in Evaluating Resident Curator Applications for Historic Dranesville Tavern

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve To Close Temporarily for Urgent Sewer Repairs

Parks Notice
Beginning on Monday, Feb. 16, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve will be closed for an urgent sewer project to renew and rehabilitate the Scott's Run Siphon wastewater facility.
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve To Close Temporarily for Urgent Sewer Repairs

Celebrate Black History Month with Fairfax County Park Authority

Black History Month Logo
Honor Black history through meaningful programs that explore African American history, culture and lived experiences across Fairfax County.
Celebrate Black History Month with Fairfax County Park Authority

Rec Center Membership Sale Extended

mount vernon pool
Fairfax County Park Authority announces an extension to the current Rec Center membership sale through Tuesday, Feb. 10. With recent winter weather closures, the Park Authority wanted to provide ample time for those interested to secure their 15% discounts on annual membership purchases.
Rec Center Membership Sale Extended

Oakmont Named One of America’s Top 50 Public Ranges

Oakmont Golf Center
Oakmont Golf Center range was recognized as one of America’s Top 50 Public Ranges by Golf Range Magazine. Golf Range magazine is a publication of the Golf Range Association of America and the Professional Golf Association.
Oakmont Named One of America’s Top 50 Public Ranges

Welcome the Year of the Horse at Fairfax County’s Lunar New Year Celebration

Lunar New Year Celebration
Celebrate Lunar New Year with an evening of traditional music and dance, hands-on cultural activities, and Asian-inspired cuisine on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Twin Lakes Golf Course. 
Welcome the Year of the Horse at Fairfax County’s Lunar New Year Celebration

Observatory Park at Turner Farm Earns Prestigious International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Place Designation

Observatory Park at Turner Farm
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Observatory Park at Turner Farm has been designated an International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International. The designation recognizes the park’s commitment to protecting the night sky through responsible outdoor lighting, community partnerships and public education.
Observatory Park at Turner Farm Earns Prestigious International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Place Designation

Nathan Kennedy Named People’s Choice Award Winner in 2026 First Hike Contest

Credit Nathan Kennedy
The Fairfax County Park Authority is thrilled to announce Nathan Kennedy as the winner of the People’s Choice Award for the 2026 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest. His captivating photo, taken at Huntley Meadows Park, received the highest number of online votes submitted by residents from across the county. 
Nathan Kennedy Named People’s Choice Award Winner in 2026 First Hike Contest

Park Authority Now Accepting Vendor and Exhibitor Applications for 2026 Earth Day Fairfax Festival

Earth Day
Join us for Fairfax County’s largest Earth Day celebration!
Park Authority Now Accepting Vendor and Exhibitor Applications for 2026 Earth Day Fairfax Festival

Let the Good Times Roll at Upcoming Skate Nights

Family Skate Night
Don’t miss out on an enjoyable night out for the entire family — roll out to an upcoming Family Skate and Dance Night at Franconia Rec Center. These family friendly events feature fun themes every month in the Rec Center’s gym.
Let the Good Times Roll at Upcoming Skate Nights

Start the New Year with a Commitment to Health

two people on treadmill
The new year brings opportunities to start fresh and on the right track. Make a resolution to improve your health and wellness at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers.
Start the New Year with a Commitment to Health

Ready, Set, Register for Spring and Summer Camp

kid playing tennis
Prepare for laughter, learning and memories that last a lifetime with Fairfax County Park Authority camps. Back by popular demand, split registration for 2026 spring and summer camps returns. Watch the Camps video below:
Ready, Set, Register for Spring and Summer Camp

Park Authority Announces First Hike Photo Contest Awards and Opens Voting for the People’s Choice Award

first hike fairfax logo
Braving the cold, Fairfax County residents welcomed 2026 by getting outside. Hundreds of participants of all ages explored the Fairfax County Park Authority’s more than 420 parks and 334 miles of trails, capturing moments from their first hikes of the year for the 2026 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest.
Park Authority Announces First Hike Photo Contest Awards and Opens Voting for the People’s Choice Award

Park Authority To Host Public Meeting on Trail Project at Martin Luther King Jr. Park

Park News
The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a public meeting to present design plans for a trail that will provide access to tidal wetlands from Martin Luther King Jr. Park in the Gum Springs area of Alexandria, Virginia. The meeting will take place in person on Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Gum Springs Community Center, located at 8100 Fordson Road, and streamed online.
Park Authority To Host Public Meeting on Trail Project at Martin Luther King Jr. Park

FCPA Rec Centers Host Open Hire To Fill Lifeguard Positions

Lifeguard
Ready to dive into a rewarding job that makes a real impact in your community? The Fairfax County Park Authority is hiring part-time, year-round lifeguards at all nine FCPA Rec Centers across Fairfax County, and we’re making it easier to apply, interview and get hired.
FCPA Rec Centers Host Open Hire To Fill Lifeguard Positions

Park Authority Board Approves Grant for Westgrove Park Dog Area Improvements

Westgrove Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board voted to approve a Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program grant totaling $10,084.47 on Dec. 10, to support improvements at the Westgrove Park off-leash dog area. The total estimated cost for this improvement project is $20,168.94.
Park Authority Board Approves Grant for Westgrove Park Dog Area Improvements

Rec Center Open Houses: Connect with Community and Commit to Health

Rec Center Open House
Commit to your wellness in the New Year by becoming an annual member of Fairfax County Park Authority’s Rec Centers. Purchase membership during January to secure a 15% discount on the membership rate. Explore the amazing amenities that the Park Authority’s nine Rec Centers offer during the Open House event on Sunday, Jan. 4.
Rec Center Open Houses: Connect with Community and Commit to Health

Santa Returns to Lake Accotink Park For A Festive Community Celebration

Santa at Lake Accotink
Families, friends and neighbors are invited to Lake Accotink Park on Saturday, Dec. 20 at noon for the beloved holiday tradition when Santa Comes to Lake Accotink Park. This community favorite offers a lively outdoor experience for all ages, featuring holiday activities, photo opportunities, and seasonal fun! Attendees can enjoy a variety of cheerful holiday touches, including:
Santa Returns to Lake Accotink Park For A Festive Community Celebration

Where To Find Fairfax County Park Holiday Hours and Closure Notifications

Park News
With the winter holidays approaching, and the potential for inclement weather in the Washington metropolitan area, residents may be wondering how to stay informed about what’s open, what’s closed, and when schedule changes occur. The Fairfax County Park Authority offers several easy ways to stay up to date on holiday hours and weather-related closures.
Where To Find Fairfax County Park Holiday Hours and Closure Notifications

Winter Competition Heats Up at Pinecrest’s Trackman League

woman playing indoor golf
Competition heats up this winter at Pinecrest Golf Course, where golfers can take on world-class courses from the comfort of the Trackman indoor studio. Back for its second year, the Indoor Trackman League invites players to compete on the Trackman4 golf simulator inside Pinecrest’s dedicated simulator suite. The league will run from Jan.
Winter Competition Heats Up at Pinecrest’s Trackman League

Park Authority Appoints Conservation and Parks Leader as Deputy Director for Planning and Development

Nigel A. Fields
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the appointment of Nigel A. Fields to the position of deputy director for Planning and Development. Fields is a leader in conservation, park development and programming, and land use planning and management. He began his new role on Dec. 1 and succeeds Aimee Vosper, who is retiring from the Park Authority on Dec. 26 after 12 years of service.
Park Authority Appoints Conservation and Parks Leader as Deputy Director for Planning and Development

Make the Most of Winter with Events, Camps and Classes

playing chess
When the weather turns chilly, Fairfax County Park Authority provides many ways to stay active and entertained during the winter season — bring your family and friends out to our seasonal events, coordinate attendance at our winter camps and register for classes together.
Make the Most of Winter with Events, Camps and Classes

Turner Farmhouse Foundation To Host Annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Dec. 6

Turner Farmhouse
The Turner Farmhouse Foundation invites the community to its annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the historic Turner Farmhouse in Great Falls. The event is free, open to the public and includes onsite parking. Guests are encouraged to RSVP online; tickets are provided at no cost.
Turner Farmhouse Foundation To Host Annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Dec. 6

Lake Fairfax Park Named One of RV LIFE’s 'Best of the Best' Campgrounds for 2025

RV
Lake Fairfax Park has been named one of RV LIFE’s “Best of the Best” Campgrounds for 2025, placing it among the top 25% of campgrounds nationwide. The recognition reflects outstanding reviews, high satisfaction ratings and strong engagement from RV LIFE members, who continue to share glowing firsthand experiences at the park.
Lake Fairfax Park Named One of RV LIFE’s 'Best of the Best' Campgrounds for 2025

Celebrate the Holiday Season Fairfax County Park Authority Style

wreath
Join family, friends and neighbors at the parks this holiday season. With more than 50 holiday-themed activities and events to choose from, Fairfax County Park Authority has something for everyone — from wagon and train rides to candlelit tours and, of course, Santa himself! Here are just a few highlights:
Celebrate the Holiday Season Fairfax County Park Authority Style

Step Into the New Year with First Hike Fairfax 2026

first hike fairfax logo
Start 2026 on the right foot with the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation’s annual First Hike Photo Contest! Community members of all ages and abilities are invited to join the fun and explore the beauty of Fairfax County parks.
Step Into the New Year with First Hike Fairfax 2026

Conquer the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K

Burke Lake Race
Channel your alter ego and achieve the ultimate glory by conquering the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K. Whether you gravitate towards the light side or dark side, all are invited to join the race at Burke Lake Park on Saturday, May 2.
Conquer the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K

Public Comment Period Extended for Proposed 2026 Park Authority Fee Schedule

Park News
Recognizing the importance of community participation, the Park Authority Board is seeking public input to ensure the proposed 2026 Fee Schedule reflects the priorities of Fairfax County residents. To provide additional time for community members to share their perspectives, the public comment period has been extended to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4.
Public Comment Period Extended for Proposed 2026 Park Authority Fee Schedule

Boogie Like a Beaver! Award-Packed 5K Returns to Lake Accotink

lake accotink Park
The Beaver Boogie 5K is back! Join the Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) on Saturday, Nov. 29 for the third-annual fun run and walk at Lake Accotink Park.
Boogie Like a Beaver! Award-Packed 5K Returns to Lake Accotink

Park Authority to Host Public Meeting on Peake Family Cemetery Survey

Park Authority to Host Public Meeting on Peake Family Cemetery Survey
Park Authority to Host Public Meeting on Peake Family Cemetery Survey

More Golf for Less — The Fall Golf Pass Sale Is Back

Golfers
Unlock the best golf deals of the year with Golf Fairfax. Enjoy seasonal savings, year-round play during the Fall Pass Sale happening from Nov. 15 to Nov. 28. Now is the perfect time to plan your visit and save, stock up for next season or surprise a golfer with a great gift. Tee Up for Pass Deals:
More Golf for Less — The Fall Golf Pass Sale Is Back

George Washington Rec Center Announces Updated Operating Hours Starting Jan. 2

FAcility update
Updated Dec. 22. The George Washington Rec Center is updating its operating hours starting Friday, Jan. 2. The new schedule provides access for fitness and recreation opportunities throughout the week while accommodating additional facility needs.
George Washington Rec Center Announces Updated Operating Hours Starting Jan. 2

Park Authority Announces Lively Lineup of Activities for Mount Vernon Rec Center Event

Mount Vernon Rec Center
Celebrate with friends and neighbors at the free Mount Vernon Rec Center grand reopening event on Saturday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fairfax County Park Authority invites everyone to this family-friendly event to enjoy this fresh, new facility and try its new amenities. The Rec Center is located at 2017 Belle View Blvd. in Alexandria.
Park Authority Announces Lively Lineup of Activities for Mount Vernon Rec Center Event

Rec Centers Welcome High School Swim and Dive Teams

students swimming
Fairfax County Public School high school teams head back to Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers in November. Swim and dive teams will be using Rec Center pools through February.
Rec Centers Welcome High School Swim and Dive Teams

Farmers Markets Offer Extra Produce Benefits for SNAP Shoppers During Federal Government Shutdown

Snap benefit update
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) and its community partners are working to help ensure community members have access to fresh, healthy food throughout November, as the federal government shutdown continues to affect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Farmers Markets Offer Extra Produce Benefits for SNAP Shoppers During Federal Government Shutdown

Dogue Creek Stream Restoration Project Launches at Greendale Golf Course

Greendale Golf Course
Golf Fairfax is pleased to share details about the upcoming Dogue Creek Stream Restoration Project at Greendale Golf Course, an initiative led by the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) in collaboration with Fairfax County Park Authority.
Dogue Creek Stream Restoration Project Launches at Greendale Golf Course

Fairfax County Park Authority Invites Public Feedback on Proposed 2026 Fee Schedule

Park News
The Fairfax County Park Authority presented the proposed 2026 Park Authority Fee Schedule for consideration at the Oct. 22 meeting of the Park Authority Board, kicking off an essential community engagement process.
Fairfax County Park Authority Invites Public Feedback on Proposed 2026 Fee Schedule

Plunge Into Aquatic Fitness With Aqua Flex

People in the swimming pool
Take the plunge into aquatic fitness with Fairfax County Park Authority’s Aqua Flex pass and annual event this fall.
Plunge Into Aquatic Fitness With Aqua Flex

New Greenbriar Park Pickleball Courts Now Open

New Greenbriar Park Pickleball Courts Now Open
The Fairfax County Park Authority recently built five new pickleball courts that are now open at Greenbriar Park. The park offers convenient access for nearby neighborhoods, ample parking, restroom facilities and ADA accessibility. It also has perimeter fencing, gates to allow for controlled access and shaded seating areas. 
New Greenbriar Park Pickleball Courts Now Open

Park Authority Welcomes Community To Climb, Skate and Celebrate at Mount Vernon Rec Center Grand Reopening on Nov. 15

Mount Vernon Rec Center
WHAT: Fairfax County Park Authority will host a grand reopening event at Mount Vernon Rec Center. The free celebration will feature family-friendly activities, demonstrations in each area of the Rec Center, giveaways and games.
Park Authority Welcomes Community To Climb, Skate and Celebrate at Mount Vernon Rec Center Grand Reopening on Nov. 15

Park Authority Honored with Energy Efficiency Award for Advancements at Spring Hill Rec Center

People getting an award
The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Virginia Energy Efficiency Council award in recognition of its exceptional energy efficiency improvements at the Spring Hill Rec Center. This honor highlights FCPA’s leadership in sustainability and its commitment to reducing energy consumption across its facilities.
Park Authority Honored with Energy Efficiency Award for Advancements at Spring Hill Rec Center

The Stars Are Back at Turner Farm — Join Us or Become a Sponsor at Observatory Park

Observatory Park at Turner Farm
Observatory Park at Turner Farm is kicking off a new season of monthly astronomy programs and events designed to bring the night sky to life for registrants of all ages. Cool evenings in fall and winter are the perfect backdrop for stargazing, hands-on learning and unforgettable community experiences. Program highlights:
The Stars Are Back at Turner Farm — Join Us or Become a Sponsor at Observatory Park

Halloween Student Appreciation Day Tees Up at Laurel Hill

Halloween Student Appreciation Day Tees Up at Laurel Hill
Golf Fairfax invites golfers of all ages to Laurel Hill Golf Club for a spook-tacular celebration at the Eisman Golf Academy Student Appreciation Day, on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 1 to 5 p.m.
Halloween Student Appreciation Day Tees Up at Laurel Hill

Fairfax County Park Authority Expands Wakefield Park Pickleball Complex

Wakefield pickleball
The Fairfax County Park Authority has completed major upgrades at Wakefield Park, creating the county’s largest pickleball complex. The project added six new dedicated pickleball courts, bringing the total to eight and expanding recreation opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels.
Fairfax County Park Authority Expands Wakefield Park Pickleball Complex

Park Authority To Begin Application Review Process for Curatorship at Historic Lahey Lost Valley House

Lahey lost valley
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin evaluating a Resident Curator Program application for curatorship of the historic Lahey Lost Valley house, located at 9750 Brookmeadow Drive, Vienna. The assessment process will include livestreamed work sessions, a public meeting and a public comment period.
Park Authority To Begin Application Review Process for Curatorship at Historic Lahey Lost Valley House

 

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