Park Authority

The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Historic Huntley, a 19th-century villa near the entrance to Huntley Meadows Park, has been named to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, a program of the National Park Service. The Network to Freedom works to honor, preserve and promote the history of resistance to enslavement through escape and flight.

Historic Huntley preserves the stories of three enslaved men, Bob, Sam Humphreys and Sandy, who risked everything on their journey to freedom in the 1820s and 1830s. To attain the new designation, Park Authority staff documented Huntley’s role as a plantation in Fairfax County and the lives of the enslaved men who escaped.

“We can only imagine the courage required to face an abyss of uncertainty and danger when one feels the fire of freedom in their bones,” said Nigel Fields, deputy director for planning and development at the Park Authority. “These stories continue to inspire freedom seekers today. Historic Huntley’s history contributes to the evidence of a nationwide, persistent and irrepressible resistance to chattel enslavement in the United States.”

Established through an Act of Congress in 1998, the Network to Freedom program works in collaboration with local, state and federal entities, as well as individuals and organizations to create a "network" of sites, facilities and programs with a verifiable connection to the Underground Railroad. These sites are not limited to safehouses and may include any location that played a role in a freedom seeker’s journey.

By joining the Network to Freedom, the Park Authority, as the property owner and operator, has access to new opportunities for grant funding that may be used for preservation, restoration and interpretation of the site. This designation also allows for network sites to draw support for preservation and commemorative efforts.

Historic Huntley is the third historic Park Authority site to attain this designation. Sully Historic Site was added in 2003, and Riverbend Park joined the network in 2011.

About the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

The Network to Freedom’s mission is to honor, preserve and promote the history of resistance to enslavement through escape and flight. The network advances the idea that all human beings embrace the right to self-determination and freedom from oppression. The program is a catalyst for innovation and partnerships that share the diverse legacy of the Underground Railroad across generations. Learn more at the Park Service's Network to Freedom website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that Patriot Park North has been recognized as the best All-Star Outdoor Venue by SportsEvents Media Group in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards. This honor celebrates outstanding outdoor facilities that consistently deliver top-tier amenities, service and playability for athletes and event organizers alike.

Patriot Park North is a dynamic sports complex for competitive baseball and softball. Since opening in 2023, the park has been buzzing with tournaments, camps, exhibitions and other events. It has welcomed players, coaches and fans for 91 tournaments and will host 38 more from March through November 2026. Last year, Patriot Park North generated nearly $500,000 in income and $5.75 million in economic activity in Fairfax County.

“This award reflects the Fairfax County Park Authority’s commitment to recreational excellence in every aspect of our park system,” said Jai Cole, executive director of the Fairfax County Park Authority. “Patriot Park North is more than a sports complex. It’s a gathering place that supports tourism and economic vitality and showcases the gold standard of athletic facilities and service in Fairfax County. I want to thank the Park Authority Board and staff, our county leaders, and all who have helped make Patriot Park a regional destination for unforgettable events and experiences.”

“I am thrilled that Patriot Park North has been recognized with the SportsEvents magazine Readers’ Choice Award for All-Star Outdoor Venue,” said Jeff McKay, chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. “This facility reflects the county’s commitment to high-quality recreational opportunities and the Park Authority’s excellent work in creating spaces that bring our community together.”

“Patriot Park North’s success is just the tip of the iceberg of Fairfax County’s potential in the sports tourism market,” said Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity, chairman of the Fairfax County Sports Tourism Task Force.

“Not only has the facility elevated Fairfax County’s reputation as a premier destination for youth and amateur sports but indeed contributes greatly to the local economy through direct economic impact,” said Barry H. Biggar, president and CEO of Visit Fairfax. “Each tournament brings families, athletes and visitors to our destination, who in turn support our local businesses, which create lasting benefits well beyond the playing fields.”

For more information about Patriot Park North and to take a virtual 360 tour of the facility, visit the Patriot Park North webpage. Additional inquires can be directed to the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

About Fairfax County Park Authority

Fairfax County Park Authority enriches the quality of life for all members of the community through an enduring park system that provides a healthy environment, preserves natural and cultural heritage, offers inspiring recreational experiences and promotes healthy lifestyles. Learn more about our parks, rec centers, golf courses, nature centers, and historic sites by visiting the Fairfax County Park Authority website.

About Patriot Park North

Patriot Park North is an athletic facility in Fairfax, Virginia, for baseball and softball that features six lighted, synthetic turf fields. Designed with both performance and experience in mind, the facility offers on-site concessions, flexible fencing options, portable pitching mounds and generous warm-up areas to support seamless tournament operations. Players benefit from covered, fully wrapped dugouts and electronic scoreboards on every field, while spectators can take in the action from comfortable viewing areas and a press box featuring a 360-degree observation deck. A baseball- and softball-themed playground further enhances the atmosphere, creating an engaging and family-friendly environment that extends beyond the game itself.

In addition to its state-of-the-art facilities, Patriot Park North is surrounded by numerous Fair-fax County Park Authority parks and experiences, including scenic trails, historic sites, nature centers and recreational amenities.

For more information, visit the Patriot Park North webpage.
 

Whether you gravitate toward the light or the dark, there’s a spot for you at the finish line of the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K. Suit up and join this thrilling community event that takes place at Burke Lake Park on Saturday, May 2.

Fairfax County Park Authority brings this annual event back with opportunities for the entire family. The event, set to upbeat, themed music, starts at 7:30 a.m. Begin with a group stretch and warm-up session. Walk, run or roll in the family friendly 5K (3.1 miles) that follows a tree-lined, paved road that is wheelchair and stroller accessible through the park. Step up to the challenge by participating in a competitive 10K that leads through a 6.2-mile wooded trail that circles the lake. Participants in the 10K must be able to maintain faster than a 17-minute mile and complete the course by 9:30 a.m. 

Take on this trek to earn a specially designed shirt and commemorative medal reflecting the race theme. The overall top finishers and top finishers in different age groups for both the 5K and 10K earn awards and bragging rights. Race participants can also register their children to participate in a Tots Dash (ages 2 to 5) and Kids Dash (ages 6 to 10) — short runs to the finish line for children of the 5K/10K participants.

Come out to cheer for the runners and enjoy the post-race refreshments and party. Please note that all race participants and spectators must wait until the race is over before leaving the park, since roadways will be closed for the runners.

A portion of the proceeds from the event goes to the Fairfax County Park Foundation to support beautiful Burke Lake Park. Opportunities to sponsor the popular 5K/10K Healthy Strides race are still available through the Fairfax County Park Foundation at Healthy Strides – Fairfax County Park Foundation.

Fairfax County Park Foundation also supports the Park Authority’s Healthy Strides program -- which offers free online fitness classes -- with monetary donations. Explore all the ways to become a partner and give support by visiting the Park Foundation's Healthy Strides website.

Burke Lake Park is located at 7315 Ox Road in Fairfax Station. For more information, visit the Burke Lake Park website or call 703-323-6600.

About 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. For more information, visit the Park Foundation website or call 703-324-8582.

A world of new opportunities awaits to get active, enjoy your favorite hobby, learn new skills and connect with community in Fairfax County Park Authority classes. Explore the numerous classes available for registration now in the newly released spring 2026 issue of Parktakes magazine.

Grow skills with the assistance of our trained instructors across a variety of categories:

• Adapted Recreation
• Aquatics
• Children’s Corner
• Dance
• Equestrian
• Exercise and Physical Fitness
• Farm
• Fine Arts and Crafts
• Gardening
• Golf
• History
• Ice Skating
• Martial Arts and Self-Defense
• Nature
• Outdoor Recreation
• Performing Arts
• Pets
• Science and Technology
• Sports and Leagues
• Xtras

Jump into swimming, embark on a new adventure in the outdoors, dig into gardening, put your paintbrush to canvas, perfect your golf swing, get hands-on with history, glide onto the ice, groove on the dance floor, join the game, and so much more.

Register by Friday, March 6 to save $8 on most classes. Learn more by visiting the Parktakes website.

In a milestone year for the Fairfax County Park Authority, the agency is celebrating its 75th Anniversary and the 20th Anniversary of the Invasive Management Area Volunteer Program.

The IMA Volunteer Program trains and empowers community volunteers to restore parklands, protect wildlife habitats and remove invasive plants that threaten Fairfax County’s forests, meadows and waterways. What began in 2006 as a community-based effort has grown into one of the region’s most impactful, volunteer-driven conservation programs — a powerful example of community-powered stewardship in action.

The program has grown from 10 dedicated IMA volunteer site leaders guiding 400 volunteers to 56 Site Leaders steering more than 4,000 volunteers annually. Additionally, 46 tree rescuers contribute over 900 hours each year to remove invasive vines and protect mature trees. These efforts restore balance to natural ecosystems, protect biodiversity, improve water quality and create healthier habitats for people and wildlife alike.

Be Part of the Next 20 Years

The community is invited to become part of the movement! Get outdoors and meet new friends with hands-on volunteer opportunities at parks across the county. Volunteer opportunities range from 90 minutes to three hours, and anyone 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Longer term commitments are also available.

In celebration of National Invasive Species Awareness Week this week, get ahead of your garden with the "Plant This, Not That.” This helps residents identify invasive plants commonly sold in stores and offers native alternatives that support local ecosystems.

Save the dates for special volunteer events, including the Tree Rescuers Extravaganza, March 21-April 12, and Take Back the Forest events in April and May.

Visit the Invasive Management Area Volunteer Program website to learn more. You can find information on guidance about how to take action, milestone highlights, anniversary storytelling and videos featuring IMA site leaders and volunteers, who are making real change in parks across Fairfax County.

The Invasive Management Area Program is sponsored 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 Board held its election of officers at its meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 11. The board unanimously elected Dranesville District Representative Timothy B. Hackman as chair; Hunter Mill District Representative William G. Bouie as vice chair; Franconia District Representative Dr. Cynthia Jacobs Carter as secretary; and At-Large Representative Dr. Abena Aidoo Hewton as treasurer.

"I’m honored by the confidence my fellow Board members have placed in me," Chairman Hackman said. "Our parks and programs are essential to the health and vitality of our community. I look forward to working with my colleagues, staff and residents to build on our momentum and continue providing outstanding experiences for everyone we serve."

Board officer positions are outlined in the Bylaws Governing the Fairfax County Park Authority Board and include chairman, vice chairman, secretary and treasurer. Officers are elected annually by the members of the Park Authority Board at the beginning of the calendar year.

Members of the Fairfax County Park Authority Board are appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The 12-member board includes one representative from each of the county’s nine magisterial districts and three at-large members. This public body is responsible for setting policy and establishing priorities for the Park Authority. For more information, visit the Park Authority Board website.

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. The honor is based on real wedding experiences shared by couples and reflects both venues as trusted and well-regarded wedding and event locations in Fairfax County.

"Earning the Weddys Award is especially meaningful because it reflects the voices of the couples we serve," Event Director Marisa Devon said. "Whether couples choose Laurel Hill or Twin Lakes, they can expect clear communication, attentive coordination and a team that is fully invested in making their day feel effortless and personal."

Laurel Hill attributes its continued recognition to a hospitality-forward approach centered on consistency, professionalism and attention to detail from the initial tour through the final sendoff. Twin Lakes has earned its recognition through the same commitment to service, offering couples a welcoming setting with flexible options and experienced staff that is focused on delivering thoughtful coordination throughout the planning process.

Nestled in Lorton’s rolling terrain, Laurel Hill Golf Club offers stunning views, a rich historical backdrop and a welcoming ambiance. The venue features a 9,400-square-foot clubhouse, including the Tower Grill restaurant and customizable event packages tailored to every couple’s needs. Its scenic landscapes provide picture-perfect settings for wedding photography. The event director guides families through every detail, taking pressure off parents and couples, while the culinary team delivers food that guests continue to rave about. Couples and guests consistently praise the venue’s exceptional service, clear communication and attention to detail.

Located in Clifton, Twin Lakes offers a charming and inviting setting for weddings and events. The venue features versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, along with flexible event packages to suit every celebration. The team is known for being calm, professional, and wonderful with children, creating an environment where guests can truly relax.

Brides & Weddings Magazine is Northern Virginia’s premier guide for engaged couples, offering planning advice and showcasing top wedding vendors. Winners of the Weddy Awards are selected by a panel of industry experts and are featured in the January 2026 issue of the magazine.

For more information about these venues visit the Golf Fairfax Weddings and Parties webpage.

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. Golfers will learn how to think their way around the course, make smarter decisions and manage risk to turn better choices into lower scores, all without changing their swing.

"Golf is 20% talent and 80% management," said professional golfer Ben Hogan. Poor club selection, overly aggressive shots or ignoring hazards can easily cost several strokes per round.

This clinic will teach how golf professionals approach the game to avoid costly mistakes and gain an edge on every hole. Students will also receive an electronic Course Strategy & Management instruction book to reinforce key concepts.

Clinic Details:

• Dates and Time: Feb. 14 or Feb. 15, from 4 to 5 p.m.
• Cost: $20 per golfer
• Limited to the first 20 golfers
• Location: Held indoors in the Valis Family Learning Center at Pinecrest Golf Course
• Register by contacting the Pinecrest Pro Shop at 703-941-1061

Pinecrest Golf Course is located at 6600 Little River Turnpike in Alexandria.

For more information about this and other Golf Fairfax events, please visit the Golf website.

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:

• Franconia Rec Center, 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria
• Stone Mansion, 3900 Stoneybrooke Drive, Alexandria
• Spring Hill Rec Center, 1239 Spring Hill Road, McLean

Kids Play Preschools feature welcoming, safe environments that nurture the emotional, social and intellectual growth of young minds. Children enrolled enjoy outdoor play, circle time and educational activities guided by caring and dedicated educators. The Park Authority’s preschool staff are CPR- and First Aid-certified, complete required background checks and have prior experience working with children. Preschool programs range from two to five days a week.

Learn more about our Kids Play Preschools and prepare for the 2026-2027 school year by attending an upcoming open house event at both Franconia Rec Center and Spring Hill Rec Center. No appointment is necessary, just drop in between 9:30 a.m. and noon on Tuesday, Feb. 24, and Wednesday, Feb. 25.

Fairfax County Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools at Franconia Rec Center and Spring Hill Rec Center also offer extended care opportunities for enrolled students. The extended care offerings provide a chance for additional learning and creativity, as well as fun, structured activities and playtime. Both locations have limited spaces on a first-come, first-served basis. Those interested should contact their preschool to learn more and register.

Interested in starting the registration process? Fill out the Preschool Enrollment Inquiry form by visiting the Rec Centers’ Preschool webpage.

Enjoying laughter, embarking on immersive adventures, and building connections that last a lifetime — these are the ingredients of Fairfax County Park Authority camps. And now that registration is open for all upcoming spring and summer camps, it’s time to secure your spot in an experience sure to form lasting memories.

Whether it is dancing to the latest hits (from "KPop Demon Hunters" to Taylor Swift) or delving into the world of science and technology (with engaging themes, such as "Star Wars" to Minecraft), there’s a camp for every interest. Take up an instrument, try a new sport, connect with animals, explore nature, learn acting skills, cook up something in the kitchen, craft with various mediums and much more.

The Park Authority brings back summer camps for people with disabilities:

• Adapted camps: In addition to providing different levels of accommodation whenever possible to ensure those with disabilities can enjoy camp, the Park Authority is hosting Adapted Park Explorers and Sensory Friendly LEGO® camps.
• Adult camps: The fun is not just for kids — adults can enjoy much-needed self-care and revel in the fun of camps this summer.
• Preschool camps: Kids ages 3 to 5 can join in the fun with everything from animal encounters to dance to nature exploration to sports and more. See the full list by selecting "Preschool (3-5 years)" in the Age Range category. 
• Teen camps: Teenagers can get in on action this summer with specialized camp activities from golf to fishing to fencing to paddling to table tennis to acting to gaming and coding. See the full list by selecting "(13-17 yrs)" in the Age Range category. 

Don’t miss the last set of winter camps happening Feb. 16-17:

• Get in on the ACTion!
• Draw and create
• Jump into sports
• Build with LEGOs
• Explore music
• Try science on for size
• Become a winter wildlife ranger

Save the date for the upcoming camps coming this spring — grab your spring spots before they are gone:

• March 20
• March 30-April 3
• April 6
• April 10
• May 26-27

With so many options for camps throughout the year, the Park Authority offers numerous resources to help make the process for searching and registering easier. Use the following resources:

• 2026 Camp Guide: Explore the full suite of spring and summer camp offerings.
• My Summer Camp Planner: Download to make notes of registration codes and open registration dates to track your top choices.
• Camp Spreadsheet: Use this spreadsheet to sort and filter available camps and Extended Care offerings for children by their age, the week, the type of camp and the location.
• Search and register online! 

Keep up with all the details by visiting the Park Authority's Camps website. For more information or assistance, please email camps@fairfaxcounty.gov.