Park Authority

With an award-winning system of 424 parks, the Fairfax County Park Authority relies on thousands of volunteers to support its programs and initiatives. It would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to operate this nationally recognized park system without their dedicated service.

The Park Authority is now accepting nominations for the annual Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Program, recognizing the outstanding contributions of volunteers. Online nominations are open for the following awards:

Elly Doyle Park Service Award & Youth/Student Award – These awards honor Ellamae “Elly” Doyle’s many years of service and accomplishments as a member and chairman of the Park Authority Board. During her tenure, Fairfax County’s park system expanded significantly, adding open space, new recreational facilities, and a strong commitment to preserving local natural and cultural resources. This award recognizes a volunteer or group of volunteers for their outstanding contributions to Fairfax County parks.

The Harold L. Strickland Partnership and Collaboration Award – Recognizes outstanding teamwork and cooperation in providing state-of-the-art facilities in Fairfax County parks, honoring the service and contributions of retired Park Board member Harold L. Strickland.

The Mayo Stuntz Cultural Stewardship Award – Honors historian, volunteer, and acclaimed author Mayo S. Stuntz by recognizing exceptional contributions to FCPA cultural preservation efforts.

The Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award – Recognizes individuals who exemplify the spirit of Sally B. Ormsby’s dedication to environmental stewardship and education about local natural resources.

The Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Award – Recognizes significant, tangible contributions made by individuals, organizations or businesses that enhance diversity systemwide and foster a culture of inclusion within parks and the surrounding community.

Nominations are due by Friday, May 22, 2026. The nomination form is available online at the 2026 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Nominations website. Nominations in all categories may be submitted by the general public, including Park Authority employees and volunteers.

Award recipients will be honored later this fall. Additional details will be posted on the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards webpage.

For more information or alternative formats of the application, please contact the Public Information Office via Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to a special informational meeting about the highly anticipated construction of a new Audrey Moore Rec Center. The meeting will be held on Saturday, May 2 at 2 p.m. at Wakefield Forest Elementary School, locate at 4011 Iva Lane in Fairfax, in the cafeteria. Residents are encouraged to attend to learn about the proposed updates and opportunities coming to this beloved community facility.

The meeting will provide residents with details about the renovation, including:

• Introduction to the project and Rec Center team.
• Overall renovation concept.
• Construction and reopening timeline.
• Overview of amenities and programmatic areas.
• Pottery considerations.

Community members who would like to participate in the public meeting in a language other than English may request interpretation services by emailing parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov by Friday, April 10.

Following the public meeting on May 2, FCPA will accept public comments on the proposed renovation plans for the facility online via the Audrey Moore Rec Center Renovation webpage for 30 days. All comments must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 5.

The Audrey Moore Rec Center was the first rec center constructed by the Fairfax County Park Authority in 1977 and has been a cornerstone of the community for almost 50 years. The 76,000-square-foot facility is undergoing a transformative renovation. The project scope includes an expanded fitness area and programing space; a warm water pool to serve people with disabilities, seniors and children; an Olympic-size competition pool; a child care center; and an expanded senior center in partnership with Neighborhood and Community Services.

Construction is expected to begin in late spring 2028, with an estimated completion in 2031.

For ongoing updates about the project and to access related materials, visit the Audrey Moore Rec Center Renovation webpage.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn more about the future of the Audrey Moore Rec Center and how it will continue to serve as a vital resource for Fairfax County residents for years to come.

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

This summer, junior golfers across Fairfax County will have a new opportunity to compete, improve and shine with the launch of the Golf Fairfax Junior Tournament Series, or GFJTS. Designed for players ages 10–18, the series offers structured competition and an opportunity to qualify and compete in a season-ending Series Championship.

GFJTS Series Details:

• Nine tournaments across six Fairfax County golf courses.
• Each player competes in five events.
• Divisions: ages 10–12, 13–15 and 16–18.
• Points are earned at each event and contribute to overall standings.
• Format modeled after the PGA TOUR’s FedEx Cup.
• Top performers qualify for the Series Championship.

Players will earn points based on their finishes in each tournament, with cumulative totals determining advancement to the Series Championship held at Laurel Hill Golf Club. Top finishers at each event will receive awards, and division champions will be recognized as the top junior golfers in Fairfax County, with their names etched on a perpetual trophy.

"We wanted to create an opportunity for junior golfers to experience competitive play in a fun, structured and affordable way," said Michael Mauk, PGA Professional at Pinecrest Golf Course and GFJTS co-director.

The series also helps players prepare for school competition, especially those planning to try out for middle or high school teams in the fall.

"High school golf is more than just playing for a team," said Tim Sample, GFJTS co-director, Golf Fairfax instructor and Head Varsity Golf Coach at Meridian High School. "It’s about building technical skills while learning to manage the pressure of competition week-to-week. Players in this series will enter tryouts more prepared and confident."

Registration for the Golf Fairfax Junior Tournament Series opened April 1 and runs through May 31, with participation capped at 200 players. The first tournament tees off June 23 at 10 a.m. at Jefferson District Golf Course.

For the full schedule, to learn more and to register, visit the Junior Tournament Series webpage.

The Fairfax County Park Authority was honored with a Governor’s Environmental Award in recognition of its energy upgrades at the Spring Hill Rec Center on March 24 at the Environment Virginia Symposium in Richmond. The awards program recognizes successful and innovative efforts that improve Virginia's environment.

"This award reinforces that the Park Authority is a trailblazing agency for energy savings and sustainability in Fairfax County and the Commonwealth of Virginia," said Keith Snyder, energy branch manager at the Fairfax County Park Authority. "The energy upgrades at Spring Hill Rec Center not only enhance the experience of rec center patrons but will also continue to produce environmental benefits and cost savings for the community for many years to come."

The Park Authority addressed issues related to the maintenance and performance of key systems at Spring Hill Rec Center, including the chiller, cooling tower and pool units. The project resulted in a 44% building energy reduction and $204,011 operation and maintenance savings over the first operating year. These upgrades helped the Park Authority meet the county’s Operational Energy Strategy goal of 25% energy usage reduction county-wide by 2030, a full five years ahead of schedule.

Since completion, the project has won several awards, including the 2025 U.S. Department of Energy Better Buildings: Better Project Award and Better Practice Award and Virginia Energy Efficiency Council Award.

Spring Hill Rec Center is located at 1239 Spring Hill Road in McLean. For more information, visit the Spring Hill Rec Center website or call 703-827-0989.

The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole offers a wide range employment opportunities this summer. From lifeguards and park attendants to cashiers and security staff, the Fairfax County Park Authority has begun the search for the more than 200 team members to operate the popular splash park in Reston, Virginia. Full position descriptions, lists of job duties and qualifications can be found on the Water Mine's employment webpage.

Water Mine will be hosting several in-person open hire sessions for all summer positions vacant at the Water Mine. These full-service sessions will allow applicants to interview, take a swim test (lifeguards only) and complete hiring paperwork if a job is offered. Walk-ins are accepted and preregistration is not required. Applicants should bring their banking information, social security card and an unexpired photo ID to complete hiring paperwork. Open hiring sessions are scheduled for the following dates:

• Wednesday, March 25 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Water Mine
• Thursday, April 2 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Water Mine
• Saturday, April 18 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Water Mine

Pay is competitive and starting rates are as follows:

• Lifeguards: starting at $16.87 per hour
• Security Staff: starting at $18.87 per hour
• Leadership Staff: starting at $17.87 per hour

Applications and details for the upcoming all-in-one open hire sessions are available on the Water Mine's employment webpage. 

The Water Mine is located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, Virginia. For information, contact the Water Mine at FCPAWaterMine@fairfaxcounty.gov; or call 703-246-5933.

Looking for a fun summer job where you can work outdoors and engage with the community? Lake Fairfax Park is now hiring lakefront staff for the summer season, operating from mid-June through mid-August.

Drop-in interviews at the Lake Fairfax Park Main Office will be held March 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointments are not necessary, so come by to explore job opportunities, drop off your resume, and complete an application – all in one visit!

Positions include camp counselors, program assistant and instructors. 

Why work at Lake Fairfax Park?

• Enjoy working outdoors on a beautiful lakefront.
• Gain valuable customer service and leadership experience.
• Be part of a fun, supportive team.
• Gain experience and transferable skills that look great on a resume.

Can’t make it to drop-in interviews? No worries! View jobs and apply now for open positions online on the Lake Fairfax Park jobs website. To view all employment opportunities with FCPA, visit the Park Authority’s Jobs website.

For more information, contact the Park Authority at FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-8792.

Lake Fairfax Park is located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston. For more information, visit the Lake Fairfax website or call 703-471-5415.

Spring is in the air and events to welcome the season are blooming all around Fairfax County. Find something for everyone in the family — from egg hunts to wildflower walks — and celebrate spring with Fairfax County Park Authority.

• Mini Golf Egg-plorations: Saturday, March 28, with times between 12:20 and 2:50 p.m., Oakmont Rec Center
• Baskets and Bunnies: Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Burke Lake Park (7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station)
• Baskets and Bunnies Egg Hunt with Sensory Friendly Times: Saturday, April 4, with times between 11:15 a.m. and 2 p.m., Burke Lake Park
• Bubbles & Bunnies: Saturday, April 4, with times between 9 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., Cub Run Rec Center (4630 Stonecroft Blvd., Chantilly)
• Sensory Friendly Bubbles & Bunnies: Saturday, April 4, 1:30-2:45 p.m., Cub Run Rec Center
• Easter Egg Hunt: Saturday, April 4. with times between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., Colvin Run Mill (10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls)
• Bluebells at the Bend: Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Riverbend Park (8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls)
• Eggsperiments: Saturday, April 11, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Hidden Oaks Nature Center (7701 Royce Street, Annandale)

Keep the celebrations going at Family Skate and Dance Nights at Franconia Rec Center (6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria) with themes celebrating St. Patrick’s Day on Saturday, March 21 and Enchanted Forest on Saturday, April 18. 

Stay up to date on all the exciting events coming your way by tuning in to the Park Authority’s event calendar.

The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a park activation and ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Mount Vernon Woods Park on Saturday, April 18 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The event will take place at Mount Vernon Woods Park, 4014 Fielding St. in Alexandria, and will feature activities for all ages.

Attendees can also enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment throughout the morning, including:

• Skateboard demonstrations and instruction with Fairfax Surf Shop.
• Soccer activities with Golden Boot Soccer.
• Community recreation for all ages.

"These spaces are vital to the health and vibrancy of our communities," said Jai Cole, executive director of the Fairfax County Park Authority. "Mount Vernon Woods Park reflects the Park Authority’s commitment to creating welcoming, accessible places where residents of all ages and abilities can gather, stay active and connect with nature."

To make the event accessible for nearby residents, the Fairfax County Department of Transportation will provide shuttle service between Gum Springs Community Center and Mount Vernon Woods Park from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Mount Vernon Woods Park is a completely new park designed to meet the recreational and wellness needs of a growing community. The thoughtfully designed space features an expansive open lawn play field, a multisport court that supports both futsal and basketball, an all-abilities playground designed for users of all ages, and a skate park developed with input from the surrounding community. The park also includes a fitness area, picnic pavilion, drinking fountain and passive seating areas set among newly installed landscaping.

For more information about the Fairfax County Park Authority, visit the Park Authority website. For questions, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Longer days, greener fairways and more chances to play are just around the corner. Get ready for the season and save during the Golf Fairfax Spring Pass Sale, March 19 to April 3. Stock up on rounds now and enjoy savings that make it even easier to play all season.

Golfers can purchase discounted passes at Burke Lake, Greendale, Jefferson, Laurel Hill (senior rounds only), Oakmont, Pinecrest and Twin Lakes golf courses.

Spring pass deals include:

• Get 25% off 15 rounds, 20% off 10 rounds, and 10% off 5 rounds. Pass savings are based on regular greens fees.
• Senior golfers (65+), buy 15 rounds and only pay for 14 rounds.
• Passes are available for 9 or 18 holes, for both weekend or weekday rounds.
• Golf passes are valid at the course where it was purchased for two years after the date of purchase.

Visit participating golf pro shops to purchase your passes.

For more information on the Spring Golf Pass Sale, visit the Golf passes webpage.

Looking for a fun summer job where you can make a difference? The Fairfax County Park Authority is now hiring camp counselors and camp directors for camps operating from mid-June through mid-August.

Apply now to help create an unforgettable summer for local kids while gaining valuable leadership experience and earning competitive pay. Applicants must be 18 years or older.

Camp staff lead activities such as sports, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures and games, while ensuring campers enjoy a safe, welcoming and engaging environment. It’s the perfect opportunity for people who enjoy working with children and want to be a positive role model.

Pay rates include:

• Camp Counselors: $16.87–$19.75 per hour, depending on experience, education and certifications
• Camp Directors: $20.04–$23.75 per hour, depending on experience, education and certifications

Camp directors oversee multiple camps and staff members at a single location.

Positions are available at the following locations:

• Audrey Moore Rec Center – Annandale
• Colvin Run Mill Park – Great Falls
• Franconia Rec Center – Franconia
• Frying Pan Farm Park – Herndon
• Lake Accotink Park – Springfield
• Lake Fairfax Park – Reston
• Oakmont Rec Center – Oakton
• South Run Rec Center – Springfield
• Spring Hill Rec Center – McLean
• George Washington Rec Center – Alexandria
• Huntley Meadows Rec Center – Alexandria
• Mount Vernon Rec Center – Alexandria
• Providence Rec Center – Falls Church

View full position descriptions and apply now on the Camps Job website.

For questions, contact fcpajobs@fairfaxcounty.gov.

To explore additional employment opportunities with the Fairfax County Park Authority, visit the Jobs website.