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

Stay Informed

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 Honored with Governor’s Environmental Award for Spring Hill Recreation Center Energy Upgrades

FCPA receives award
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.
Park Authority Honored with Governor’s Environmental Award for Spring Hill Recreation Center Energy Upgrades

Make a Splash and Earn Some Cash with a Summer Job at the Water Mine

water mine workers
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.
Make a Splash and Earn Some Cash with a Summer Job at the Water Mine

Spend Your Summer on the Lake—Drop-In Interviews Begin at Lake Fairfax Park

Lake Fairfax
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.
Spend Your Summer on the Lake—Drop-In Interviews Begin at Lake Fairfax Park

Egg Hunts Galore and More: Celebrate Spring in the Parks

egg hunt
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.
Egg Hunts Galore and More: Celebrate Spring in the Parks

Soccer, Skateboarding and Family Fun Planned for Mount Vernon Woods Park Grand Opening

mount vernon woods rendering
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.
Soccer, Skateboarding and Family Fun Planned for Mount Vernon Woods Park Grand Opening

Your Best Golf Season Starts with Savings

golf
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.
Your Best Golf Season Starts with Savings

Get Paid To Play as a Summer Camp Counselor

Camp Staff
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.
Get Paid To Play as a Summer Camp Counselor

Celebrate Spring in Style at Family Skate and Dance Night

family skating
Embrace the spring season with a night out all ages will enjoy at an upcoming Family Skate and Dance Night. Gather the crew, whether it’s family or friends, and head out to Franconia Rec Center as its gym transforms for the night into a skate rink.
Celebrate Spring in Style at Family Skate and Dance Night

Park Authority Seeks Volunteers for Earth Day Celebration

kids climbing wall
Earth Day Fairfax will be an unforgettable day of fun, education and community. The 2026 event will take place on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston. Earth Day Fairfax is the county’s largest Earth Day celebration, and we are asking for your help.
Park Authority Seeks Volunteers for Earth Day Celebration

Providence Rec Center: Two-Week Closure Begins March 23

Providence Rec Center: Two-Week Closure Begins March 23
Fairfax County Park Authority plans on conducting facility maintenance, cleaning and improvements at Providence Rec Center, 7525 Marc Drive, Falls Church. To ensure customer safety during this work, the Rec Center will be closed from Monday, March 23 through Sunday, April 5.
Providence Rec Center: Two-Week Closure Begins March 23

Earth Day Festival Heads to Lake Fairfax on April 25

rock climbing wall
Earth Day Fairfax is around the corner! Fairfax County’s largest, family-friendly Earth Day celebration will take place at Lake Fairfax Park on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Earth Day Festival Heads to Lake Fairfax on April 25

Your Summer Adventure Starts Here. #JoinFCPA

mv staff
The Fairfax County Park Authority is now hiring hundreds of seasonal team members to support parks, recreation centers, nature centers, historic sites, golf courses and pools across the county.
Your Summer Adventure Starts Here. #JoinFCPA

Historic Huntley Named to National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

HIstoric huntley
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
Historic Huntley Named to National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

Fairfax County Park Authority’s Patriot Park North Recognized as Top 'All-Star Outdoor Venue'

Fairfax County Park Authority’s Patriot Park North Recognized as Top “All-Star Outdoor Venue”
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.
Fairfax County Park Authority’s Patriot Park North Recognized as Top 'All-Star Outdoor Venue'

It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s a Healthy Strides Participant!

runners during a race
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.
It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s a Healthy Strides Participant!

Spring It On with Park Authority Classes

Parktakes
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.
Spring It On with Park Authority Classes

Celebrate 20 Years of the Invasive Plant Management Program and Help Shape Its Future

Invasive Management Area Program Volunteers
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.
Celebrate 20 Years of the Invasive Plant Management Program and Help Shape Its Future

Park Authority Board Selects Officers for 2026

board news logo
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.
Park Authority Board Selects Officers for 2026

Laurel Hill and Twin Lakes Receive 2026 Weddy Awards

Wedding couple
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.
Laurel Hill and Twin Lakes Receive 2026 Weddy Awards

Play Smarter, Score Lower: Golf Course Strategy Clinic at Pinecrest

Valis Golf Learning Center
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.
Play Smarter, Score Lower: Golf Course Strategy Clinic at Pinecrest

Grow, Learn and Play at the Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools

Preschool
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:
Grow, Learn and Play at the Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools

Making Memories at Park Authority Camps

Theater Camp
Enjoying laughter, embarking on immersive adventures, and building connections that last a lifetime — these are the ingredients of Fairfax County Park Authority camps.
Making Memories at Park Authority Camps

Drop-In Interviews for Seasonal Jobs Begin at Burke Lake Park

Burke Lake Park
If you’re looking for a seasonal job that gets you out from behind a desk and lets you work in a beautiful setting while building real-world skills, this is it. Spend your season at Burke Lake Park, one of Fairfax County’s most beautiful outdoor destinations!
Drop-In Interviews for Seasonal Jobs Begin at Burke Lake Park

Park Authority Seeks Input in Evaluating Resident Curator Applications for Historic Dranesville Tavern

dranesville tavern
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin evaluating applications for curatorship of the historic Dranesville Tavern, located in the Dranesville District at 11919 Leesburg Pike, Herndon.
Park Authority Seeks Input in Evaluating Resident Curator Applications for Historic Dranesville Tavern

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve To Close Temporarily for Urgent Sewer Repairs

Parks Notice
Beginning on Monday, Feb. 16, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve will be closed for an urgent sewer project to renew and rehabilitate the Scott's Run Siphon wastewater facility.
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve To Close Temporarily for Urgent Sewer Repairs

Celebrate Black History Month with Fairfax County Park Authority

Black History Month Logo
Honor Black history through meaningful programs that explore African American history, culture and lived experiences across Fairfax County.
Celebrate Black History Month with Fairfax County Park Authority

Rec Center Membership Sale Extended

mount vernon pool
Fairfax County Park Authority announces an extension to the current Rec Center membership sale through Tuesday, Feb. 10. With recent winter weather closures, the Park Authority wanted to provide ample time for those interested to secure their 15% discounts on annual membership purchases.
Rec Center Membership Sale Extended

Oakmont Named One of America’s Top 50 Public Ranges

Oakmont Golf Center
Oakmont Golf Center range was recognized as one of America’s Top 50 Public Ranges by Golf Range Magazine. Golf Range magazine is a publication of the Golf Range Association of America and the Professional Golf Association.
Oakmont Named One of America’s Top 50 Public Ranges

Welcome the Year of the Horse at Fairfax County’s Lunar New Year Celebration

Lunar New Year Celebration
Celebrate Lunar New Year with an evening of traditional music and dance, hands-on cultural activities, and Asian-inspired cuisine on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Twin Lakes Golf Course. 
Welcome the Year of the Horse at Fairfax County’s Lunar New Year Celebration

Observatory Park at Turner Farm Earns Prestigious International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Place Designation

Observatory Park at Turner Farm
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Observatory Park at Turner Farm has been designated an International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International. The designation recognizes the park’s commitment to protecting the night sky through responsible outdoor lighting, community partnerships and public education.
Observatory Park at Turner Farm Earns Prestigious International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Place Designation

Nathan Kennedy Named People’s Choice Award Winner in 2026 First Hike Contest

Credit Nathan Kennedy
The Fairfax County Park Authority is thrilled to announce Nathan Kennedy as the winner of the People’s Choice Award for the 2026 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest. His captivating photo, taken at Huntley Meadows Park, received the highest number of online votes submitted by residents from across the county. 
Nathan Kennedy Named People’s Choice Award Winner in 2026 First Hike Contest

Park Authority Now Accepting Vendor and Exhibitor Applications for 2026 Earth Day Fairfax Festival

Earth Day
Join us for Fairfax County’s largest Earth Day celebration!
Park Authority Now Accepting Vendor and Exhibitor Applications for 2026 Earth Day Fairfax Festival

Let the Good Times Roll at Upcoming Skate Nights

Family Skate Night
Don’t miss out on an enjoyable night out for the entire family — roll out to an upcoming Family Skate and Dance Night at Franconia Rec Center. These family friendly events feature fun themes every month in the Rec Center’s gym.
Let the Good Times Roll at Upcoming Skate Nights

Start the New Year with a Commitment to Health

two people on treadmill
The new year brings opportunities to start fresh and on the right track. Make a resolution to improve your health and wellness at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers.
Start the New Year with a Commitment to Health

Ready, Set, Register for Spring and Summer Camp

kid playing tennis
Prepare for laughter, learning and memories that last a lifetime with Fairfax County Park Authority camps. Back by popular demand, split registration for 2026 spring and summer camps returns. Watch the Camps video below:
Ready, Set, Register for Spring and Summer Camp

Park Authority Announces First Hike Photo Contest Awards and Opens Voting for the People’s Choice Award

first hike fairfax logo
Braving the cold, Fairfax County residents welcomed 2026 by getting outside. Hundreds of participants of all ages explored the Fairfax County Park Authority’s more than 420 parks and 334 miles of trails, capturing moments from their first hikes of the year for the 2026 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest.
Park Authority Announces First Hike Photo Contest Awards and Opens Voting for the People’s Choice Award

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

 

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