Park Authority

Department Resources

Related Resources

Park Authority Announces Public Comment Period for Royal Lake Trail Improvements

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. The documentation is available on the Royal Lake Trail Project webpage for public review, and comments will be accepted until Jan. 27, 2025. The Park Authority has been worked closely with the Royal Lake community to develop the project scope and acquire the necessary funding to initiate five trail improvement projects surrounding Royal Lake, including: Royal Lake Bridge Replacement: Replacement of the pedestrian bridge over Rabbit Branch on the north side of Royal Lake. Royal Lake to Commonwealth Boulevard Trail: Construction of a new stream valley trail connecting an existing asphalt trail north of Lakeside Park to Commonwealth Boulevard. Richardson Court to Lakeside Park Trail: Repaving the park entrance trail from Richardson Drive to the soccer and baseball fields at Lakeside Park. Royal Lake Dam to Lakepointe Drive Trail: Paving of the natural surface trail linking the asphalt trail on top of the dam to the Royal Lake Loop Trail. Lakeside Park Shade Structure: Installation of a fabric shade structure and updated picnic equipment near the playground. This segment of the project is currently underway and is funded separately through local funds (not federally funded). Funding for these projects is being provided from a variety of different sources, including the 2020 Park Bond, proffered funds and the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds program (authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act and administered by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation). The cumulative estimated project cost is approximately $1.3 million. Construction on the remaining projects is anticipated to begin in early 2025 and, weather permitting, will conclude by fall 2026. Additional project information will be published on the Royal Lake Trail project webpage as the project progresses. Royal Lake is located at 5216 Pommeroy Drive in Fairfax. For questions about this project, please email royal-lake@publicinput.com or call 703-324-8725.

Read full article

Parks Receive $2.1 Million from Foundation Donors in 2024

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. “Our partnership with the Fairfax County Park Foundation has been a tremendous support for our park system and provides a meaningful way for neighbors, businesses and other organizations to have a positive impact on our community’s most precious resources – our parks,” said Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole. “These contributions directly affect the quality of life for more than 16 million park visitors each year and are adding to the continuing legacy of Fairfax County’s award-winning park system.” Thoughtful and generous charitable contributions from individuals, foundations, businesses and other organizations have helped support numerous Park Authority projects, outreach programs and popular community events—including the Woodlands Stewardship Education Center; the Wonder Wagon Mobile Nature Center; the McLean Central Park Playground; Summer Entertainment Series; Earth Day Festival; the Moon Gate Garden at Green Spring Gardens; Invasive Management Area programs; Park Authority camp & class scholarships; the Fairfax County 4-H Fair & Carnival; Open Space Land Preservation; Commemorative Benches and Trees; Trail Building and Care; and much more! “While the number is impressive, it's what we do with the money that really matters.", said Park Foundation Board Chair Laura Eakin Erlacher, "Gifts from thousands of donors funded projects beyond what tax dollars can provide. The Foundation initiated 'The Forever Fund' long-term investment to endow the greatest needs of our future parks.” Pictured (left to right): Harry Glasgow (Park Foundation Board); Park Authority Deputy Director Aimee Vosper; Park Foundation Executive Director Bobbi Longworth; Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk; Park Foundation Board Chair Laura Eakin Erlacher; Mason District Supervisor Andres Jimenez; Park Foundation Board Vice Chair Anita Herrera; Steve Thormahlen (Park Foundation Board); Park Authority Chairman Kiel Stone; Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole; Park Authority Vice Chairman Maggie Godbold; Linwood Gorham (Park Authority Board); Mike Thompson (Park Authority Board); and Tim Hackman (Park Authority Board). The Fairfax County Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3), supports the Fairfax County Park Authority by raising private funds, obtaining grants, and creating partnerships. Visit the Park Foundation website or call 703-324-8582 for more information.

Laurel Hill Golf Club Receives 2025 Weddy Award

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. “Receiving this award again is an incredible honor,” said Event Director Marisa Devin. “At Laurel Hill, we are committed to thoughtful planning and flawless execution. From our newly renovated banquet spaces to our delicious cuisine, we strive to provide an all-inclusive, elevated experience for couples on their special day. This recognition reflects our team’s dedication and passion for creating unforgettable moments.” Nestled in Lorton’s rolling terrain, Laurel Hill Golf Club offers stunning views, a rich historical backdrop and a welcoming ambiance. The venue features a 9,400-square-foot clubhouse, including the Tower Grill restaurant and customizable event packages tailored to every couple’s needs. Its scenic landscapes provide picture-perfect settings for wedding photography. Couples and guests consistently praise the venue’s exceptional service, clear communication and attention to detail. Laurel Hill’s dedicated team, led by Devin, works to bring every couple’s vision to life. Brides & Weddings Magazine is Northern Virginia’s premier guide for engaged couples, offering planning advice and showcasing top wedding vendors. Winners of the Weddy Awards are selected by a panel of industry experts and are featured in the January 2025 issue of the magazine. Laurel Hill Golf Club is located at 8701 Laurel Hill Crest Drive in Lorton. It is operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority. For more information, visit the Laurel Hill Golf Club website.

Introducing the 2025 Indoor Trackman League at Pinecrest Golf Course

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. “Pinecrest’s Indoor Trackman League offers the perfect opportunity to stay in the game during the winter months,” Michael Mauk, the program director for Pinecrest Golf Course, said. “Players compete with friends and can improve their performance and enjoy the thrill of playing some of the world’s most famous courses—all without leaving Alexandria.” The league will feature four 9-hole rounds on these world-renowned courses: St. Andrews Old Course, Pinehurst No. 2, Bethpage Black and Pebble Beach Golf Links. Golfers have three weeks to complete each round and can attempt each course up to four times, with only their best score counting toward the league standings. Prizes will be awarded to overall winners and closest-to-the-pin competitions. There will be designated tees for men, women and juniors to ensure fair play. Registration is $40, with discounted Trackman fees of $25 for the first hour and $20 for additional hours applied to league rounds. To participate, golfers must create a Trackman account and handicap. Register for the Indoor Trackman League before the deadline on Dec. 22 Pinecrest Golf Course is located at 6600 Little River Turnpike in Alexandria. For more information or to register, visit the 2025 Pinecrest Winter Trackman League webpage.

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

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! Who Can Apply? We’re looking for farmers and producers located within a 125-mile radius of Fairfax County (with a few exceptions for hard-to-find goodies, such as dairy and organic produce). Our markets are strictly producer-only, meaning everything sold must be grown, raised or made by you. Locally sourced ingredients are preferred! Park Authority Farmers Markets do not include craft vendors or food trucks. Join us for a New Vendor Interest Meeting! Interested? Join us for a New Vendor Interest Meeting on Jan. 14, 2025, from 10 a.m. to noon. This virtual meeting will cover everything you need to know about applying, including fees, requirements and tips to make your application shine. Register online to reserve your spot! Registered participants will receive a recording of the meeting, so even if you’re not completely sure if you’ll be able to make it, it’s a great idea to register anyway. Register to reserve your spot The Fairfax County Park Authority manages 10 farmers markets at locations across the county. Markets are from mid-April until the end of December each year. Are you ready to grow with us? Visit the Farmers Markets vendor website for more details, or email us at FCPAFarmMarkets@fairfaxcounty.gov with questions.

Adapted Recreation programs ensure fun for everyone.

Buddy up for learning and fun in Park Authority swim classes.

Fun, friends and adventures await in Park Authority camps!

Little ones learn best through play in programs tailored to their interests.

From the classics to modern moves, Park Authority dance classes are always in style.

From equestrian lessons to old-fashioned fun, there's something for everyone at Frying Pan Farm Park.

Park Authority events are entertaining, educational and fun!

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or have limited mobility, there's a fitness option for you in Park Authority exercise classes.

Spark your creativity in Park Authority fine arts and crafts classes.

Cultivate your love of nature with Park Authority gardening classes.

Enjoy comprehensive classes and practice facilities year-round at Park Authority golf courses.

Yesterday’s innovation is still full of fascination at Park Authority historic sites.

Learn to glide, swizzle and stop like a pro in ice skating classes.

Learn self-defense and build confidence in Park Authority martial arts classes.

Explore the great outdoors in Park Authority nature classes.

Whether you take a hike, cast a line or guide a boat, nature's perspective always changes in outdoor recreation classes.

Retire your air guitar and learn to make some real music in performing arts classes.

Explore new places and ideas in Park Authority merit badge programs.

Team up for fun and learn a new sport.

Budding engineers and computer programmers have fun learning in Park Authority technology classes.

Learn strategic games, investigate your family history, brush up on social graces and more!

Rec Center Open House

rec center open house

Explore everything Rec Centers have to offer for FREE on Saturday, January 4! Enjoy free admission and learn more about membership all day. Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for special programming such as fitness demonstrations, sample classes, a membership table with giveaways, arts and crafts and other fun activities depending on the location. Visitors will receive a free, 7-day trial membership or be able to purchase a 30-day for $30 pass to the Park Authority's Rec Centers. Check out each Rec Center page for specific programming information.

Open House Flyer

Find a Park

Use our Park Locator app to find parks near you or filter by facility or amenities.

Park Locator

Holiday Schedules

Find out if your local park facilities and classes are open on observed Fairfax County holidays.

Holiday Hours and Class Schedules

IMPORTANT REGISTRATION DATES

Winter Camps and Classes Registration Underway

Alert:

Alert:

What We Do

Department Resources

Related Resources

Winter Class Listings Available

Browse online listings, check class enrollment and register with a few clicks of your mouse.

Winter Class Registration Underway.

Rec Center Open House

Park News

Featured Videos

Find a Park

Holiday Schedules

Park Authority Blog: Our Stories

2020 Park Bond At A Glance

FCPA An Award-Winning Park System

IMPORTANT REGISTRATION DATES

Fairfax Virtual Assistant

Related Resources