Park Authority

The Fairfax County Park Authority will lower water levels at Lake Accotink after Labor Day in order to complete an assessment of the dam. The assessment is being conducted to evaluate the structure to ensure its integrity and identify any maintenance or repair needs.

The marina and dam area will remain fenced, with warning signs in place to remind park patrons to keep off the exposed lakebed for safety reasons, for several weeks. The evaluation is expected to be finished this fall. Then, it may take several weeks for the lake to return to its normal level, depending on regional precipitation.

In spring 2025, when the Park Authority attempted to lower the lake and drain the stilling basin, maintenance staff discovered that the sluice gate could not close properly, preventing us from safely draining the basin. Divers were called back to inspect the gate and found that the stem was damaged, which would not allow reliable operation. The Park Authority paused lowering operations over the summer to avoid conflicting with the recreation season after a newly fabricated stem was created and installed.

Lake Accotink is located at 7500 Accotink Park Road in Springfield, Virginia. For more information about the project, please contact the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Looking for a way to make a difference in your neighborhood? Protect your local parks and make friends while you’re at it -- visit the Invasive Management Area Program website and become volunteer!

Over the past few decades, non-native invasive plants have been rapidly altering our landscapes. They outcompete native plants, disrupting the ecosystem food chain and threatening birds and pollinators. Our parks need YOU to help protect native species and preserve our beloved natural areas.

The IMA volunteer program is a community project that aims to reduce invasive plants in our parks. Every week, IMA volunteers gather in parks across the county to remove invasives and replant native species.

IMA volunteers can:

• Have fun socializing with like-minded individuals
• Spend time outside and exercise
• Learn about local flora and fauna
• Protect native habitats, plants and animals
• Earn service hours
• Make a positive impact on the community for future generations to enjoy

"Our IMA Site Leaders are truly impressive and dedicated volunteers. They remove invasive plants by hand to protect trees, restore native habitats and are deeply committed to protecting natural areas while inspiring their communities to do the same," Gloria Medina, IMA Program Manager said.

To get started as an IMA volunteer, find an upcoming workday near you on the IMA calendar. Scouts, students, adults and groups are all welcome. Bring your family and friends for a rewarding day out in the parks. Even just a few hours on one day makes a difference!

Invasive Management Area funding is provided by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Environmental Improve Plan in support of the board’s Environmental Vision. The County’s Environmental Vision helps to guide environmental sustainability initiatives, strategies, policies and programs. Visit the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors website for more details.

The IMA program is also supported in part by the Fairfax County Park Foundation. The Fairfax County Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3), supports the Fairfax County Park Authority by raising private funds, obtaining grants, and creating partnerships that supplement tax dollars to meet our community’s needs for park land, facilities and services. Visit the Fairfax County Park Foundation website for more information or call 703-324-8582.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the start of Phase 2 of renovations at Mount Vernon Woods Park, bringing a brand-new skate park to the community. Construction will begin in September 2025 and is anticipated to be completed this winter.

"Mount Vernon Woods Park has already become a vibrant community hub, and the addition of a skate park will make it an even more dynamic destination for residents of all ages," FCPA Executive Director Jai Cole said. "We’re grateful to the community members who shared their input and helped us shape this exciting new feature."

The new skate park was designed with valuable input from the community, following a public comment period in fall 2024. Resident feedback helped shape the design to ensure the new space reflects the needs and interests of local skaters and families.

Phase 1 of the Mount Vernon Woods Park renovation, completed in early 2025, introduced a wide range of new amenities, including a playground, fitness area, multisport court, soccer field, picnic shelter and parking lot. Phase 2 builds on these improvements, creating even more opportunities for recreation and connection.

Spohn Ranch, a nationally recognized skate park design and construction firm, will lead the Phase 2 project. During construction, residents may notice occasional construction traffic along Fielding Street.

Mount Vernon Woods Park is located at 4014 Fielding Street in Alexandria. For more information, please contact the Park Authority Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the upcoming construction of five brand-new, dedicated pickleball courts at Greenbriar Park. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity across Fairfax County, the Park Authority is committed to enhancing recreational offerings, and this addition will create more opportunities for recreation, friendly competition and community play.

After careful study, Greenbriar Park was selected as the ideal location thanks to its accessibility to nearby neighborhoods, ample parking, restroom facilities, ADA accessibility, and naturalized buffer from nearby homes.

Construction is scheduled to begin in late August 2025, with the courts expected to be ready for play this fall. During construction, all park amenities will remain open, though a portion of the Melville Lane parking lot will be temporarily closed. Residents can also expect some occasional construction traffic along Melville Lane as the contractor, American Tennis Courts (ATC), completes the improvements.

The project will remove a small number of parking spaces to make way for the new courts, which will feature perimeter fencing and gated access for safe, dedicated play.

To learn more about this project and to stay updated on its progress, visit the Greenbriar Park Pickleball Courts PublicInput project page.

Greenbriar Park is located at 4600 Stringfellow Road in Fairfax. For more information, please contact the Park Authority Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Step into the fascinating world of bugs at Bug Fest — Lake Accotink Park’s annual celebration of all things that crawl, fly and buzz! Join us on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the McLaren Sargent Pavilion for a day packed with discovery, fun and outdoor adventure.

Perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages, Bug Fest invites you to explore the vital role insects play in our environment through hands-on activities, live demonstrations and engaging presentations.

Here’s what you can experience:

• Insect Safaris – Embark on a guided trek to find bugs in their natural habitat.
• Live Bug Encounters – Meet fascinating insects up close.
• Insect Collections & Log Rolling – Discover hidden critters by turning over logs and inspecting natural habitats.
• Soil Stations & Bug Walks – Explore how bugs contribute to healthy ecosystems.
• Critter Talks – Hear from experts who study and care for insects.
• Bug Science & Crafts – Create your own insect-inspired art and try interactive science activities.

Bug Fest offers an exciting and educational way to connect with nature through hands-on exploration, live insect encounters and engaging activities for all ages.

Admission is $10 per person in advance and $12 at the door. Advance ticket sales end on Friday, Sept. 19 at 11:59 p.m. In-person ticket sales begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20. All children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Parking is located at 5660 Heming Ave. in Springfield.

Register for Bug Fest

View the Bug Fest flyer

Lake Accotink Park is located at 7500 Lake Accotink Park Road, Springfield. For more information, visit the Lake Accotink Park website or call 703-569-3464.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Michael T. Reynolds (Mike) has been appointed by Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik to represent the Providence District on the Park Authority Board. Reynolds will fill the seat following the tenure of previous members and brings decades of distinguished public service and leadership in national park management to the role.

Reynolds recently retired in 2024 as the Deputy Director of External and Congressional Affairs for the National Park Service, concluding nearly 40 years of leadership across many of the nation’s iconic parks, including Yosemite, Cape Cod, Fire Island, Mojave and Olympic national parks. Throughout his career, he also held key regional leadership roles in Denver, Philadelphia and Omaha, and served in multiple senior positions at NPS headquarters in Washington, D.C., including acting director of the agency in 2017.

With academic credentials spanning environmental studies, a master’s degree in business administration, a certificate in strategic leadership from Cornell University and senior executive fellowship at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, Reynolds brings a unique combination of expertise in environmental stewardship, organizational leadership and strategic planning. He is also a LEED Green Associate and actively serves as a board member for the Chesapeake Conservancy while engaging locally in his Fairfax County neighborhood civic association.

Reynolds' extensive experience in managing complex operations, negotiating diverse stakeholder interests and advancing conservation, sustainability and climate resiliency aligns perfectly with the Park Authority’s mission. Passionate about connecting parks to all populations and adapting them for modern challenges while preserving their natural integrity, Reynolds looks forward to serving Fairfax County’s citizens and supporting the continued stewardship of their treasured park system.

Reynolds will be up for reappointment in December 2028.

For questions, contact the Public Information Office at ParkMail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Projects at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers will result in temporary closures for pools and spas.

Franconia Rec Center

Facility renovations at this facility, located at 6601 Telegraph Road in Alexandria, require the following temporary closures:

• Pool, Spa, Family Change Room and upper level: Closed from Aug. 18 to Sept. 6
• Racquetball Courts: Closed from Aug. 18 to Sept. 16 
• Fitness Center: Closed from Aug. 18 to Sept. 18 (date subject to change)
• Full Building and Parking Lot Closures:
  • Wednesday, Aug. 20, until 4 p.m. (backup day Thursday, Aug. 21)
  • Wednesday, Sept. 3, until 4 p.m. (backup day Thursday, Sept. 4)

Visit the Franconia Rec Center facility project webpage for more information.

Oakmont Rec Center

The pool at this facility, located at 3200 Jermantown Road in Oakton, will close for emergency repair:

• Pool Closed: 4 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 17 to Wednesday, Aug. 20

Audrey Moore, Cub Run, George Washington and Spring Hill Rec Centers

Pools and spas at the following facilities will be temporarily closed for a deep system cleaning and maintenance that occurs every two years:

• Audrey Moore Rec Center (8100 Braddock Road, Annandale)
  • Pool Closed: Monday, Aug. 18 to Sunday, Sept. 14
• Cub Run Rec Center (4630 Stonecroft Blvd., Chantilly)
  • Competition Pool Closed: Monday, Aug. 18 to Friday, Sept. 12
• George Washington Rec Center (8426 Old Mount Vernon Road, Alexandria)
  • Pool and Spa Closed: Wednesday, Sept. 3 to Saturday, Sept. 13
• Spring Hill Rec Center (1239 Spring Hill Road, McLean)
  • Pool and Spa Closed: Saturday, Aug. 16 to Monday, Sept. 1

The Park Authority is coordinating this work to minimize any inconvenience and deliver an improved experience for Rec Center members. Membership is valid at any Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Center. Please find more information about alternate pool and spa locations by visiting the Park Authority Rec Center website.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding as our team works hard to complete this necessary work quickly and efficiently,” says Marc Barton, Aquatics Section Manager for Fairfax County Park Authority.

For more information, please contact the Park Authority’s Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards, recognizing exceptional service and contributions to the county’s parks, natural and cultural resources and recreational opportunities.

The awardees will be honored during a recognition ceremony this September sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

Established in 1988, the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards honor the legacy of Ellamae “Elly” Doyle, whose leadership as a member and chairman of the Park Authority Board helped expand the park system, preserve open space and enhance recreational facilities across Fairfax County.

This year’s honorees were selected for their dedication, volunteerism and commitment to protecting the county’s natural, cultural and historic resources. Awards are presented in five Fairfax County Park Authority categories, along with three Eakin Awards from the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

The Elly Doyle Park Service Awards will go to:

• Tim Bowers: Since 2017, Bowers has led the Edible Garden project at Green Spring Gardens, guiding more than 40 Master Gardeners to grow and donate more than 8,000 pounds of produce to local food banks. He’s developed workshops, sustainable practices and community partnerships that enrich education and food access.
• Carolyn Gamble: Gamble retired as Huntley Meadows Park Site Manager after 30 years and has volunteered for more than a decade supporting the park and Historic Huntley. She created a major exhibit for their anniversaries and co-led efforts to increase park funding, strengthening community connection and advocacy.

Elly Doyle Special Recognition Awards

• Cynthia Glakas: A Frying Pan Farm Park volunteer since 2024, Glakas serves as a docent, carousel operator and wagon driver. Her flexible, welcoming approach enhances visitor experiences, and she contributes personal crafts to enrich the historic setting.
• Paul Gross: Founder of Friends of Royal Lake, Gross has led community-driven improvements and advocacy for more than 10 years, resulting in new trails, park upgrades and environmental restoration. He also volunteers at Twin Lakes Golf Course, helping manage local leagues and events.
• Brian Keith: Keith has volunteered at Sully Historic Site since 2019, contributing more than 1,400 hours to trail maintenance and historic craft programs, enriching educational offerings with his expertise in traditional trades.
• Christina Tyler Wenks: Wenks led the successful 296-page Dark Sky designation application for Observatory Park at Turner Farm, dedicating more than 200 hours. As a NASA Solar System Ambassador, she promotes dark sky education and environmental awareness regionally.

Harold L. Strickland Partnership and Collaboration Award

• Marc Kohn: Kohn, president of USA Synthetic Rinks, has donated resources and educational support valued at more than $10,000 to Fairfax County Park Authority programs, including Earth Day events and youth recreation, exemplifying strong partnership and collaboration.

Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award

• Sara Holtz: Founder of the IMA site at Difficult Run Stream Valley Park, Holtz has led more than 230 volunteer sessions since 2017, focusing on invasive removal, native planting, youth mentorship and community education to protect Fairfax County’s natural resources.

Mayo Stuntz Cultural Stewardship Award

• Mary Lipsey: Lipsey has preserved and promoted Lake Accotink Park’s history through research, educational materials, artifact cataloging and youth history camps, demonstrating deep commitment to cultural stewardship.

Chairman’s Choice Awards

• Ken Quincy: Quincy served on the Park Authority Board (2007–2025), chairing key committees and leading civic efforts. His leadership ensured responsible park stewardship and expansion of recreational amenities across Fairfax County.
• Aimee L. Vosper: As Deputy Director, Vosper oversees key Park Authority divisions and fosters partnerships with the Park Foundation, advancing environmental stewardship and enhancing recreational opportunities countywide.

Eakin Philanthropy Awards (Presented by the Fairfax County Park Foundation)

• Helen L. Kafka: Kafka’s philanthropy supports numerous park outreach programs. As a Legacy Circle member, her estate gifts fund key initiatives and the Forever Fund, sustaining Fairfax County parks long-term.
• Pohanka Automotive & Scott A. & Phyllis P. Crabtree Family Foundation: These partners enrich Fairfax County parks through Summer Entertainment Series sponsorships and Wonder Wagon vehicle donations, helping expand environmental education and community access.
• McLean Central Park Playground Team: This grassroots group partnered with the Fairfax County Park Foundation to raise nearly $500,000 for playground renovation through community fundraising and events. Special thanks to team leaders for their dedication.

For questions, contact the Public Information Office at ParkMail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

About the Fairfax County Park Foundation

The Fairfax County Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, supports the Fairfax County Park Authority by raising private funds, securing grants, and building partnerships that supplement tax dollars to meet the community’s needs for park land, facilities, and services. Visit the foundation’s website or call 703-324-8582 for more information.

August is National Golf Month, and Golf Fairfax is teeing up a hole-lot of ways to celebrate—on the course, at the range and even indoors. Whether you're chasing your first birdie, trying something new or sharpening your short game, this is your chance to connect and fall in love with golf all over again. With family specials, exclusive offers and more, there’s never been a better time to get out and play!

Here’s our top picks for celebrating National Golf Month at Golf Fairfax:

• Make it a family affair: Kids 17 and under play FREE with a paying adult at Burke Lake Golf Center, Jefferson Golf Course, Oakmont Golf Center, Pinecrest Golf Course. Valid Monday through Friday all day and weekends after 1 p.m. in August. Limit one child per paying adult.
• Nothing like a little friendly competition: Play the 18-hole Jefferson Cup - Club Championship on Aug. 16 and test your skills in a spirited showdown with friends.
• Cool off, play on! Perfect your swing from the comfort of the indoor practice bays or Trackman room golf simulator at Pinecrest Golf Course—get real-time analytics on swing, club speed, ball flight and more!
• Tee up with tasty treats: Power up your game with Sim and Snack specials from the Pinecrest Grill while you test your skills at the indoor TrackMan 4 Simulator.
• Find your home on the range: Our ranges are the par-fect place to practice, and don’t just take our word for it! Burke Lake and Oakmont were ranked in the top 50 Public Ranges in U.S. by Golf Range Association of America. Save 35% on 40 range ball bucket pricing with the Range Flex Pass.
• Three cheers for ice-cold beers! Stay cool and refreshed with our Buckets & Beer Specials, the ultimate summer combo, at the Burke Lake, Oakmont and Twin Lakes driving ranges.
• Up your game: Are you ready to embark on a world class golf education? PGA, LPGA and USGTF professionals are eager to share their expertise with beginner and experienced golfers alike. Choose from group classes or private lessons at Pinecrest, Burke Lake, Oakmont, Twin Lakes and Laurel Hill.
• Give the gift of golf: Golf gift cards can be purchased at Fairfax County Park Authority Golf Course Pro Shops and make the perfect gift. One card works for all seven golf courses so you can explore a new course or play your favorite.
• Queens on the green! Women and Golf Fairfax is your go-to-spot to find ladies-only classes, women’s leagues, tournaments, private lessons and more. Come to sharpen your game, stay for the good vibes.
• Stay in the loop: Download the FREE Golf Fairfax Mobile App and sign up for Golf Fairfax’s E-News Club. Book tee times with ease and never miss information on discounts, promotions, tournaments, classes and special events throughout the year.

Golf Fairfax’s seven courses and four driving ranges are located conveniently throughout the county. Courses are open year-round, weather permitting, and are owned and operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority.

To learn more about National Golf Month and ways to celebrate with Golf Fairfax, visit the Golf Fairfax website.