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

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Dogs of Fairfax County

Dog Daze

The Water Mine goes to the dogs with a season-ending, family friendly event. Proceeds will help fund Fairfax County parks through the through the Fairfax County Park Foundation.  

Get ready for a howling-good time at this event that welcomes dogs to splash and play in the water at The Water Mine. Each participating dog will need its own ticket and must be up to date on all vaccinations. Please note that humans are not allowed to swim.

Saturday, Sept. 12, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.  

The Water Mine at Lake Fairfax Park

$15/dog 

Register Online

Dog

Welcome to the Fairfax County Park Authority’s dog webpage, where we celebrate the joy of dogs and their paw-some adventures in our parks. Get all the information you need to explore and enjoy our pet friendly places below. Grab a leash (and a waste bag or two), put on a smile, and embark on memorable outdoor fun with your furry friend!

Fetch your dog's fun guide!

Dog Parks

Looking for ways to run your furry friend and socialize with others? Fairfax County Park Authority offers 11 dog parks where canine companions can run, play and socialize off-leash in a safe and enclosed space. These parks provide a fantastic opportunity for dogs to exercise, make new friends and enjoy quality time with their owners. 

Off-Leash Dog Parks

Trail Buddy

Go for a hike with your best friend and enjoy the scenery. Fairfax County Park Authority has more than 334 miles of amazing trails. Want to find a trail near you? Our Trail Buddy can help! Just type in an address and the map will display all the closest trails. Use the icons on the top of the map to explore trail features.

Learn More

Dog Events and Programs

Discover a tail-wagging calendar of exciting dog events in Fairfax County! From dog-friendly festivals and parks to agility classes and obedience courses, these paw-some gatherings celebrate the canine community and provide endless fun for dogs and owners alike.

Annual Dog Events

The Park Authority hosts events to share special experiences with their dogs such as:

  • Ides of Bark — during March, bring your pup out to explore pet vendors showcasing products and services, watch canine demonstrations, and take part in dog-friendly games and activities.  
  • Dog Daze — at the end of the outdoor pool season, dogs of all shapes and sizes swim and frolic throughout The Water Mine at Lake Fairfax Park.

Stay tuned here for more details about these two events that benefit parks through the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

Dog Programs

Join our community of dog lovers in Fairfax County Parks, where our expert instructors provide top-notch training and bonding opportunities for you and your four-legged friends. 

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