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.
Wanna go on a scavenger hunt? Extension Master Gardeners at Green Spring Gardens have created a hunt for kids. Drop by any day when the horticulture center is open and ask for the hunt list. Find the plants, animals and structures on the list and return it to the front desk to get a prize. http://bit.ly/2vLe8Dw
If you’re heading to the Burke Farmers Market, please be aware of temporary changes to the market layout to accommodate VDOT construction. The changes are expected to last three weeks, weather permitting.
Hop aboard a wagon and get ready to roll on a nature scavenger hunt! Search for birds, butterflies, and flowers at Riverbend Park tomorrow! 🐦🦋🌷
http://bit.ly/2LiRxbg
Beat the heat with a trip to The Water Mine at Lake Fairfax this weekend! Whether you’re toddling in the bubbling waters, sliding down three stories of fun or relaxing in the lazy river... there's something for everyone at this Reston water park! https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/watermine
Natural art surrounds us in the parks. But get inspired by local artists with art exhibits at Huntley Meadow Parks and Green Springs Gardens. 📷: Michael DeBois (artist currently exhibiting at Huntley Meadows. #gameonjuly
http://bit.ly/32e4MPU
Some local favs take the stage tomorrow morning for our #free Arts in the Parks series! Don't miss music, puppets and magic in the parks. 10-10:45am. 🎶
➡️ Burke Lake: Rocknoceros
➡️ Ellanor C. Lawrence: The Great Zucchini
➡️ Mason District: The Goodlife Theatre
http://bit.ly/2KNlqzn
Braddock Nights continues TONIGHT with two separate summer concerts. 🎼 Join us at Lake Accotink in Springfield for rock and blues from Karl Stoll & The Danger Zone. Or head to Royal Lake in Fairfx for light classical/jazz music from Brass 5. See event details in comments. Braddock Supervisor John C. Cook
Come horse around and visit the animals of Frying Pan Farm Park. 🐴 The Herndon farm is open daily for #FREE fun ... rain or shine! 🌧 #gameonjuly
http://bit.ly/326Qnoi
We’re gearing up for another night of wet weather, but are also still dealing either the following impacts from Monday’s rains:
• Riverbend Park’s boat ramp is now open but boat rentals won’t open until at least this weekend.
• Portions of the Potomac Heritage Trail at Riverbend Park are closed.
• Scotts Run West Parking Lot is closed.
• Pinecrest Golf Course is closed.
Please stay safe during tonight’s storms. Downed trees and damage may be reported at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/tree-removal.
Woo hoo! We're having so much fun with our summer bucket list that we added a bonus #free activity in the parks! During July, head to the Braddock Park Batting Cages from noon-3 p.m, Monday-Friday. Mention Park & Rec Month to get a free token! ⚾ #gameon http://bit.ly/31aloXZ
Borrow a FREE Nature Trail Backpack at Frying Pan Farm Park when the Country Store is open. It’s packed with information that will guide you on an investigation through the woods along the park’s nature trail. The journey starts and ends at the Country Store.
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#fryingpan #fryingpanfarmpark #scavengerhunt #nature #naturelovers #farmlife
Looking for more #free adventure this summer? Explore the colorful and vibrant Green Springs Gardens, complete with ponds, trails, children's garden and horticultural library! #gameon http://bit.ly/32e4MPU
Have you earned your Discovery Trail prize pack yet? Pick up a map, visit eight parks and redeem for this coupon book full of FREE summer fun in Fairfax parks. The books are $90+ in value and include:
✔️ One free night stay at a campsite
✔️ One free carousel ride
✔️ One free wagon ride
✔️ One free train ride
✔️ One free boat rental
✔️ One free boat tour
✔️ One free pedal boat rental
✔️ One free round of mini golf
✔️ One free RECenter pass (includes Cub Run RECenter leisure pool and Mt. Vernon Ice Rink)
✔️ Plus a chance to win a bicycle from Spokes!
What are you waiting for? Get on the Discovery Trail today! https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/discovery-trail-map
I’m really lichen to learn more about our lichens-- aren’t you? Join us for the “Lichens Hike & Sketch” program at Huntley Meadows on July 20. ✏️️ https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/park-news/2019/psa192
Next up on our summer bucket list of #free activities: explore a children's nature trail! Chessie's Trail at Lee District Family Recreation Area includes woodland friends, musical instruments, animal tracks and more! #gameonjuly www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gameon
Park crews across the county are working to clean up from the July 8, 2019, rain storm that soaked the metro-Washington, DC area. The morning storm caused damage and debris buildup throughout the Fairfax County Park Authority's 427 parks and 334 miles of trails.
Colvin Run Mill, Great Falls, VA
Colvin Run Mill, Great Falls, VA
The nice thing about Golf Camp at Twin Lakes is that you get to use more than one ball. I mean, eventually one of them is going to go in the hole, right? http://bit.ly/2NuApkJ
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#golf #twinlakesgolfcourse #fairfaxgolf
Thanks to Twitter user @ycwhite for sharing this video of debris on the Cross County Trail under the 495 overpass (near Wakefield Park). Please use caution as our crews work to clear debris from trails across the county following yesterday's rains. To report downed trees or damage, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/tree-removal
The following facilities remain closed following Monday’s rain event. Park teams are still assessing damage and working to re-open all sites and amenities are quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience.
• Riverbend Park’s boat ramp
• Portions of the Potomac Heritage Trail at Riverbend Park
• Scotts Run West Parking Lot
• Bridge at Lewinsville Park
• Pinecrest Golf Course
• Pond trails at Green Spring Gardens Park
To report a downed tree or additional park/trail damage, please visit http://bit.ly/2NRTb5E
(Photo is Pinecrest Golf Course in Annandale)
Take a giant leap and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first moon walk! 🌜 Learn more about our three fun lunar programs in July: http://bit.ly/2XCmclr
There are 427 parks and 334 miles of trails within the Fairfax County Park Authority system. We rely on the public to help report damage so we may address as quickly as possible. If you discover a downed tree in the parks, please do not attempt to remove it on your own. If you discover a flooded trail, please do not attempt to cross. Downed trees and trail/park damage from this morning's event may be reported at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/tree-removal
Scotts Run Nature Preserve receives a lot of runoff when it rains. Even the slightest bit of rain can turn the serene stream into a raging river. Always use caution.
Fairfax County Government Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department Fairfax County Police Department
“Georgetown Pike, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve. @WTOPtraffic @WTOP https://t.co/BHGknx5cUS”
It's a bit wet at Colvin Run Mill Historic Site today. The mill race is under water on the right side of this photo. That area to the left of the fence is usually a grass field.
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#colvinrunmill #flood #rain
![[UPDATED 7/8/19, 10:55 a.m.] Due to the current weather conditions, the following parks and amusements will have delayed...](https://img.govserv.org/1/v/t1.0-0/p480x480/67013422_2416071218450689_1887170932934443008_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&_nc_oc=AQnkDSLtVZU8rE6tL53YzDUXDcD5JJBeXL9KrRX3Nnvo0KuP9mT-Z2GpBYsZilLgWqxgWW7slzu6FI23ULzKNeXw&_nc_ht=scontent.xx&oh=2f40dbd8408a7e57ebbe0a275cfee097&oe=5DBA07D4)
[UPDATED 7/8/19, 10:55 a.m.] Due to the current weather conditions, the following parks and amusements will have delayed opening today, July 8, 2019. We will continue to monitor conditions and update throughout the day. Please call golf courses for status before visiting. Use caution in parks and on trails as many areas are currently flooded.
➡️ Burke Lake Park – Train, Carousel and Marina
➡️ Lake Accotink Park - Carousel and Marina
➡️ Lake Fairfax Park- Carousel and Marina
➡️ Clemyjontri Park - Carousel
➡️ The Water Mine Family Swimming Hole
➡️ The Batting Cages at Braddock Park
➡️ Our Special Harbor Sprayground
➡️ Martin Luther King Pool
http://bit.ly/32eI4qB
Please use caution on the roads AND park trails today! #turnarounddontdrown http://twitter.com/NWS_BaltWash/status/1148222752593256448
“If you are in this FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY area, travel will be EXTRAORDINARILY dangerous, including washouts, #flooding over roads. Stay out of low areas, if in a low area that may flood, seek higher ground. Stay off the roads if at all possible. This is not the "usual" flooding.”
The Water Mine’s opening is delayed until noon today due to inclement weather.
Go fish! Grab a rod and expect tight lines in our county parks! Fishing is free, but a license is required for ages 16+. Be sure to let us know what you caught! #gameon http://bit.ly/32e4MPU
A morning swim at #HuntleyMeadows. 📷: Jane Gamble
If your kiddos haven’t visited Nature Playce yet, you’re missing out! Enjoy interactive indoor displays or explore the outdoor play space at Hidden Oaks Nature Center, all for free! Plan your visit today! #gameon http://bit.ly/32e4MPU
Congrats to the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team on your World Championship! Is there a future world champion practicing in our parks right now? We hope so! 🇺🇸
With so much to do at Burke Lake Park, you might need more than a day! https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burke-lake
Once in a while you just need a cute-dog-in-a-park photo. Leashed dogs are welcome in all Fairfax County Park Authority parks. 📷: Don Sweeney http://bit.ly/2Nr6Oc7
The blacksmith fire flares tomorrow at Colvin Run Mill! Make plans to stop by for this free demo. There will also be mill tours, free carving classes and more! #gameon http://bit.ly/32e4MPU
Has your child been this close to a turkey? Have you? You can be at #FryingPanFarmPark. http://bit.ly/2QkZ88W
Hot enough for you? Cool off with a trip to Our Special Harbor in Lee District Family Recreation Area! http://bit.ly/322C9Ff
Hidden Oaks Nature Center is royally raising monarchs. They also have tobacco hornworms which are much larger and can be handled by children more easily. Visit http://bit.ly/32e4MPU for more ideas on free summer fun! #gameon
Looking for a longer hike this weekend? We have several trail suggestions in our new blog. Read it at http://bit.ly/326WUiR
Red cardinals, blue heron and white blossoms await you at Huntley Meadows! Celebrate the holiday with a boardwalk stroll through the wetlands! #gameonjuly http://bit.ly/326JljF
Happy Independence Day!!
Carve out a memory in the parks this summer! Enjoy free wood carving lessons July 7 and 21 at Colvin Run Mill; nominal charge for wood blanks. #gameonjuly https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/colvin-run-mill/events
This is a monarch caterpillar in a J hook at Hidden Oaks Nature Center. It’s ready to split its exoskeleton one last time before creating a jade house with golden windows -- a chrysalis. The caterpillar then will pupate into an adult monarch butterfly over the next ten days. Hidden Oaks is raising monarchs. Drop by soon to see nature at work. http://bit.ly/2vLlQ0G
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#hiddenoaks #hiddenoaksnaturecenter #monarch #monarchbutterfly #monarchcaterpillar #chrysalis
Tree down in a park or on a trail? Please report damage but do not attempt to remove the tree on your own. Report the incident with our online form.
➡️ https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/tree-removal
Are you ready to accept a mission to the moon? How about to #HiddenOaks Nature Center? That’s where you’ll find our Discovery Trail Map rocket ship and astronaut this week. See U There. http://bit.ly/2Vz9ovn #fcpamoonwalk
This is a terrific point of view - unless, of course, you're a mosquito or a fly. Life's all about perspective, eh? 📷: Jane Gamble
12055 Government Center Parkway
Fairfax, VA
22035
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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Beat the heat with a trip to The Water Mine at Lake Fairfax this weekend! Whether you’re toddling in the bubbling waters, sliding down three stories of fun or relaxing in the lazy river... there's something for everyone at this Reston water park! https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/watermine
Come horse around and visit the animals of Frying Pan Farm Park. 🐴 The Herndon farm is open daily for #FREE fun ... rain or shine! 🌧 #gameonjuly http://bit.ly/326Qnoi
Have you earned your Discovery Trail prize pack yet? Pick up a map, visit eight parks and redeem for this coupon book full of FREE summer fun in Fairfax parks. The books are $90+ in value and include: ✔️ One free night stay at a campsite ✔️ One free carousel ride ✔️ One free wagon ride ✔️ One free train ride ✔️ One free boat rental ✔️ One free boat tour ✔️ One free pedal boat rental ✔️ One free round of mini golf ✔️ One free RECenter pass (includes Cub Run RECenter leisure pool and Mt. Vernon Ice Rink) ✔️ Plus a chance to win a bicycle from Spokes! What are you waiting for? Get on the Discovery Trail today! https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/discovery-trail-map
Thanks to Twitter user @ycwhite for sharing this video of debris on the Cross County Trail under the 495 overpass (near Wakefield Park). Please use caution as our crews work to clear debris from trails across the county following yesterday's rains. To report downed trees or damage, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/tree-removal
With so much to do at Burke Lake Park, you might need more than a day! https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burke-lake
Check out all these folks who have done the #fcpamoonwalk on our Discovery Trail this year! Pick up a map, collect stamps and redeem them for a prize pack for even more fun in the parks this summer! 🚀 https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/discovery-trail-map
A remnant of the Manassas Gap Railroad. It had quite a history for a rail line that didn't quite get to be a rail line. Its story is in our latest blog at http://bit.ly/2KKbcQh. #manassasgaprailroad #railroad
Jeff and Charlie did not let yesterday’s storms ruin their day. The draft horses cooled off in the rain while enjoying an afternoon snack at Frying Pan Farm Park.
Fairfax County’s Annual Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony took place today at the new Public Safety Headquarters and we were humbled to be able to watch from the Park Authority offices next door. Fairfax County Police Chaplain Michael Shochet delivered this moving rendition of “You Raise Me Up.” Today we remember those who have given their lives in service to our home, we thank those who serve to protect us, and we are honored to have you as our neighbor. Fairfax County Police Department Fairfax County Government
Big thanks to everyone who came out to Sully Historic Site to celebrate SpringFEST Fairfax. We had a blast celebrating Mother Earth and can't wait to do it again next year!
Join us Saturday, April 27, 2019 (10am-4pm) at Sully Historic Site in Chantilly for our annual SpringFEST Fairfax Celebration! Bring the whole family to celebrate our beautiful planet with free entertainment, interactive exhibits, vendors, food trucks and more! Admission is free; parking is $10. www.springfestfairfax.org
Wondering where all the noise comes from? Vernal pools. This is what they look like – ponds of stable water in the woods. This one is right next to a park hiking path. The occasional rings on the surface of the water are frogs, perhaps wood frogs. The tweeting sounds are spring peepers. Those sounds will be joined soon by calls of the upland chorus frog, which sound like running your finger over the tines of a comb.
May luck be with you in all of your days, And green surround you every step of the way. Take some time to find a little green in the parks today! ☘️
Still figuring out summer camp plans? Give your kids a summer to remember in Fairfax parks. From kayaking to cupcake wars, we've got something for everyone! Explore options online or join us Saturday, March 9 for our annual Camp Expo! www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/camps
Looking to change up your fitness routine? Check out paddleboard yoga at South Run RECenter. Find classes now: http://bit.ly/2IUDQ1I
Fairfax County is beginning a strategic planning process to shape the future together – and we want to hear from you! What are your hopes for the future of our community? Challenges you see in living here? Top priorities? Take the short survey or join a community conversation in person. https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/strategicplan
Our parks were closed today but our talented animals at Frying Pan Farm Park spent the day making a video with advice on snow day fun. (Hint: it includes playing in snow!)
This weekend's snow storms seem to have mostly fizzled out, but we've got 30 seconds of tranquility in the parks thanks to last month's snow storms! Whether you're a snow lover or just need a moment of zen... enjoy!
How do you turn sap into maple syrup? Check out this video to learn more and then head to Colvin Run Mill this Sunday (and two more upcoming weekends) to see sap boiled down to syrup over an open fire. Oh... and did we mention you can taste maple syrup over cornbread made from the mill's cornmeal? YUMM! 🍁 https://bit.ly/2MIQBL3
Our friends at Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department train for ice rescues but please don’t become a victim. It may look safe but looks can be deceiving. Educate kids on the dangers of playing on ice and remember that playing on frozen ponds/lakes is prohibited in Fairfax County parks. #stayofftheice ow.ly/xR2a30nnS6P
The winter blooms and beautiful trails of Green Spring Gardens are even more serene when blanketed in snow! 😍
Spoiler alert! Cute animals playing in the snow! 🐎 ❄️ 🐎 ❄️ Our parks are closed today but our farmers at Frying Pan Farm Park tend to animals 365 days a year. Big thanks to Farmer Paul for taking care of the animals and sending us these snowy farm scenes. 👏 👏 👏
Check out the finalists in our First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest! Voting for the People's Choice winner remains open through Thursday, January 10 at 11:59 p.m. Cast your vote now! For voting link or to see all 275+ New Years Day hike photos, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/first-hike
Our fans love snow and animals so it’s”no”w surprise that this video from Frying Pan Farm was one of our #top9 most-liked Instagram posts for 2018. Draft horses Jeff and Charlie enjoyed their snow day! Follow us at http://bit.ly/2Sgpt8n to see more park scenes in the new year.
There’s time to save on post-holiday sales in the parks! Save on merchandise at Colvin Run, Frying Pan, Green Spring, Hidden Oaks, Hidden Pond, Riverbend and Sully. 50% off holiday merchandise (where available); 20% off general merchandise (excludes grain). Thru Jan. 6.
There’s still time to save with post-holiday deals at some of our park stores! Enjoy 20 percent off regular merchandise and 50 percent off holiday merchandise at seven park stores through Jan. 6! Excludes Colvin Run Mill grain; May not be combined with other offers. Score a good deal while supporting Fairfax County parks!
Visit your local park store for our post-holiday sales! Save up to 50% on merchandise at Colvin Run, Frying Pan, Green Spring Gardens, Hidden Oaks, Hidden Pond, Riverbend and Sully. Enjoy 50% off holiday merchandise (where available) and 20% off general merchandise (excludes Colvin Run Mill grain). May not be combined with other offers. Sale ends January 6. Check individual parks for store and holiday hours. Happy shopping!
It’s a beautiful frosty morning at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon. What winter discoveries can you make at a park near you?
The new Valis Family Golf Learning Center at Pinecrest Golf Course in Annandale is officially open! Supervisor Penny Gross, Fairfax County Park Foundation, Fairfax County Government bit.ly/2w9Wkml
Learn about the culture of Virginia’s first residents when our annual Virginia Indian Festival returns to Riverbend Park this Saturday, September 8 (10 a.m. - 4 p .m.)! The festival features eight American Indian tribes from Virginia, including the Rappahannock dancers and drummers. Enjoy performances, hands-on activities, live demonstrations or the marketplace for American Indian crafts, pottery and jewelry. Advance purchase tickets: $8. Regular tickets: $10 each.
An excited pup splashes in the fountains at the Fairfax County Park Authority's 2017 Dog Daze event at The Water Mine in Lake Fairfax Park (Reston, VA).
Thank you to everyone who celebrated Farmers Market Week with us earlier this month. Our farmers and artisans work endlessly every day to make our markets successful. We loved the opportunity to show our appreciation to our vendors, volunteers and loyal customers. Thank you again!
Great info from our friends over at Fairfax Fire and Rescue. Learn the signs and symptoms of heat stroke from Lieutenant/Paramedic Chris Kroboth and Firefighter/Paramedic Monica Harding. Also learn what to do if you find someone is suffering from heat stroke.
Virgil & Ginny flew into the Herndon Farmers Market this morning and had a blast celebrating local, fresh finds for Farmers Market Week. They'll continue visiting other markets this weekend before landing at Green Spring Gardens on Monday. If you spot them, snap a picture and post to Instagram to win prizes. #virgilandginny https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/discovery-trail-map/
All aboard! We officially cut the ribbon on Clemyjontri Park’s new trackless train last weekend. Take a virtual spin on the train here or, better yet, head to the park this week and experience yourself!
A few clouds can’t stop us from setting up for this week’s Fairfax County 4-H Fair and Carnival at Frying Pan Farm Park. Tents went up yesterday and more fair prep happens today! https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/frying-pan-park/4-h-fair
Happy National Dance Day! We caught you movin' and groovin' all summer long at our outdoor concerts! Check out our performance finder and celebrate by dancing at a concert in the parks today. https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/
Are you choosing the best insect repellent to prevent mosquito or tick bites? Our friends at the Fairfax County Health Department recently stopped by a local store to share tips for selecting and applying repellent. Check out their advice and be sure to stay protected in the parks this summer!
“I want to leave this game in a better place than when I entered it.” -Bryce Harper, at opening of Bryce Harper All-Star Complex, 7/16/18 Mission accomplished Bryce Harper! Good luck in the #homerunderby! MLB Washington Nationals #allstarweek
One of our staff members spotted a very interesting bird at his feeder yesterday. This little bandit didn't seem to be bothered by the fireworks in the distance or the audience watching him scale the pole. Want to keep raccoons out of your bird feeder? Use a squirrel baffle at least four feet up the pole to prevent animals from climbing it. Please don't grease the pole as a deterrent - it can get stuck in birds' feathers and leave them vulnerable to prey.
Fairfax County Land Use Planning
12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 730Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board
12011 Government Center PkwyAsian American Law Enforcement Association -
12099 Government Center PkwyNational Capital Region Incident Management T
12099 Government Center ParkwayFairfax County Office for Children
12011 Government Center Pkwy, Ste 920Fairfax County Volunteer Solutions
12011 Government Center Pkwy Suite 708Fairfax County Student Human Rights Commissio
12000 Government Center Pkwy Ste 318Fairfax County Citizen Corps Council - Social
12000 Government Center Parkway,
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3900 Jermantown Rd, Ste 100
Fairfax County Citizen Corps Council - Social
12000 Government Center Parkway,
Fairfax County Office to Prevent and End Home
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12099 Government Center Parkway
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10455 Armstrong St, Ste 123
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