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
Fairfax County Park Authority

What We Do

The Park Authority Mission is to enrich 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.

Department Resources

Related Resources

Upcoming Public Meetings/Events

The amazingly popular First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest returns for 2026! Grab your coats and cameras and join the fun on New Year’s Day along more than 334 miles of Park Authority trails.

Explore everything Rec Centers have to offer on Sunday, Jan. 4! Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership all day. Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for special programming such as fitness demonstrations, sample classes, a membership table with giveaways, arts and crafts and other fun activities. Check out each Rec Center page for specific programming information.

*Please note that free admission requires sign up for a free, 7-day trial membership or purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass.

 

Park News

 

Featured Videos

Park Authority Blog: Our Stories

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FCPA An Award-Winning Park System

FCPA Nationally Acclaimed

 

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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
Fairfax Virtual Assistant