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

Park News

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Get the latest information on what is happening at the Park Authority. Contact the Public Information Office for archived news items at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

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Park Authority To Host Public Meeting on Trail Project at Martin Luther King Jr. Park

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.
Park Authority To Host Public Meeting on Trail Project at Martin Luther King Jr. Park

FCPA Rec Centers Host Open Hire To Fill Lifeguard Positions

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.
FCPA Rec Centers Host Open Hire To Fill Lifeguard Positions

Park Authority Board Approves Grant for Westgrove Park Dog Area Improvements

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.
Park Authority Board Approves Grant for Westgrove Park Dog Area Improvements

Rec Center Open Houses: Connect with Community and Commit to Health

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.
Rec Center Open Houses: Connect with Community and Commit to Health

Santa Returns to Lake Accotink Park For A Festive Community Celebration

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:
Santa Returns to Lake Accotink Park For A Festive Community Celebration

Where To Find Fairfax County Park Holiday Hours and Closure Notifications

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.
Where To Find Fairfax County Park Holiday Hours and Closure Notifications

Winter Competition Heats Up at Pinecrest’s Trackman League

woman playing indoor golf
Competition heats up this winter at Pinecrest Golf Course, where golfers can take on world-class courses from the comfort of the Trackman indoor studio. Back for its second year, the Indoor Trackman League invites players to compete on the Trackman4 golf simulator inside Pinecrest’s dedicated simulator suite. The league will run from Jan.
Winter Competition Heats Up at Pinecrest’s Trackman League

Park Authority Appoints Conservation and Parks Leader as Deputy Director for Planning and Development

Nigel A. Fields
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the appointment of Nigel A. Fields to the position of deputy director for Planning and Development. Fields is a leader in conservation, park development and programming, and land use planning and management. He began his new role on Dec. 1 and succeeds Aimee Vosper, who is retiring from the Park Authority on Dec. 26 after 12 years of service.
Park Authority Appoints Conservation and Parks Leader as Deputy Director for Planning and Development

Make the Most of Winter with Events, Camps and Classes

playing chess
When the weather turns chilly, Fairfax County Park Authority provides many ways to stay active and entertained during the winter season — bring your family and friends out to our seasonal events, coordinate attendance at our winter camps and register for classes together.
Make the Most of Winter with Events, Camps and Classes

Turner Farmhouse Foundation To Host Annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Dec. 6

Turner Farmhouse
The Turner Farmhouse Foundation invites the community to its annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the historic Turner Farmhouse in Great Falls. The event is free, open to the public and includes onsite parking. Guests are encouraged to RSVP online; tickets are provided at no cost.
Turner Farmhouse Foundation To Host Annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Dec. 6

Lake Fairfax Park Named One of RV LIFE’s 'Best of the Best' Campgrounds for 2025

RV
Lake Fairfax Park has been named one of RV LIFE’s “Best of the Best” Campgrounds for 2025, placing it among the top 25% of campgrounds nationwide. The recognition reflects outstanding reviews, high satisfaction ratings and strong engagement from RV LIFE members, who continue to share glowing firsthand experiences at the park.
Lake Fairfax Park Named One of RV LIFE’s 'Best of the Best' Campgrounds for 2025

Celebrate the Holiday Season Fairfax County Park Authority Style

wreath
Join family, friends and neighbors at the parks this holiday season. With more than 50 holiday-themed activities and events to choose from, Fairfax County Park Authority has something for everyone — from wagon and train rides to candlelit tours and, of course, Santa himself! Here are just a few highlights:
Celebrate the Holiday Season Fairfax County Park Authority Style

Step Into the New Year with First Hike Fairfax 2026

first hike fairfax logo
Start 2026 on the right foot with the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation’s annual First Hike Photo Contest! Community members of all ages and abilities are invited to join the fun and explore the beauty of Fairfax County parks.
Step Into the New Year with First Hike Fairfax 2026

Conquer the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K

Burke Lake Race
Channel your alter ego and achieve the ultimate glory by conquering the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K. Whether you gravitate towards the light side or dark side, all are invited to join the race at Burke Lake Park on Saturday, May 2.
Conquer the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K

Public Comment Period Extended for Proposed 2026 Park Authority Fee Schedule

Park News
Recognizing the importance of community participation, the Park Authority Board is seeking public input to ensure the proposed 2026 Fee Schedule reflects the priorities of Fairfax County residents. To provide additional time for community members to share their perspectives, the public comment period has been extended to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4.
Public Comment Period Extended for Proposed 2026 Park Authority Fee Schedule

Boogie Like a Beaver! Award-Packed 5K Returns to Lake Accotink

lake accotink Park
The Beaver Boogie 5K is back! Join the Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) on Saturday, Nov. 29 for the third-annual fun run and walk at Lake Accotink Park.
Boogie Like a Beaver! Award-Packed 5K Returns to Lake Accotink

Park Authority to Host Public Meeting on Peake Family Cemetery Survey

Park Authority to Host Public Meeting on Peake Family Cemetery Survey
Park Authority to Host Public Meeting on Peake Family Cemetery Survey

More Golf for Less — The Fall Golf Pass Sale Is Back

Golfers
Unlock the best golf deals of the year with Golf Fairfax. Enjoy seasonal savings, year-round play during the Fall Pass Sale happening from Nov. 15 to Nov. 28. Now is the perfect time to plan your visit and save, stock up for next season or surprise a golfer with a great gift. Tee Up for Pass Deals:
More Golf for Less — The Fall Golf Pass Sale Is Back

George Washington Rec Center Announces Updated Operating Hours Starting Jan. 2

FAcility update
Updated Dec. 22. The George Washington Rec Center is updating its operating hours starting Friday, Jan. 2. The new schedule provides access for fitness and recreation opportunities throughout the week while accommodating additional facility needs.
George Washington Rec Center Announces Updated Operating Hours Starting Jan. 2

Park Authority Announces Lively Lineup of Activities for Mount Vernon Rec Center Event

Mount Vernon Rec Center
Celebrate with friends and neighbors at the free Mount Vernon Rec Center grand reopening event on Saturday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fairfax County Park Authority invites everyone to this family-friendly event to enjoy this fresh, new facility and try its new amenities. The Rec Center is located at 2017 Belle View Blvd. in Alexandria.
Park Authority Announces Lively Lineup of Activities for Mount Vernon Rec Center Event

Rec Centers Welcome High School Swim and Dive Teams

students swimming
Fairfax County Public School high school teams head back to Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers in November. Swim and dive teams will be using Rec Center pools through February.
Rec Centers Welcome High School Swim and Dive Teams

Farmers Markets Offer Extra Produce Benefits for SNAP Shoppers During Federal Government Shutdown

Snap benefit update
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) and its community partners are working to help ensure community members have access to fresh, healthy food throughout November, as the federal government shutdown continues to affect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Farmers Markets Offer Extra Produce Benefits for SNAP Shoppers During Federal Government Shutdown

Dogue Creek Stream Restoration Project Launches at Greendale Golf Course

Greendale Golf Course
Golf Fairfax is pleased to share details about the upcoming Dogue Creek Stream Restoration Project at Greendale Golf Course, an initiative led by the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) in collaboration with Fairfax County Park Authority.
Dogue Creek Stream Restoration Project Launches at Greendale Golf Course

Fairfax County Park Authority Invites Public Feedback on Proposed 2026 Fee Schedule

Park News
The Fairfax County Park Authority presented the proposed 2026 Park Authority Fee Schedule for consideration at the Oct. 22 meeting of the Park Authority Board, kicking off an essential community engagement process.
Fairfax County Park Authority Invites Public Feedback on Proposed 2026 Fee Schedule

Plunge Into Aquatic Fitness With Aqua Flex

People in the swimming pool
Take the plunge into aquatic fitness with Fairfax County Park Authority’s Aqua Flex pass and annual event this fall.
Plunge Into Aquatic Fitness With Aqua Flex

New Greenbriar Park Pickleball Courts Now Open

New Greenbriar Park Pickleball Courts Now Open
The Fairfax County Park Authority recently built five new pickleball courts that are now open at Greenbriar Park. The park offers convenient access for nearby neighborhoods, ample parking, restroom facilities and ADA accessibility. It also has perimeter fencing, gates to allow for controlled access and shaded seating areas. 
New Greenbriar Park Pickleball Courts Now Open

Park Authority Welcomes Community To Climb, Skate and Celebrate at Mount Vernon Rec Center Grand Reopening on Nov. 15

Mount Vernon Rec Center
WHAT: Fairfax County Park Authority will host a grand reopening event at Mount Vernon Rec Center. The free celebration will feature family-friendly activities, demonstrations in each area of the Rec Center, giveaways and games.
Park Authority Welcomes Community To Climb, Skate and Celebrate at Mount Vernon Rec Center Grand Reopening on Nov. 15

Park Authority Honored with Energy Efficiency Award for Advancements at Spring Hill Rec Center

People getting an award
The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Virginia Energy Efficiency Council award in recognition of its exceptional energy efficiency improvements at the Spring Hill Rec Center. This honor highlights FCPA’s leadership in sustainability and its commitment to reducing energy consumption across its facilities.
Park Authority Honored with Energy Efficiency Award for Advancements at Spring Hill Rec Center

The Stars Are Back at Turner Farm — Join Us or Become a Sponsor at Observatory Park

Observatory Park at Turner Farm
Observatory Park at Turner Farm is kicking off a new season of monthly astronomy programs and events designed to bring the night sky to life for registrants of all ages. Cool evenings in fall and winter are the perfect backdrop for stargazing, hands-on learning and unforgettable community experiences. Program highlights:
The Stars Are Back at Turner Farm — Join Us or Become a Sponsor at Observatory Park

Halloween Student Appreciation Day Tees Up at Laurel Hill

Halloween Student Appreciation Day Tees Up at Laurel Hill
Golf Fairfax invites golfers of all ages to Laurel Hill Golf Club for a spook-tacular celebration at the Eisman Golf Academy Student Appreciation Day, on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 1 to 5 p.m.
Halloween Student Appreciation Day Tees Up at Laurel Hill

Fairfax County Park Authority Expands Wakefield Park Pickleball Complex

Wakefield pickleball
The Fairfax County Park Authority has completed major upgrades at Wakefield Park, creating the county’s largest pickleball complex. The project added six new dedicated pickleball courts, bringing the total to eight and expanding recreation opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels.
Fairfax County Park Authority Expands Wakefield Park Pickleball Complex

Park Authority To Begin Application Review Process for Curatorship at Historic Lahey Lost Valley House

Lahey lost valley
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin evaluating a Resident Curator Program application for curatorship of the historic Lahey Lost Valley house, located at 9750 Brookmeadow Drive, Vienna. The assessment process will include livestreamed work sessions, a public meeting and a public comment period.
Park Authority To Begin Application Review Process for Curatorship at Historic Lahey Lost Valley House

Update on Franconia Rec Center Courts Proposal

Park News
After public outreach and careful consideration of feedback from both the tennis and pickleball communities, the Fairfax County Park Authority will not be moving forward at this time with a proposal to establish new dedicated pickleball courts at Franconia Rec Center.
Update on Franconia Rec Center Courts Proposal

Mastenbrook Grant Approved To Support Improvements at Chantilly Park

Chantilly Park Field 1
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board voted to approve a Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program grant totaling $12,928 to support enhancements at Chantilly Park Field 1. The total estimated cost for this improvement project is $25,856.
Mastenbrook Grant Approved To Support Improvements at Chantilly Park

Celebrating Success of 2025 Summer Entertainment Series Thanks to Sponsors, Partners, Volunteers and Supporters

arrowbrook centre performance
Parks across Fairfax County abounded with lively entertainment and overjoyed audiences with the return of the Summer Entertainment Series for 2025.
Celebrating Success of 2025 Summer Entertainment Series Thanks to Sponsors, Partners, Volunteers and Supporters

Jon Eisman Named as One of Virginia’s Best Golf Instructors

Jon Eisman Named as One of Virginia’s Best Golf Instructors
Every two years, Golf Digest surveys top instructors across the country to identify the best teachers in each state. For the 2026–2027 season, Jon Eisman has once again been honored as one of Virginia’s “Best Teachers in Every State”—an outstanding recognition that continues his nearly decadelong streak of being named among the state’s top instructors.
Jon Eisman Named as One of Virginia’s Best Golf Instructors

The Course is Calling: Celebrate Fall with Golf Fairfax

man playing golf
Grab your sweater, your pumpkin-spiced latte, and head out for a crisp morning on the fairways, where friendly competition is calling at two of Golf Fairfax’s most festive fall tournaments. Whether you’re testing your skills with just four clubs or teaming up with a partner in a festive scramble, these fall tournaments promise friendly competition, great prizes and plenty of memories from the fairways.
The Course is Calling: Celebrate Fall with Golf Fairfax

Construction Update on Chalet Woods and Greenbriar Park Courts

greenbriar pickleball rendering
The Fairfax County Park Authority is creating courts for pickleball and tennis and looks forward to welcoming players at Greenbriar Park and Chalet Woods courts later this fall.
Construction Update on Chalet Woods and Greenbriar Park Courts

Park Authority To Host Public Meeting on Salona Park Meadow Trail

SAlona park
The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a public meeting on a proposed meadow trail at Salona Park on Monday, Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the McLean Community Center at 1234 Ingleside Ave. in McLean.
Park Authority To Host Public Meeting on Salona Park Meadow Trail

Reston North Playground Getting Major Upgrade This Fall

REston North Playground Plan
Exciting changes are coming to Reston North Park Playground, located at 11760 Stevenage Road in Reston. Beginning in October 2025, the playground will undergo a full renovation to replace aging equipment and improve accessibility for all visitors.
Reston North Playground Getting Major Upgrade This Fall

Ongoing Construction Impacts Include Trail Closure and Detour in Pohick Stream Valley Park

TEMPORARY CLOSURE MAP
Construction continues on the Pohick Interceptor Rehabilitation Project in the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Pohick Stream Valley Park. Site restoration is expected to continue through November.
Ongoing Construction Impacts Include Trail Closure and Detour in Pohick Stream Valley Park

Halloweekend Thrills Await in Fairfax Parks!

FAmily dressed for halloween
Step into a Halloween season packed with thrills, treats and traditions across Fairfax County parks. Ghostly golf, costumed parades, harvest festivals and family-friendly haunts fill the calendar with festive fun. Create memories with loved ones, explore new adventures and celebrate the magic of fall at Fairfax County Park Authority events designed for every ghost, ghoul and goblin.
Halloweekend Thrills Await in Fairfax Parks!

Roll Out to Family Skate and Dance Night

Family Skate Night
Find some of the season’s best outings at Franconia Rec Center’s Family Skate and Dance Night. Fairfax County Park Authority invites all ages out to enjoy these family-friendly, community events that boast exciting themes and live music.
Roll Out to Family Skate and Dance Night

Discover Wellness at Park Authority Rec Centers During September Open House

Rec Center Open House
Walk through the doors to any of Fairfax County Park Authority’s nine Rec Centers for free on Tuesday, Sept. 23, and find a variety of resources to improve your health and wellness. Discover the unique amenities of your neighborhood Rec Center during this Open House event.
Discover Wellness at Park Authority Rec Centers During September Open House

ParktoberFest Returns to Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

Parktoberfest crew
Celebrate the fall season with family, friends and neighbors at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park’s annual ParktoberFest! Enjoy live music, delicious food, craft brews, artisan shopping and family-friendly activities on Saturday, Oct. 4, from noon to 5 p.m. on the lawn of the historic Middlegate House beside Cabell’s Mill, located at 5235 Walney Road in Centreville.
ParktoberFest Returns to Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

VDOF Grant Supports Regional Push To Protect Fairfax County Parklands from Invasive Plants

ima volunteers
The Virginia Department of Forestry has awarded the National Capital Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (NatCap PRISM) an $80,000 grant to manage invasive plants across the region. The Fairfax County Park Authority will use the funding to conserve wildlife habitat, restore natural areas and expand public education about forest health.
VDOF Grant Supports Regional Push To Protect Fairfax County Parklands from Invasive Plants

Resident Curator Applications Accepted for Dranesville Tavern Through Oct. 10

dranesville tavern
An application for curatorship has been received for the historic Dranesville Tavern. The Fairfax County Park Authority will continue to accept resident curator applications for the rehabilitation and long-term maintenance of the tavern until Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at 5 p.m.
Resident Curator Applications Accepted for Dranesville Tavern Through Oct. 10

Discover the History of Fairfax County at the 2025 Historic Oak Hill Open House

Oak Hill Open House
Step back in time and explore one of the oldest homes in Fairfax County during the annual Historic Oak Hill Open House on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Discover the History of Fairfax County at the 2025 Historic Oak Hill Open House

Strawberry Park Playground Offers Dynamic New Destination at Mosaic

Park news
Fairfax County Park Authority and EDENS are pleased to welcome the community to a celebration for the opening of Strawberry Park Playground at Mosaic District in Fairfax at 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, live music, face-painting and activities for kids.
Strawberry Park Playground Offers Dynamic New Destination at Mosaic

FCPA Hosts Drop-In Interviews at Frying Pan Farm Park and Burke Lake Park

frying pan park
The Fairfax County Park Authority is hiring at two of its most popular parks. Looking for a fun and fulfilling part-time job this fall and winter? Join the team at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon or Burke Lake Park in Fairfax Station. Appointments are not necessary, just come by to explore job opportunities, complete an application and interview on the spot, all in one visit.
FCPA Hosts Drop-In Interviews at Frying Pan Farm Park and Burke Lake Park

 

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