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This is the official page for the Fairfax County Park Authority.
Mission: The Park Authority’s mission is to set aside public spaces for and assist citizens in the protection and enhancement of environmental values, diversity of natural habitats and cultural heritage to guarantee that these resources will be available to both present and future generations. Our vision is to create and sustain quality facilities and services which offer citizens opportunities for recreation, improvement of their physical and mental well being, and enhancement of their quality of life.
Come to Lake Fairfax Park on Nov. 6 for an evening campfire & s’mores the whole family will enjoy. Explore the wonders of the natural world with nature walks, interactive activities & animal presentations. For 3 to adult. Cost $12. https://bit.ly/37b35Yi
Walk, bike or drive over... Oak Marr's Haunted Mini-Golf returns this weekend: Oct. 30 and 31. 💀 Reserve your spot today: https://bit.ly/3k5JNHv
We're hiring! Find available jobs in the park at: http://bit.ly/FCPAjobs?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social
Today marks 50 years since Michael and Belinda Straight conveyed their house and 18 acres to the Fairfax County Park Authority. The Straights’ generous gift marked the end of almost 200 years of private ownership of the estate and the beginning of its transformation into Green Spring Gardens. https://bit.ly/2Ud5hYn
Congratulations to Reston Community Center on earning your CAPRA accreditation! We are proud to have so many outstanding parks and recreation providers here in Fairfax County.
Reston Community Center is honored to announce it has earned national accreditation, a mark of RCC meeting the field’s highest standards for service to the community. http://bit.ly/NRPAhonor
"I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."
- Anne of Green Gables
📷: Don Sweeney
Oak Marr's Haunted Mini-Golf returns on Oct. 30 and 31. Sign up for a spot at https://bit.ly/3k5JNHv
Love Lake Fairfax in the fall.
📷: Don Sweeney
Bats, snakes and spiders... it's their week to shine! In this week's chalk challenge, use chalk to draw spooky, silly or friendly wildlife on your sidewalks. Send us pics and you could be featured on our social media!
🔴 Email: [email protected]
🔴 Message us on social
🔴 Tag #fairfaxchalkchallenge
The parks put on quite a show this time of year. 🍂 Check out the fall foliage by boat, bike or boardwalk! Let us know your fav park to check out the fall foliage, or message us your fall pics in the parks! https://bit.ly/32eI4qB
Are you up for a history mystery? Know what this is? It was used in the Dranesville area about 100 years ago. It spent some time in a store, where people would visit it briefly, and then later it moved to a house where people would use it as they dropped by to say hello or for lunch. And when they dropped by, they'd drop something in the box. Know what it is?
###xooo###ooo###ooo###ooo###
Voting was different back then. This is a ballot box from the 1920s.
It's story and the details are at https://bit.ly/2Zs0QJw
Nothing like a ripe persimmon to kickstart your morning.
During the fall, find the persimmon trees and there's a chance you'll find raccoons.
📷: Jane Gamble
#fairfaxparks #fairfaxcounty #raccoons #wildlife #wetlands #photooftheday #huntleymeadows #parks
Q: How did Green Spring Gardens get its name?
A: https://bit.ly/2IHfB7B
“What’s in a name? That which we call a roseBy any other name would smell as sweet.”— William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, 1-2) What’s in a name? A lot. It’s how others i…
It's time! The Burke Lake mini golf course has been transformed to goblin golf this weekend! Join us Oct. 24 and 25 for a frighteningly good time! https://bit.ly/3kkh6GR
Take in the views at our flagship Laurel Hill Golf Course this weekend and find out why it's a favorite among golfers... especially in the fall. https://bit.ly/3of64VE
There's a virtual Park Authority Board meeting at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020. Details at https://bit.ly/2HqZydZ.
Today we present #42 of 50 reasons to love Green Spring: History. 50 years ago this month, Michael and Belinda Straight conveyed the Historic House and 18 acres to the Fairfax County Park Authority. Call to schedule a “Visit with the Historian” and step into the 1784 Historic House to learn more about the park’s rich history. https://bit.ly/35tEZ6Q
Oak Marr's Haunted Mini-Golf returns on Oct. 30 and 31. Sign up for a spot at https://bit.ly/3k5JNHv
Green Spring Gardens making your fall a colorful one.
📷: Laura Strecker
#Greenspring #greenspringgardens #fairfaxcounty #fairfaxparks
The best places in Fairfax County to see fall color. We're adding this view of Lake Mercer to this list. https://bit.ly/2IClZNH
📷: David Ochs
Just crawlin' through the week to Friday...
📷: Don Sweeney
https://bit.ly/30BOTnF
Goblins are coming. This scene looks calm and quiet now, but just wait. Oct. 24 and 25 brings out the ghouls for Goblin Golf at Burke Lake Park's mini-golf course. Get details and secure a reservation today. https://bit.ly/2SYo607
Keep the kids busy on their student holiday on Nov. 2 & 3 with a mini-camp in Burke Lake Park. Campers age 8 to 12 will enjoy activities such as archery, disc golf, mini golf, games, and crafts. Cost is $140. https://bit.ly/36KWXpB
On Nov. 1, head on over to Colvin Run Mill to watch the blacksmith fire up his forge and work with hammer and tongs to make iron tools and utensils. This free demonstration is appropriate for all ages, and no reservations are required. https://bit.ly/340SnBL
Equestrian lessons at Frying Pan Farm Park.
Sully Historic Site is open for private tours. Sign up your household, family group, or pod to tour the 1794 historic house or the outbuildings. Save your slot now. https://bit.ly/3dBuILh
Happy Trails Tuesday! The Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail (GCCCT) runs through some of the county's most scenic areas, beginning on the Potomac River and extending south to Laurel Hill, formerly known as Lorton Prison. Hikers, joggers, equestrians, strollers and cyclists use the 40 miles of trail for recreational and commuter needs. Find trail maps, info and more at https://bit.ly/34dA9gi #ffxtrails
Pod people? Nope. Pumpkin people. Come make a fun scarecrow for the holidays this weekend at Sully Historic Site. There are still some slots open on Saturday between 10am and 3pm. Reserve a spot at https://bit.ly/31qaGhS
Learn fundamentals of astronomy through a webinar on Oct. 29. The Analemma Society will give you the basics to better enjoy these clear fall and winter nights. Hosted online on Zoom, the program is for 8 and up. Cost is $6. https://bit.ly/3ls2cP6
Oak Marr's Haunted Mini-Golf returns on Oct. 30 and 31. Sign up for a spot at https://bit.ly/3k5JNHv
This magnificently lit photo was an honorable mention award winner in the National Wildlife Federation's 2019 photo contest. Handsome Meadow Katydid at Huntley was taken by Barbara Joan Saffir of Fairfax. Barbara is a Fairfax Master Naturalist and a roving naturalist volunteer at Riverbend Park. She wrote to us that the photo highlights the DMV's "INCOMPARABLE — and invaluable — Huntley Meadows Park, because it is the most dependable place to protect birds, and for families and photographers to enjoy and document those birds year-round."
It's not a bad place for bue-eyed, rainbow-colored insects, either.
https://bit.ly/2vKssMA
📷: Barbara Joan Saffir
#kathydid #fairfaxparks #fairfaxcounty #parks #insects #huntley #huntleymeadows #outdoors #nature #photography #naturephotography #nova #northernvirginia #virginia #virginiaisforlovers #photooftheday
Happy anniversary, Green Spring Gardens! 🎉 This month, the popular park is celebrating 50 years as one of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s premier destinations. Learn how you can help celebrate: https://bit.ly/33Gh7z0
This is a destructive, invasive insect that hasn't been seen in Fairfax County, but it is in Virginia. If you see a spotted lanternfly, please contact the Fairfax County Urban Forest Management Division at 703-324-1770, TTY 711, or email [email protected]. For details, please see https://bit.ly/2GWzc2H.
📷: Lawrence Barringer, PA Dept. of Agriculture, bugwood . org
More than half of vehicle-deer accidents occur from October through December. Deer are on the move. Please drive carefully. Details at https://bit.ly/3iTBZHc
All aboard! It’s Fun Day Monday in the parks! Get 20% off tickets for carousels, mini golf and the Burke Lake Train train. Buy tickets in advance; on-site tickets are only be available if activities do not sell out online. https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fundaymonday
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The Fairfax County Park Authority was awarded the 2010 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, the park's and recreation industry's highest honor.
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We're hiring! Find available jobs in the park at: http://bit.ly/FCPAjobs?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social
All aboard! It’s Fun Day Monday in the parks! Get 20% off tickets for carousels, mini golf and the Burke Lake Train train. Buy tickets in advance; on-site tickets are only be available if activities do not sell out online. https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fundaymonday
Hurry on over to register for one of our haunted mini golf events! We're not saying you HAVE to wear a costume... but it sure would make it more fun! 👻 Burke Lake (Oct. 24-25): https://bit.ly/2SYo607 👻 Oak Marr (Oct. 30-31): https://bit.ly/3k5JNHv
You play in the parks... come work in the parks! The Park Authority is hiring for full- and part-time positions. Explore jobs and apply online today! http://bit.ly/FCPAjobs?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social
The results are in! The first-ever NasCOW race was held at Frying Pan Farm today. 🐄 Which cow moooved to the finish line the fastest? Watch to find out. And a big thank you to all who participated in this fun fundraiser presented by the Friends of Frying Pan Farm Park! 👏
Happy Trails Tuesday! Today we’re spotlighting the Ronald E. Craven Trail at Royal Lake Park - a popular spot for families, strollers and pups! The 1.75-mile loop stretches to almost two miles by taking optional side trails, such as hiking along the top of the nearly quarter-mile dam instead of along its base. Bikes are prohibited on the natural-surface trail, which has steep grades in spots, steps, quite a few tree roots, and even a tree or two in the middle of the path. Access the trail from Royal Lake Park or Lakeside Park, where you’ll find picnic tables, a playground, a basketball court and a multi-purpose athletic field. #ffxtrails https://bit.ly/2V1r5Vk
What kinds of critters might you see on a hike at Huntley Meadows? Find out as the park’s own Dear Malcolm discusses what to expect on a visit to the forests and wetlands at Huntley. If your kids have a question for Dear Malcolm, send it [email protected].
Today’s Trails Tuesday spotlight is Laurel Hill Park. The trails were constructed by the International Mountain Biking Association in 2007 and are maintained by our volunteer partners from the Mid Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts - MORE. The nearly 10 miles of trails on the former Lorton Reformatory property primarily serve mountain biking, equestrian and pedestrian users - including these young bikers! Popular trailheads are located at the Laurel Hill Equestrian Center and the Giles Run Meadow Park. #FFXtrails https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/trails/trail-buddy
You play in the parks... come work in the parks! The Park Authority is hiring for full- and part-time positions. Explore jobs and apply online today! http://bit.ly/FCPAjobs?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social
A parks bond is on the November ballot. Check out this video to learn more.
You play in the parks... come work in the parks! The Park Authority is hiring for full- and part-time positions. Explore jobs and apply online today! http://bit.ly/FCPAjobs?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social
A day at the driving range is fun for all ages! Fully covered bays and kid-sized clubs available at Burke Lake Golf Center and Oak Marr Golf Complex. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf
RECenter members and guests are welcomed with new safety protocols. Make your reservation, wear your mask, and get moving!
Meet at the driving range. Swing into an outside family fun day to celebrate #nationalgolfmonth No experience needed. All balls and buckets are sanitized after each use. Open late! #BurkeLakeGolf #OakMarrGolf Follow us @golffairfax #juniorgolf #familygolf https://bit.ly/30ixnVn
Join Educator Dani M. as she explains Tropical Storm Isaias' impact on Colvin Run Mill. Keep an eye on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/ffxparks for a longer video on the history of flooding around Colvin Run Mill.
Two farmers markets to choose from for tomorrow! 🍅🍍🥑https://bit.ly/2JAB5Bg
Our number one priority is keeping our guests and staff safe! Check the Park and Play Safety Guidelines we have in place to make it happen! #parkandplay @TheNGCOA @VSGA1904 @women_oc @LPGAAmateursWDC @LPGAGirlsGolf @PGA @GolfFairfax https://bit.ly/2MLfPcv
When the Park Authority needed masks for essential workers in the parks, dozens of our employees answered the call and got to work! More than 5,000 masks have been made and distributed to employees in the parks and other agencies in Fairfax County. #WeAreParksAndRec
Oak Marr Fitness Director Hannah has an adorable partner for her yoga workouts ... who's not at all interested in demonstrating downward dog. 🐕
Need a rainy day activity to get the whole family moving indoors? Check out this easy Roll the Dice Workout from South Run RECenter's Jessica G. For more ideas on at-home fun and fitness, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/virtual.
Our final winner in the 2020 Fairfax Parks Poetry Contest is JoonWon Lee of Oakton, a sixth-grade student at Oakton Elementary School. JoonWon’s inspiring pledge to the planet is one that we hope everyone will consider making this Earth Day. 🌍 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/poetry Fairfax County Park Foundation
Next up in our poetry showcase is Fairhill ES 6th grader Eleanor Kim - a winner in our grades 6-8 category. Eleanor’s poetic words transport us to the shores of Burke Lake and inspire us to clean up the world “little by little, hand in hand.” www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/poetry Fairhill Elementary Fairfax County Park Foundation
Our virtual poetry showcase continues with Sophie Yamaoka of Annandale - a 4th-grade student at Canterbury Woods Elementary School. Sophie’s colorful and inspiring words about planet Earth won her a top spot in our poetry contest for grades 3-5. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/poetry Canterbury Woods Elementary School, Fairfax County Public Schools Fairfax County Park Foundation
Jackson Stear of Burke, a 5th-grade student at Fairview ES, is the first of our poetry contest winners for grades 3-5. You just can’t help but smile while listening to this talented young man share his thoughts on taking care of local parks. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/poetry Fairfax County Park Foundation
Next up in our virtual poetry showcase is Ali Dane of Springfield, a first-grade student at Garfield Elementary School. Ali’s purr-fectly inspiring poem about cleaning up litter was a winner in our youngest age division. 😻 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/poetry Garfield Elementary School PTA - Springfield, VA Fairfax County Park Foundation
Our virtual poetry showcase kicks off with our youngest winner. Zahra Quraishi of Ashburn is a kindergarten homeschool student from Ashburn, VA. It’s a family affair for Zahra; her big sister Zoya won in this same category last year! www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/poetry Fairfax County Park Foundation
It's #MakeItMonday! Check out this Tote Bag tutorial from Hidden Oaks Nature Center – using only two materials! Try it at home and be sure to message/tag us with pics of your creations. For more ideas on at-home exploration, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/virtual.
To all the girls finding your passion in our parks, in the classroom and in our communities... we see you. And we can't wait to see what you have in store for us. #internationalwomensday
The recent rains have turned many of our quiet waterways into fast-moving rivers, leaving some trails impassable. This video is from Lake Accotink yesterday. Please use caution in the parks and report park damage here: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/tree-removal 📷: EA Dustin #turnarounddontdrown
Crush your workout routine with a mix of everything at the RECenters. 🏊♀️⛹️♂️🏋️♂️ 30-day pass for $30 through Dec. 31 for new members!
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