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.

Department Resources

Related Resources

Cross County Trail, New Amenity Celebrated on National Trails Day

People cut ribbon on new facility
Cross County Trail, New Amenity Celebrated on National Trails Day

Park Authority To Hold Community Meeting for Wakefield Tennis, Pickleball Courts

Wakefield Courts
The Fairfax County Park Authority will be hosting a virtual community meeting on Tuesday, July 9, at 7 p.m., to present a proposal to enhance both pickleball and tennis opportunities at Wakefield Park. The meeting will be streamed live on the county’s Public Input platform.
Park Authority To Hold Community Meeting for Wakefield Tennis, Pickleball Courts

Golf Fairfax Is Rolling Out the Green Carpet for Women’s Golf Month

women playing golf
Golf Fairfax is excited to celebrate Women's Golf Month in June. Women golfers of all levels are invited to participate in a variety of special events and offers designed to enhance their golfing experience and grow participation in the game. Special Offers:
Golf Fairfax Is Rolling Out the Green Carpet for Women’s Golf Month

Take Care of Yourself and Nature at Scott’s Run Nature Preserve

Park Staff talks to park goers
Summer is getting into full swing and residents are taking advantage of the warm weather by spending more time outdoors at their local Fairfax County parks, including Scott’s Run Nature Preserve.
Take Care of Yourself and Nature at Scott’s Run Nature Preserve

Summer Sprint in the Park: A Free Family-Friendly Event!

People cheering on runners
Join the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Reston Runners for the Summer Sprint in the Park! This is a FREE family-friendly event featuring a 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run on Saturday, June 29 at Lake Fairfax Park. The 5K race kicks off at 9 a.m., followed by the 1-Mile Fun Run at 9:15 a.m.
Summer Sprint in the Park: A Free Family-Friendly Event!

Summer Rec-PAC Spaces Still Available, Sign Up by June 14

Camp Counselor with kids
Don’t let the summer pass you by, sign up your elementary school-age child for summer Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children)! Register by June 14 to receive a discounted rate and seize the opportunity to participate in this affordable Fairfax County Park Authority program.
Summer Rec-PAC Spaces Still Available, Sign Up by June 14

Join the Composting Craze, Receive a Countertop Collection Container at Park Authority Farmers Markets

composting bin giveaway
Are you looking to get into composting with the Fairfax County Park Authority Farmers Markets? If so, don’t miss out on our free countertop compost bin giveaway June 12-16! During this time, farmers market customers who dispose of food scraps at any of our 10 Farmers Markets may receive a free compost bin.
Join the Composting Craze, Receive a Countertop Collection Container at Park Authority Farmers Markets

Stars, Stripes and Everything Nice at Lake Fairfax Park

Lake Fairfax Fireworks
Join the Fairfax County Park Authority at Lake Fairfax Park for our annual Independence Day celebration – this year on June 29! The event begins at noon, allowing viewers the opportunity to find the perfect spot in the park to enjoy the daylong activities. Both bicyclists and pedestrians are free. Parking fees are $15 per vehicle if purchased before the event or $20 per vehicle at the gate.
Stars, Stripes and Everything Nice at Lake Fairfax Park

Get Ready for Summer Fun at the 4-H Fair and Carnival at Frying Pan Farm Park

4-H Fair & Carnival
Enjoy a day packed with fun and farm animals at the annual 4-H Fair and Carnival at Frying Pan Farm Park from Aug. 1-4.
Get Ready for Summer Fun at the 4-H Fair and Carnival at Frying Pan Farm Park

Fireflies Light Up the Summer Night Sky

fireflies
The transition from spring to summer brings the enchanting light show of fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, to the evening skies. These fascinating insects use bioluminescence to attract mates, with males emitting a distinctive green flash. Firefly eggs and larvae also glow. However, despite their beauty, fireflies are declining due to light pollution, pesticide use and habitat loss.
Fireflies Light Up the Summer Night Sky

Park Authority Wins NAGC Award for Excellence in Communication

Park News
The Fairfax County Park Authority was awarded a Blue Pencil and Golden Screen Award by the National Association of Government Communicators (NAGC) for excellence in government communications. The Park Authority was awarded third place in the educational/instructional video category for a tutorial video highlighting the use of the new Park Amenity Locator.
Park Authority Wins NAGC Award for Excellence in Communication

Phase 1 of Mount Vernon Woods Park Renovation Beginning in June

Mt. Vernon Woods
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin Phase 1 of the renovation at Mount Vernon Woods Park. The Phase 1 contractor, DeBorn Construction, will mobilize on site with active construction activities beginning in June 2024. Weather pending, Phase 1 construction is expected to conclude by early 2025.
Phase 1 of Mount Vernon Woods Park Renovation Beginning in June

ADA Accessible Trails Coming Soon to Jefferson Manor Park

Jefferson Manor Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin work to construct new Americans with Disabilities Act accessible trails at Jefferson Manor Park. The contractor, TMG Construction, is expected to mobilize on site with active construction activities beginning in mid-July. Weather permitting, construction is anticipated to conclude in early fall 2024.
ADA Accessible Trails Coming Soon to Jefferson Manor Park

Mastenbrook Grant Approved To Fund Diamond Infield Renovation at Parklawn Park

Parklawn Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board has approved matching funds in the total amount of $12,945 to support the renovation of the diamond infield at Parklawn Park through the Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program.
Mastenbrook Grant Approved To Fund Diamond Infield Renovation at Parklawn Park

Commemorate Juneteenth with the Park Authority at Sully Historic Site

Juneteenth Celebration
Join the Fairfax County Park Authority for a special Juneteenth commemoration event at the Sully Historic Site on Wednesday, June 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free event will honor the significant contributions of people, originally under enslavement and continuing after emancipation, to the operation of Sully as a home and farmstead.
Commemorate Juneteenth with the Park Authority at Sully Historic Site

Park Authority Waterpark, Spray Park and Pool Open May 25

Park Authority Waterpark, Spray Park and Pool Open May 25
Park Authority Waterpark, Spray Park and Pool Open May 25

New Orange Tee Club at Burke Lake Golf Center

New Orange Tee Club at Burke Lake Golf Center
New Orange Tee Club at Burke Lake Golf Center

FCPA Now Accepting Resident Curator Applications for Ash Grove and Lahey Lost Valley Properties

Ash Grove
The Fairfax County Park Authority is now accepting applications from prospective resident curators for the rehabilitation and long-term maintenance of the Ash Grove and Lahey Lost Valley properties. The submission period will remain open until 30 days after an initial application is received. The Park Authority will issue an announcement once the first application is received to announce the closing date for applications.
FCPA Now Accepting Resident Curator Applications for Ash Grove and Lahey Lost Valley Properties

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve Opens in Time for Memorial Day Weekend

Scott's Run
Welcome back! The Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is reopening just in time for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend! The popular location situated against the bank of the Potomac River has been closed for several weeks to accommodate an emergency project to clean an obstructed county wastewater facility and make necessary repairs to maintain service.
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve Opens in Time for Memorial Day Weekend

Work Begins on Franconia District Park Athletic Courts May 28

Franconia Park Courts
The Fairfax County Park Authority expects to begin athletic court revitalization work at the Franconia District Park on May 28. The project will include leveling and smoothing the asphalt at the basketball and shared-use pickleball and tennis courts, as well adjustments to the gates and fencing as needed. New seal coat, color coat, and playing lines will also be applied to the courts.
Work Begins on Franconia District Park Athletic Courts May 28

Park Authority Honored by Commonwealth Archaeologists

Award winners
The Fairfax County Park Authority was awarded the 2023 Michael Hoffman Award from the Council of Virginia Archaeologists. The award, named in memory of a former professor of anthropology at the University of Virginia, recognizes organizations for significant contributions to archaeological site investigation and historic preservation within the Commonwealth.
Park Authority Honored by Commonwealth Archaeologists

The 49th Annual Antique Car Show Rolls onto Sully Historic Site!

Sully Antique Cars
Rev up your engines and mark your calendars! Father’s Day is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to celebrate than at the 49th Annual Sully Antique Car Show. This year’s event promises a spectacular day filled with live entertainment, a variety of food vendors, an eclectic craft market, a bustling flea market, and, of course, hundreds of stunning antique cars.
The 49th Annual Antique Car Show Rolls onto Sully Historic Site!

Ready, Set, Groove to the Summer Entertainment Series

music group
As the summer heats up, so does the sizzling list of performers set to entertain across Fairfax County as part of the Summer Entertainment Series. The 2024 performers will bring all ages together to enjoy a variety of entertainment as a community.
Ready, Set, Groove to the Summer Entertainment Series

Stay Cool This Summer: New Shades Coming to Monticello Dog Park

Monticello Woods Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon install two sun shades with seating at Monticello Dog Park. These shades, funded by Braddock District Supervisor James Walkinshaw’s office, will offer residents and their furry companions reprieve from the summer sun as they enjoy the park.
Stay Cool This Summer: New Shades Coming to Monticello Dog Park

New Restrooms To Open at Laurel Hill Central Green June 1

Laurel Hill Central Green
The Fairfax County Park Authority will officially open the new restroom facility at Laurel Hill’s Central Green on Saturday, June 1 at 9 a.m. The ribbon-cutting will be held in conjunction with the Park Authority’s National Trails Day event commemorating 10 years of the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail.
New Restrooms To Open at Laurel Hill Central Green June 1

Park Authority, Caps Open New Inline Skate Rink at Lake Fairfax Park

Lake fairfax park skating rink
The new inline skate rink at Lake Fairfax Park is open for business! The Fairfax County Park Authority and Washington Capitals joined to commemorate the opening of the inline skate rink on Saturday, May 11 with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony and free hockey skills clinic. It was a fantastic event with representatives from the Park Authority, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Washington Capitals and an active community ready to drop the puck!
Park Authority, Caps Open New Inline Skate Rink at Lake Fairfax Park

Renowned Wildlife Biologist, Filmmaker To Visit Green Spring Gardens

Dr. Rebecca Kormos
Dr. Rebecca Kormos, renowned wildlife biologist, filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer, is set to engage audiences in a thought-provoking discussion centered around her latest book "Intertwined: Women, Nature, and Climate Justice" on Saturday, June 1, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Green Spring Gardens.
Renowned Wildlife Biologist, Filmmaker To Visit Green Spring Gardens

Visit a Park Authority Rec Center for FREE All Day on May 22

kids at the rec center
Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers offer a variety of resources and amenities to help maintain and improve your health and wellness and connect with community. The Park Authority invites all residents of Fairfax County to come, see and get connected during its Rec Center Open House Events on Wednesday, May 22.
Visit a Park Authority Rec Center for FREE All Day on May 22

Sip, Paint and Unwind at Laurel Hill

People sipping wine at a golf course
Enjoy an evening of relaxation and creativity at Laurel Hill Golf Club’s Sip and Paint event on Thursday, May 23, from 5 to 7 p.m.
Sip, Paint and Unwind at Laurel Hill

Park Authority To Commemorate 10th Anniversary of the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail with National Trails Day Celebration

People walking on trails
This National Trails Day, join the Fairfax County Park Authority, Rep. Gerry Connolly, local leaders and the community in celebrating 10 years of the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail! Join us on Saturday, June 1, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Laurel Hill Central Green to celebrate the Park Authority’s more than 330 miles of trails.
Park Authority To Commemorate 10th Anniversary of the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail with National Trails Day Celebration

Celebrate Gardening with the Friends of Lake Accotink Park

Pollinator Garden
Calling all nature enthusiasts and gardening aficionados! Join in celebrating National Gardening Day at Lake Accotink Park on Saturday, June 1 with the Friends of Lake Accotink Park between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Celebrate Gardening with the Friends of Lake Accotink 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

Keep Off the Naughty List While Playing With Your New Toys in the Parks

New Golf Clubs
Children of all ages are excited to try out their new gadgets, gizmos and toys at their favorite local park. Just remember, our parks are places for everyone to have an enjoyable time in nature. Park rules are designed to ensure a pleasant experience for our guests, as well as the protection of wildlife that call parks their home.
Keep Off the Naughty List While Playing With Your New Toys in the Parks

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

Explore the Wonders of the Wetlands at Huntley Meadows Park

Wetlands Awareness
Explore a thriving wetland sanctuary during Wetlands Awareness Day! Join us in celebrating the significance of Huntley Meadows Park and get connected with the treasured homes and habitats of the wildlife throughout the park on Sunday, May 7, from noon to 4 p.m.
Explore the Wonders of the Wetlands at Huntley Meadows Park

Poetry in the Parks Comes to Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

ECLP
It’s National Poetry Month and Arab American Heritage Month. Celebrate both at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park with the first in a series of Poetry in the Parks events.
Poetry in the Parks Comes to Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

Roberta Korzen, CPRP

Meet Roberta, Marketing Research and Analysis Manager Name: Roberta Korzen, CPRP Position: Marketing Research and Analysis Manager, Marketing and Communications Office, Fairfax County Park Authority
Roberta Korzen, CPRP

Hannah Hutton

Meet Hannah! Name: Hannah Hutton Position: Business Support Analyst, Park Services Division, Fairfax County Park Authority
Hannah Hutton

Marcos Suarez

Meet Marcos! Name: Marcos Suarez Position: Area 4 Manager, Park Operations Division, Fairfax County Park Authority
Marcos Suarez

Gina Sando

Get to know Gina Sando! Name: Gina Sando Position: Visitor Services Manager, Resource Management Division, Fairfax County Park Authority.
Gina Sando

Charlie Allen

Meet Charlie! Name: Charlie Allen (They/Them/Theirs)  Position: Intern, Access and Inclusion Branch, Park Services Division, Fairfax County Park Authority.
Charlie Allen

Kimeshia Junkins

Meet Kimeshia! Name: Kimeshia Junkins  Position: Operations Branch Manager, Park Services Division, Fairfax County Park Authority
Kimeshia Junkins

Fishing for Future Generations

Fishing for Future Generations
Fishing is a sport that everyone can participate in and brings many people pleasure. Fish is also one of the healthiest dinners people may choose to eat. Our fisheries are not a finite resource, so we must learn to protect them to ensure that future generations may enjoy the sport. Here are a couple of tips to follow that will help each angler be a steward of the angling community.
Fishing for Future Generations

Tips and Tricks to Fishing in the Fall Season

By Jordan Jenkins. As the cooler weather comes along, some people may think fishing in Fairfax County is over, but the bite is just getting started! Fall is one of the best times of the year to get out on the water and catch some fish. In the fall, it is common for fish to begin stocking up and feeding more so they can get nice and big before the winter. Before getting out on the water in the fall months, there’s a few tips and tricks to the trade that can help you make fall your favorite fishing season.
Tips and Tricks to Fishing in the Fall Season

How to Target Individual Species

By Dan Grulke. Fairfax County lakes offer a variety of species from bass to bluegill. These fish have preferences, so you may need to choose specific baits to entice the fish you are trying to catch. Using basic tackle and techniques, here are a few tips and tricks on targeting specific fish. Largemouth Bass Largemouth bass can be found in most lakes in Virginia and the U.S. They are one of the most targeted freshwater species of fish out there. There are many ways to catch these fish, which have been proven effective.
How to Target Individual Species

Winners Named in 2022 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest

On January 1-2, 2022, the Fairfax County Park Authority joined park systems across the country to encourage everyone to start 2022 with a hike. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. Despite wet weather, thousands of people came out to explore the Fairfax County Park Authority’s trail system and take steps toward improved health and fitness in the new year. More than 170 photos were submitted as part of the First Hike Fairfax 2022 Photo Contest presented by the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County
Winners Named in 2022 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest

Water Mine Goes to the Dogs in End-of-Summer Celebration

Dog Daze
As the Lake Fairfax Park Water Mine closed for the season to humans, dogs got their chance to take a plunge, chase tennis balls in the water and make new canine friends. More than 1,000 dogs and 3,000 people joined in the fun.
Water Mine Goes to the Dogs in End-of-Summer Celebration

Untold Stories: Freedom Hill Draws Family from Near and Far

Freedom Hill
The thirst for history from a more personal vantage point was on full display July 31, 2021, when a large crowd, including family members from several states, park neighbors, members of the Park Authority Board and staff, local officials, and History Commission members, gathered at Freedom Hill Park in Vienna for the inaugural Untold Stories program.
Untold Stories: Freedom Hill Draws Family from Near and Far

More Than Just Fishing

More Than Just Fishing
By Dan Grulke In its simplest form, fishing is casting a line with a lure or bait into the water in hopes of catching a fish. If that were all that was involved in this sport or hobby, few would continue to participate in it. So the real question is, “Why do people go fishing?”
More Than Just Fishing

 

Close
Fairfax Virtual Assistant

Related Resources