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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Rena Schild Named People’s Choice Award Winner in 2025 First Hike Contest

fowl in flight
The Fairfax County Park Authority is thrilled to announce Rena Schild as the winner of the People’s Choice Award for the 2025 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest. Rena’s captivating photo, taken at Huntley Meadows Park, received the highest number of online votes submitted by residents from across the county. As the winner, Rena will receive a $100 gift card, sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation.
Rena Schild Named People’s Choice Award Winner in 2025 First Hike Contest

Golf Fairfax Instructor Leads Meridian Mustangs to First State Title

Meridian Mustang Golf Team
Golf Fairfax congratulates Pinecrest golf instructor, Tim Sample, on his outstanding achievement of leading the Meridian High School golf team to its first Virginia state championship in school history.
Golf Fairfax Instructor Leads Meridian Mustangs to First State Title

Applications Now Being Accepted for 2025 Earth Day Fairfax Festival Vendors

Earth Day Fairfax Vendors
Come be a part of the largest Earth Day celebration in Fairfax County!
Applications Now Being Accepted for 2025 Earth Day Fairfax Festival Vendors

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

first hike logo
Chilly weather didn’t deter Fairfax County residents from venturing outdoors to celebrate the start of 2025. Hundreds of people of all ages embraced the fresh new year by exploring the Park Authority’s more than 420 parks and 334 miles of trails, capturing their experience for the 2025 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest.
Park Authority Announces First Hike Photo Contest Awards and Opens Voting for the People’s Choice Award

Park Authority Public Meeting on Proposed Pavilion at Green Spring Gardens Postponed

proposed pavilion at Green Spring
The Fairfax County Park Authority has postponed the public meeting on the proposed pavilion at Green Spring Gardens due to inclement weather. The meeting, originally scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025, will now take place on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m.
Park Authority Public Meeting on Proposed Pavilion at Green Spring Gardens Postponed

Park Authority Invites Community to Information Meeting on Mount Vernon Rec Center Reopening

The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to a special information meeting about the highly anticipated reopening of the Mount Vernon Rec Center. The meeting will be held on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Belle View Elementary School in the cafeteria.
Park Authority Invites Community to Information Meeting on Mount Vernon Rec Center Reopening

Trail Maintenance Project Update for South Run Stream Valley Park

srsv map
The Fairfax County Park Authority is providing an update on the ongoing trail maintenance project in South Run Stream Valley Park. Initially slated for completion by the end of 2024, weather conditions have delayed the remaining work. The project, which includes trail repairs, culvert replacements and related improvements, aims to enhance safety and usability for all trail users.
Trail Maintenance Project Update for South Run Stream Valley Park

Don’t Miss Your Chance To Join the Fun: First Hike Photo Contest Kicks Off Jan. 1

first hike logo
The Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation invite you to lace up your hiking boots and grab your camera for the 2025 First Hike Photo Contest! This is your opportunity to embrace the beauty of Fairfax County’s parks, enjoy time outdoors and compete for exciting prizes.
Don’t Miss Your Chance To Join the Fun: First Hike Photo Contest Kicks Off Jan. 1

Park Authority Invites Public Input on Proposed Pavilion at Green Spring Gardens

Green Spring Pavilion
Notice The public meeting at Green Spring Gardens has been rescheduled for February 6, 2025, at 2 to 4 p.m. The public comment period has been extended to 5 p.m. on February 28, 2025.
Park Authority Invites Public Input on Proposed Pavilion at Green Spring Gardens

Join, Connect and Get Active at Rec Centers: Open House and Membership Sale in January

Rec Center Open House
Stay healthy and connect with your community at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers. Explore your local Rec Centers for free on Saturday, Jan. 4 and enjoy a 15% discount on annual membership all month long.
Join, Connect and Get Active at Rec Centers: Open House and Membership Sale in January

Parks Receive $2.1 Million from Foundation Donors in 2024

Group photo
The Fairfax County Park Foundation Board joined with members of the Park Authority Board and Fairfax County Supervisors Andres Jimenez (Mason District) and Rodney Lusk (Franconia District) to commemorate the more than $2.1 million in monetary contributions received in 2024 to support park programs and initiatives throughout the county. In total, the Foundation’s fundraising and grant initiatives netted more than $2.4 million in monetary and in-kind contributions of goods and services in 2024 to support Fairfax County parks.
Parks Receive $2.1 Million from Foundation Donors in 2024

Laurel Hill Golf Club Receives 2025 Weddy Award

Laurel Hill Golf
For the third-consecutive year, Laurel Hill Golf Club has received the prestigious Weddy Award for Best Golf Club Venue, presented by Brides & Weddings Magazine. The 2025 Weddy Awards celebrate excellence in the wedding and event industry, honoring businesses that deliver exceptional service, innovation and professionalism.
Laurel Hill Golf Club Receives 2025 Weddy Award

Park Authority Announces Public Comment Period for Royal Lake Trail Improvements

RoYal Lake
The Fairfax County Park Authority is nearing the completion of the design and permitting process for several trail improvements at Royal Lake in the Braddock District. As part of the process, the Park Authority has posted the environmental documentation for a Categorical Exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act, which is required in order to initiate the project.
Park Authority Announces Public Comment Period for Royal Lake Trail Improvements

Grow Your Business; Calling All Local Food Producers to Apply for the 2025 Farmers Market Season

Farmers Market
Calling all local farmers and food producers! Applications are now open for food producers to participate in the wildly popular Fairfax County Park Authority Farmers Markets in 2025. If you’re passionate about what you grow or make, this is your chance to share it with the community!
Grow Your Business; Calling All Local Food Producers to Apply for the 2025 Farmers Market Season

Introducing the 2025 Indoor Trackman League at Pinecrest Golf Course

Indoor Golf
This winter, Golf Fairfax is thrilled to launch its first-ever Indoor Trackman League! Using the state-of-the-art Trackman4 golf simulator at Pinecrest Golf Course, players can compete in a fun and engaging league from the comfort of our indoor studio. The tournament will run from Jan. 6 to March 30, 2025.
Introducing the 2025 Indoor Trackman League at Pinecrest Golf Course

2025 First Hike Photo Contest: Kick Off the New Year Outdoors!

First Hike
Start 2025 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 encouraged to join the fun and explore the beauty of Fairfax County parks. How To Participate
2025 First Hike Photo Contest: Kick Off the New Year Outdoors!

Turner Farmhouse Foundation Hosts Annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Dec. 7

Turner Farmhouse
The Turner Farmhouse Foundation is hosting its annual pancake breakfast and open house on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9:30 – 11 a.m. Parking is available on site with volunteers able to assist. The event is open to the public at no cost.
Turner Farmhouse Foundation Hosts Annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Dec. 7

Explore Burke Lake’s Fantasy Forest during the 2025 Healthy Strides 5K/10K

franconia skate park
Enjoy a truly magical event at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 3 — the 2025 Healthy Strides Fantasy Forest 5K/10K. Encounter mythical creatures as you run, walk or roll in the 5K (3.1 miles) or as you run through the trails in the competitive 10K (6.2 miles) at Burke Lake Park located at 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station.
Explore Burke Lake’s Fantasy Forest during the 2025 Healthy Strides 5K/10K

Enjoy the Happy Holidays with the Fairfax County Park Authority

franconia skate park
Join family, friends and neighbors at the park this holiday season. With more than 50 holiday-oriented activities and events to choose from, the 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. 
Enjoy the Happy Holidays with the Fairfax County Park Authority

Lake Accotink Friends, Santa Set To Bring Holiday Cheer to the Park

people holding dogs
Celebrate the holidays with family, friends and four-legged buddies over at Lake Accotink Park for a merry good time! Join the Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) for a festive holiday experience on Saturday, Dec. 14. Volunteer setup and decorations start at 10 a.m. and Santa arrives at noon.
Lake Accotink Friends, Santa Set To Bring Holiday Cheer to the Park

Celebrate the Grand Reopening of McLean Central Park Dec. 7

fcpa ribbon cutting
The Fairfax County Park Authority – in partnership with Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman, The Fairfax County Park Foundation and The McLean Central Playground Team – is pleased to announce the official ribbon-cutting to commemorate the reopening of McLean Central Park.
Celebrate the Grand Reopening of McLean Central Park Dec. 7

Park Authority, Community Celebrate Completion of New McNaughton Fields Park Amenity

fcpa ribbon cutting
The Fairfax County Park Authority joined with Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck and members of the Woodlawn Little League community to celebrate the completion of the new restroom and concession building at McNaughton Fields Park.
Park Authority, Community Celebrate Completion of New McNaughton Fields Park Amenity

Trail Maintenance Project Underway in South Run Stream Valley Park

South Run Stream Valley Trail
The Fairfax County Park Authority has begun a trail maintenance project in South Run Stream Valley Park. The project includes trail repairs, culvert replacements and related improvements to enhance safety and usability.
Trail Maintenance Project Underway in South Run Stream Valley Park

Score Your Favorite Tee Times with New Noteefy Recurring Searches

Noteefy
Golf Fairfax is excited to announce a new enhancement to Noteefy, our virtual tee time booking assistant. Golfers can now set up recurring tee time searches, making it easier than ever to secure tee times at their favorite Golf Fairfax courses, eliminating the need for repeated manual searches.
Score Your Favorite Tee Times with New Noteefy Recurring Searches

Feedback Sought on Skatepark Designs for Mount Vernon Woods Park

Mount Vernon Woods Skatepark
The Fairfax County Park Authority and Spohn Ranch, Inc. are seeking comments from the community on two proposed design concepts for the planned skatepark at Mount Vernon Woods Park in Alexandria. Following an initial public meeting on Sept.
Feedback Sought on Skatepark Designs for Mount Vernon Woods Park

Unlock the Best Golf Deals of the Year with Golf Fairfax

Golfer takes a swing
Get the lowest prices of the year on golf rounds during Golf Fairfax’s Fall Pass Sale beginning Nov. 16-29. Whether you're gearing up for next season or shopping for the perfect golf gift, now is the time to plan your visit and save.
Unlock the Best Golf Deals of the Year with Golf Fairfax

Poetry in the Parks: Parks and the Arts Celebrate Natural Connection

poetry in the parks
The Fairfax County Park Authority and ArtsFairfax, joined by Supervisors Kathy Smith (Sully District) and Jimmy Bierman (Dranesville District) celebrated the unveiling of two new plaques at Ellanor C. Lawrence and Riverbend Parks to inspire creativity in nature with Poetry in the Parks. The initiative, created by outgoing Fairfax County Poet Laureate Danielle Badra, encourages parkgoers to contribute creative writing, poetry and illustrations inspired by park scenes to ArtsFairfax’s digital collection of Poetry in the Parks.
Poetry in the Parks: Parks and the Arts Celebrate Natural Connection

Fairfax County Park Authority Celebrates New Playground and Outdoor Fun at Muddy Hole Farm Park

Muddy Hole Park Ribbon-Cutting
Families, friends, and community members gathered at Muddy Hole Farm Park on Nov. 4 to celebrate the opening of a brand-new playground and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon exploring nature. Hosted by the Fairfax County Park Authority in partnership with Supervisor Rodney Lusk, the event marked the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new playground, adding an exciting feature to the park.
Fairfax County Park Authority Celebrates New Playground and Outdoor Fun at Muddy Hole Farm Park

Magic Begins in the Park: Registration Open for Holiday Festivities

Holiday Lights
Get ready for a wonderful winter holiday experience! The Fairfax County Park Authority’s holiday and winter programs are here, and registration is open for select festive events that have become traditions for families all across the county. Don’t miss out on the chance to bring a little extra sparkle to your season. Some of the Park Authority’s featured events include:
Magic Begins in the Park: Registration Open for Holiday Festivities

Friends of Lake Accotink Park Host Second Annual Beaver Boogie 5K

Flap Logo
Back by popular demand! The Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) will host its second-annual Beaver Boogie 5K at Lake Accotink Park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30. More than just another fun run, the Beaver Boogie is a great opportunity to join with family, friends and neighbors in supporting one of Fairfax County’s largest and most visited parks.
Friends of Lake Accotink Park Host Second Annual Beaver Boogie 5K

Ribbon-Cutting for New Amenity at McNaughton Fields Park Nov. 16

amenities at McNaughton Fields Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority, Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck and members of the Woodlawn Little League community invite the public to celebrate the official ribbon-cutting for the newly completed restroom and concessions building at McNaughton Fields Park. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 10 a.m.
Ribbon-Cutting for New Amenity at McNaughton Fields Park Nov. 16

Three Farmers Market Locations Extend Their Season Into December

Farmers Market
The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to provide locally grown produce and other food items at farmers markets at locations throughout the county. While most market locations begin to wrap things up with the turning of the season, three market locations have extended their market schedule into December.
Three Farmers Market Locations Extend Their Season Into December

Oakmont Rec Center Reopens with Impressive List of Environmental Upgrades and Facility Enhancements

Oakmont Rec Center
The Oakmont Rec Center has reopened after a monthlong closure during which the facility underwent an impressive list of environmental upgrades and building improvements that include mechanical and plumbing systems and many aesthetic changes throughout the facility. These upgrades have enhanced both the functionality and appearance of the center, ensuring a better experience for visitors.
Oakmont Rec Center Reopens with Impressive List of Environmental Upgrades and Facility Enhancements

Vasilios Rajendra Named First Tee Volunteer of the Year

Vasilios Rajendra Named First Tee Volunteer of the Year
Vasilios Rajendra, a dedicated volunteer coach at Oakmont Golf Center, has been recognized as the First Tee-Greater Washington, DC’s Volunteer of the Year. Coach V, as he is known to his students, has shown commitment, passion and mentorship, making a positive impact on the lives of young golfers.
Vasilios Rajendra Named First Tee Volunteer of the Year

Lake Accotink Dam Assessment Extended Due to Debris Removal

Lake Accotink Park
This winter’s extreme cold caused the lake to freeze over and heavy snowfall further delayed progress on the dam assessment. With improved weather conditions, we have resumed lowering the lake and are working to schedule the inspection. If conditions remain favorable and no unexpected issues arise, the inspection is expected to be completed, and the lake will begin refilling in early to mid-spring. The time required for the lake to return to its normal level will depend on regional precipitation.
Lake Accotink Dam Assessment Extended Due to Debris Removal

Trail Improvements Coming Soon to Foxstone Park

Park Maintenance
The Park Authority is repairing the trail at Foxstone Park. The repairs will include milling and paving the existing trail, as well as culvert repair along the entire trail from Old Courthouse Road to Creek Crossing Road.
Trail Improvements Coming Soon to Foxstone Park

Dive Into Aquatics Exercise Classes with Aqua Flex

pool lanes
Join the Fairfax County Park Authority for Aqua Flex’24 – a showcase of the broad range of water aerobics offerings at Park Authority Rec Centers – on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 2 to 4 p.m. This free event will be held simultaneously at the Audrey Moore, Oakmont and Franconia rec centers. 
Dive Into Aquatics Exercise Classes with Aqua Flex

Park Authority Evaluates 2025 Park Fee Adjustments, Seeks Feedback

crowd of people
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board is evaluating proposed fee adjustments for the 2025 calendar year. The proposed 2025 fee adjustments and presentation materials are available at the Proposed Park Fee Schedule for Calendar Year 2025 website. The board welcomes online comments and feedback from the community on that website.
Park Authority Evaluates 2025 Park Fee Adjustments, Seeks Feedback

New Park Feature Will Inspire, Compile Exhibition of Creative Works

poetry in the parks
In a world increasingly dominated by technology and urban landscapes, parks have emerged as a vital sanctuary for inspiring and nurturing creativity.
New Park Feature Will Inspire, Compile Exhibition of Creative Works

Public Meeting for Proposed Ash Grove Curatorship Now Includes Virtual Participation Option

Ash Grove
The Fairfax County Park Authority is evaluating an application for the curatorship of the historic Ash Grove house, located in the Hunter Mill District at 8881 Ashgrove House Lane, Vienna. As part of this process, the public is invited to provide input and ask questions during a public comment period and at an upcoming public meeting.
Public Meeting for Proposed Ash Grove Curatorship Now Includes Virtual Participation Option

Celebrate the Outdoors and a New Playground at Muddy Hole Farm Park, Nov. 4

Wonder Wagon
Join the Fairfax County Park Authority and Supervisor Rodney Lusk for an afternoon of free outdoor fun on Monday, Nov. 4, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Muddy Hole Farm Park located at 7941 Kidd St. in Alexandria.
Celebrate the Outdoors and a New Playground at Muddy Hole Farm Park, Nov. 4

Basketball Court Repairs Coming to Ridgeview and Tysons Pimmit Parks

Park Maintenance
The Fairfax County Park Authority is repairing the basketball courts at Ridgeview Park and Tysons Pimmit Park. The basketball court improvements at both locations will include installation of new goals, crack repairs, a 2-inch overlay on the asphalt and line painting.
Basketball Court Repairs Coming to Ridgeview and Tysons Pimmit Parks

Embrace Excitement This Season with Winter Camps

kids and 3d printer
The Fairfax County Park Authority offers exciting camp opportunities throughout the year when schools are not in session. As schools close for student holidays this winter, embrace the chance to try something new with more than 75 one- and two-day camps covering a wide range of interests.
Embrace Excitement This Season with Winter Camps

Public Comments on the Proposed Use of the Historic Ash Grove House Accepted Until Nov. 15

Ash Grove
The Fairfax County Park Authority is now accepting public comments on the proposed curatorship of the historic Ash Grove house in Vienna. Community members are encouraged to submit their comments online or by U.S. mail before Nov. 15. There will also be an opportunity to share comments and ask questions about the proposed curatorship at an in-person public meeting on Monday, Oct. 28, at 7 p.m.
Public Comments on the Proposed Use of the Historic Ash Grove House Accepted Until Nov. 15

Take Part in Golf Fairfax’s Autumn Tournament Traditions

fall golf
Be part of a beloved Golf Fairfax tradition! Celebrate the season on the greens at Pinecrest and Greendale Golf Courses, where beautiful autumn scenes, outdoor fun and friendly competition come together. These tournaments are the perfect way to create unforgettable memories on the fairways this holiday season. Fall Festival Scramble at Pinecrest Golf Course (Oct. 20)
Take Part in Golf Fairfax’s Autumn Tournament Traditions

Ready, Set, Book: New Registration Dates Set for Winter Camps, Classes

Kids at camp
The Fairfax County Park Authority is preparing to welcome thousands of participants to a wide variety of camps and classes this winter. In response to very helpful feedback from the community, the Park Authority has taken a few steps to improve the registration process.
Ready, Set, Book: New Registration Dates Set for Winter Camps, Classes

Trail Improvements Coming Soon to Huntsman Park

fall trails
The Fairfax County Park Authority will be conducting trail maintenance and repairs along the Huntsman Lake Trail beginning Oct. 21. The repairs include repaving work and replacement of timbers along the trail. Weather pending, the trail will reopen Oct. 26.
Trail Improvements Coming Soon to Huntsman Park

Experience the Magic of the Wetlands at Huntley Meadows Park

Experience the Magic of the Wetlands at Huntley Meadows Park
Experience the Magic of the Wetlands at Huntley Meadows Park

Sun Shines on Patriot Park North for Historic Opening Day

Patriot Park Ribbon-Cutting
Despite a few early raindrops, the sun broke through the clouds as the Fairfax County Park Authority, Board of Supervisors and hundreds of local little leaguers and their families celebrated the historic opening of the county’s new state-of-the-art baseball/softball sportsplex at Patriot Park North on Saturday, April 15.
Sun Shines on Patriot Park North for Historic Opening Day

Teens Learn To Lead as Camp Counselors In Training

Counselors in Training
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is seeking teenagers looking to develop their leadership and communication skills to become Counselors in Training (C.I.T.). The C.I.T. program is open to teens ages 14 and older and provides real-world experience in planning and leading activities for elementary-aged children participating in FCPA camps and Rec-PAC.
Teens Learn To Lead as Camp Counselors In Training

 

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