Alert:
Winter Camps Registration Underway
Registration for Winter Classes Begins Tuesday, Dec. 3, at 9 a.m.
Heads Up! The Winter Issue Parktakes magazine will hit your home mailbox the week of November 18. The web version is live.
Registering for Fairfax County Park Authority programs through Parktakes online is now even easier with an improved system that offers a new look and feel.
The Park Authority switched to an updated registration system that offers advantages for park customers providing upgraded server support, an improved mobile experience, greater reliability and more access to your account.
To get started, if you have ever registered for a class or had a membership, use the link below recover your account. If not, follow the easy step-by-step directions to create an account.
New Account
When creating an account, please fill out all the required and any optional information you wish to provide on the New Customer page. This includes information such as: name, date of birth, address, phone number and email. The system will automatically remind you to fill in the required fields. When you have completed the required fields, click Create Account, and your new account is created. You are now ready to get started!
Click to Create Account
Having trouble creating your account?
Click to Contact Us
Have you ever registered for a Parktakes class or had a membership? You may already be in the system! To see if you already have an account with us, select the Log In button in the top right of the website. Follow the on-screen link to Recover Your Account. Then, simply enter your email address in the field. If your email was on file, you will receive a message stating your password has been reset. An email will be sent to you with your randomly generated password.
You can then use your email address and password to log in to your account and verify your information and change your password. If your email is not on file, you will receive a message stating that ‘the email address you entered in the system is not found or is invalid’. Have another email address? Give it a try! If you are not able to reset your password, you will need to make yourself a new account using the steps from the previous section.
Parktakes Online is available 7 days a week.
Parktakes Online displays current coded programs available for registration. To see our complete listings for a current session, check out our E-Parktakes magazine.
Don't wait until you are ready to register for a program to create an account. You can establish an account and browse our program offerings at any time. The session listings are viewable prior to the start of registration, and that's the best time to see what interests you. Be as specific as possible when using the search filters, and note the programs you are interested in to make registration quick and easy.
To use Parktakes Online you need a valid email address and a Visa or MasterCard. The name and date of birth for each household member you wish to register must be on your household account. You can change the details of your household members in your account at any time.
You can search for and view program enrollment information in real-time, receive email confirmation of your paid enrollment, add/update household and family member information, cancel registrations; and view recent enrollment history information. Searching for programs can be done at any time.
The basic steps to follow are:
button.
Adapted programs offer a more structured environment and a lower staff ratio (typically 1:3 or 1:4). Customers in these programs typically have not yet developed the skills necessary for participation in an inclusive setting.
Registration: Register online with Parktakes Online or by phone at 703-222-4664. You may also complete and submit the Parktakes registration form located in the back of the Parktakes magazine and fax to 703-631-2004, or mail the form to FCPA/Parktakes, P.O. Box 4606, Fairfax, VA 22038-4606.
Enrollment is first-come first-served.
General Code of Conduct: Individuals enrolled in the program are expected to follow the general code of conduct (with staff support) as follows:
Additional Information: Contact 703-324-8565, TTY VA Relay 711
Types of Adapted Programs
Adapted Aquatics
The Park Authority's award-winning Adapted Aquatics Program is an individualized swimming and water activity program for adults and children with physical and developmental disabilities. Program offerings include learn-to-swim classes, aquatic exercise classes, and training for Special Olympics and Paralympic Swim team competition.
Adapted Gymnastics
A small group foundational class provides opportunities for children ages 6-12 with disabilities to develop gymnastics skills in a social, structured, and supported environment. Participants develop physical strength, motor planning, and social skills through tumbling, parallel bars, vault, trampoline, balance beam and other gymnastics activities.
Adapted Kayaking
Series of paddling classes for teens and young adults with disabilities taught on the Potomac River at Riverbend Park in a small group setting. During the winter months’ classes are taught in the indoor pool at Spring Hill Rec Center. Tandem and single kayaks available, beginners welcome!
Adapted Yoga
This class designed for individuals with disabilities ages 8 and up and focuses on teaching basic yoga positions through engaging sensory activities. Students will learn breathing techniques for physical and mental relaxation and participate in exercises to improve strength, balance and flexibility. Yoga mats are provided.
Adapted Fitness Training
A high-energy class designed for teens and young adults with developmental disabilities who can participate in a 4:1 ratio. Class focuses on teaching fitness and wellness skills in a fun and social environment. The class may include weight room exercises, team games, yoga, swimming, outdoor activities, and nutrition instruction.
Adapted Ice Skating
This foundational/transitional class offers individual support to help students with disabilities develop basic skating skills. Classes offered for ages 6 and up at Mt. Vernon Rec Center.
Adapted Tae Kwon Do
30 minute lessons at Lead by Example Fair Oaks martial arts studio. Students learn basic kicking, punching, blocking, and sparring skills and forms as they improve confidence and flexibility. Classes offered for ages 5 and up.
FCPA aquatic programs offer options for all. From infants to ageless, to people with special needs, the agency serves all levels of swimming ability and the full spectrum of aquatic interests.
Programs include:
Learn to Swim Classes for ages 6 months – 99 years of age are available in FCPA Rec Centers, serving all levels of swimming ability.
For our Learn to Swim classes, use our online selection guidelines to determine the proper class level and current class availability.
You are encouraged to repeat water skills in the bathtub at home. A key component of the program is the focus on having fun. Your instructor helps the class create an environment that is stimulating, creative, playful and safe. This will be accomplished by the development of a warm and trusting relationship between parents, children and the instructor.
For our Learn to Swim classes, use our online selection guidelines to determine the proper class level and current class availability.
Make swimming lessons and swimming with the family a positive experience. You as a parent can help prepare your child to learn to swim by:
This program is not designed to teach children to become proficient swimmers or even to survive in the water on their own. It will however, provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to orient your child to the water and to safely supervise water activities.
Rules
No matter what age your child is, there are swim skills to be learned and enjoyed. FCPA aquatic instructors strive to offer students learning experiences that are both fun and effective.
For our Learn to Swim classes, use our online selection guidelines to determine the proper class level and current class availability.
No matter what age your child is, there are swim skills to be learned and enjoyed. FCPA aquatic instructors strive to offer students learning experiences that are both fun and effective.
For our Learn to Swim classes, use our online selection guidelines to determine the proper class level and current class availability.
No matter what your age, there are swim skills to learn and enjoy. Swimming is a wonderful fitness activity, enhancing cardiovascular fitness while increasing muscle strength and endurance. People tend to learn best in an environment that is positive and fun. FCPA aquatic instructors strive to offer students learning experiences that are both pleasurable and effective.
For our Learn to Swim classes, use our online selection guidelines to determine the proper class level and current class availability.
Fewer students (3- 6 per class) means more practice and individualized attention!
Choose from:
Fewer students (3- 6 per class) means more practice and individualized attention!
Choose from:
Lap Swimming – Ages 13 to Adult - Classes for different ability levels, for people interested in:
Park Authority programs are great for learning to swim and for beginning a competitive swim or dive program.
If you or your child shows a strong interest in swimming and is swimming extremely well, for the next level you may want to consider talking to a United States sanctioned team about a program for your child or a Master’s program for yourself.
Below are some guidelines to help you find the right level program:
Water’s natural resistance adds an extra “oomph” to aquatic exercise, helping to build muscle and burn calories, but without putting strain on joints.
Aqua fitness is safe for everyone, whether you are a senior suffering from advanced arthritis or a dedicated tri-athlete using water for cross-training purposes.
Customers have three different options for participating in aqua exercise classes.
Drop-In (or pay as you go)
Aqua Exercise Flex Pass
Register for coded class in Parktakes
Good enough to guard? Ready to teach?
Looking to join the Park Authority award-winning team of lifeguards?
Apply online:
Rec Center Lifeguard:
With over 2,000 options for camps, the Park Authority is the largest provider of summer programs for children from 3-15 years old.
Camps are not just for summer anymore! Check out our teacher workday mini camps, winter break programs and spring break options! Whether it’s developing or refining sports skills, trying out a new activity, building friendships or simply having fun, our camps offer something for everyone when school is out!
For Camp Forms, Extended Care, FAQs, Refund/Transfer Policy, Summer Camp Guide, Videos and Camp Job Information, visit CAMPS
Our specialized Children’s Corner programs, for infants through preschoolers, foster creativity, coordination and social skills. Small group interaction and individualized development are emphasized, but the main focus is always on FUN! Some classes require adult participation (see program descriptions); other classes require parents to remain on-site if they are not required to be in the class with the child. (check with the instructor for details)
Also check out our school-year preschools at Lee and Spring Hill Rec Centers.
For classes and programs for older children, see the specific program category.
Dance is for everyone! You can dance your way to better health, broader social contacts, increased poise and flexibility, greater self-confidence and more. Dance is the fun way to get that regular physical activity recommended by the U.S. Surgeon General.
So pick a step and a style and start moving to the music! All classes are group lessons. For adult classes, couples are recommended. Singles are welcome in most classes.
Please remember:
The Fairfax County Park Authority offers trips and tours that vary from season to season year-round. Shopping, sporting events, festivals, day cruises, museums, beaches, New York City, railroad, historic, day cruises and winery type day tours are just some of the many trips offered.
For registration information, departure locations, policies and frequently asked questions, visit Trips - Tours
Spirit Open Equestrian teaches equestrian classes at Frying Pan for all ages and abilities. Classes are outdoors or indoors depending on facility availability. Riders should arrive 15 minutes prior to class, wear long pants, shoes or boots with heels, and dress for the weather. Helmets are mandatory. Some classes are held at Lucia Farms in Lovettsville, Va., and at the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program in Clifton, Va.
All equestrian activity participants are responsible for reading, understanding and abiding by the Frying Pan Farm Park Equestrian Center General Liability Release And Express Assumption of Risk Form.
For more information about equestrian facilities visit Equestrian
Our fitness team is dedicated to making fitness flexible and fun for all. Convenient drop-in day passes or monthly memberships entitle you to:
Training: The professional fitness team also offers several additional fee-based services to help get and keep you on track including:
We are always looking for talented trainers and instructors to enhance our professional team and bring the best in fitness to our community. To learn more, contact Liz Ittner at elizabeth.ittner@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Programs at the Farm
Meet draft horses, chickens, peacocks, rabbits, sheep, goats, cows and pigs at Kidwell Farm, Frying Pan Farm Park’s working farm of the 1930s. Programs range from farm skills for little hands to exercise, fitness, dance and fine arts. Lots of spring summer and school break camps too. There are even programs for pets. Plan a wagon ride, a rest on the porch or a tour of the farm during your visit.
Classes in this section include drawing, cartooning, studio arts, pottery, photography, needle arts and other creative outlets for all ages.
Learn how to garden in the Washington, D.C. area.
Green Spring Gardens’ educational programs focus on practical landscaping and gardening appropriate to this region. The horticulture center hosts programs for all ages. Topics range from soil and roots to the tallest of plants and everything in between. There are tea, science, nature, scout and getaway programs, too. Green Spring hosts programs, lectures, exhibits, workshops and camps that will turn your thumbs green.
All Fairfax County Park Authority golf courses are open daily year-round, except Christmas Day, weather permitting. View our seven courses and their offerings, amenities and activities for all levels from social to seasoned.
Fairfax County is American history, and our programs immerse you in the skills and customs of the past. Programs for all ages include hands-on activities such as cooking, teas, and handicrafts. From tours of historic houses, gardens and mills on the National Register of Historic Places to exhibits and studies of architecture, explore American history at historic sites across Fairfax County.
Chill out and enjoy the fun of ice skating! Learn how to skate with grace on the ice in our beginner skating classes, or increase your knowledge and skills through our advanced skating courses. We offer classes for people of all ages and abilities.
There are two different instructional progressions used for lessons, USFSA and ISI. FCPA offers the full progression of classes for USFSA and the introductory-level classes for each age group for the ISI program.
Students in one progression may change to the other progression at the appropriate skating level by using the chart below. Consult the course descriptions for more information.
| USFSA | ISI |
|---|---|
| Snowplow Sam 1 (3-6 yrs.) | Tot 1 or Tot 2 (4-6 yrs.) |
| Snowplow Sam 2 (3-6 yrs.) | * |
| Snowplow Sam 3 (3-6 yrs.) | * |
| Basic 1 (6-13 yrs.) | Pre-Alpha (7-13 yrs.) |
| Basic 2 (6-13 yrs.) | * |
| Basic 3 (6-13 yrs.) | * |
| Basic 4 (6-13 yrs.) | * |
| Basic 5 (6-13 yrs.) | * |
| Basic 6 (6-13 yrs.) | * |
| Basic 7 (7-13 yrs.) | * |
| Basic 8 (6-Adult) | * |
| Adult 1 (14-Adult) | Pre-Alpha Adult (14-Adult) |
| Adult 2 (14-Adult) | * |
| Adult 3 (14-Adult) | * |
| Adult 4 (14-Adult) | * |
| * USFSA equivalent is not available in the ISI program | |
For ice skating classes:
Private Lessons
For information on private ice skating lessons, please call the programming office at Mt. Vernon Ice Arena, 703-768-3224.
Training in martial arts gives you much more than self-defense skills. The benefits include:
You’ll find yoga, meditation, Pilates, qigong and tai chi classes in Exercise and Physical Fitness under Alternative Exercise.
For martial arts classes:
Nurture your sense of wonder in the natural world with nature and science-related classes and programs. Enjoy a campfire with a naturalist. Explore a hobby like bird watching. Learn nature photography or sketching. Expand your world into the night sky. Encounter local wildlife. Animals, plants, the earth, the sky and fun make up the programs in the natural world of Fairfax County parks.
Let’s go outside and have some fun!
Whether it’s riding a bike on a park trail, hiking in the Shenandoah National Park, kayaking on the Potomac River, wayfinding with GPS, or fishing at one of the county’s waterfront parks we’ve got your outdoor interests covered! Our outdoor recreation instructors are looking forward to meeting you and sharing their knowledge with you and your family. If it’s adventure, outdoor science, exercise, social, or relaxation your looking for, take a look at our offerings and let’s get outside!
Find outdoor programs at each waterfront park:
A 218-acre lake with fishing, rowboat rental, boat launch and bait-and-tackle sales is the centerpiece of this 888-acre park. Virginia State fishing license is required, and sailboats, gasoline motors, kayaks (unless used for fishing) and swimming are prohibited. Burke Lake is owned by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries; for regulations governing lake use, visit the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website. Other attractions include a mini golf course fully accessible to wheelchairs, sand volleyball courts, miniature train ride, carousel, ice cream parlor, picnic areas with grills and public restrooms, fitness trail, playgrounds, disc golf course, campground and 4.68-mile hiking/biking trail. Burke Lake Park grounds and restrooms are open daily year round, closed only on Dec. 25. Operating hours for attractions vary by season; call the park for information.
Miles of trails, a picturesque lake, and convenient picnic areas are big attractions of this popular park, which also features canoe, kayak and pedal boat rentals, bike rentals, a playground, a lakeside miniature golf course and a carousel. Bike or hike the 3.8 mile loop trail and finish with hotdog or ice cream treats at the snack bar. Please note:The trail section by the dam frequently floods during and after rain events; at such times, crossing is prohibited. Pavilion shelters and picnic areas with grills may be reserved by calling 703-324-8732. Swimming in the lake, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are prohibited. Pay $2 launch fee to launch your own boat – electric or no motors only. No charge to fish in the lake and stream but a Virginia State fishing license is required. The park does not sell fishing licenses, tackle or bait. Park Office open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday; closed weekends and county holidays. Park grounds, including picnic areas, playground, pavilions and trails, are open daily, year-round, 7 a.m. to dusk. Marina facilities, carousel and mini golf are open through October. For operating hours, visit the website or call the park.
For recreation and fun in western Fairfax, this 476-acre park includes a 20-acre lake with fishing, the Water Mine family Swimmin’ Hole, birthday party packages, boat rentals, carousel, athletic fields, picnic shelters and picnic areas with grills, a playground, restrooms, campgrounds, trails and a skatepark. Virginia State fishing license is required, and sailboats, gasoline and electric-powered boats and swimming are prohibited in the lake. The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole features tubing on the Rattlesnake Lazy River, a tot pool at Tenderfoot Pond, slides, tunnels, and interactive play features designed for young children. For hours and pricing, see the listing in the Attractions section. Carousel rides and boat rentals are available through September. For operating hours, visit the website or call the park. The campground, picnic areas, playground, trails and skatepark are open year-round. For picnic reservations, call 703-324-8732.
Riverbend Park has 12+ miles of trails and 418 acres of forest and meadows along the Potomac River. Row boats, canoes and sit-on-top kayaks can be rented at the park seasonally. Kayak and canoe tours and guided fishing float trips are also offered (Call for schedule and hours of operation). Anglers can fish for smallmouth bass, catfish and sunfish. Fishing tackle, rod rentals, bait and snacks are available at the visitor center. Virginia or Maryland state fishing license required for fishing (the park does not sell fishing licenses). Nature highlights include spectacular river views, seasonal and migratory birds and other wildlife. Enjoy the riverside picnic area with grills or relax on the deck overlooking the river. Grounds open from 7 a.m. and gates lock at dusk; hours posted. A boat launch is provided for kayaks, canoes and jon boats ($5 per boat or $40 for annual launch pass.
Get Creative! Whether you are a serious budding star or just want to have fun, we have something for you.
Please note:
Some classes may have supply fees so check class descriptions for details. Any supply fees are payable to instructor at first class and are non-refundable.
Our dog obedience classes help build a strong relationship between pet and handler by developing understanding and communication. Dog agility classes offer more opportunities for competitive and non-competitive activity. Flexible training methods are employed for home management, problem solving and correction. Please note:
Register the handler, not the dog; one handler/one dog per registration.
Some classes may have supply fees so check class descriptions for details. Any supply fees are payable to instructor at first class and are non-refundable.
Dog Training One-on-One
Lake Accotink Park offers individualized dog training lessons taught by an instructor with more than 20 years of experience actively training dogs, training other people how to train dogs and competing in dog sports. Sessions are customized to your dog’s level of behavioral development and tailored to your schedule. Includes a pre-session phone consultation with the instructor to determine your goals and to set a date and time for your first session. An excellent option for busy people who need more flexibility than weekly lessons can provide.
Owners of well-mannered canines can take their pets to fenced, off-leash dog parks for free play, a good run or a friendly romp with other dogs.
FCPA has eleven established dog parks:
Volunteers assist with monitoring and cleaning up the facilities, making users aware of dog park rules and regulations and reporting maintenance needs to the Park Authority.
Dog parks are open year round from 7 a.m. to 30 minutes after sunset on weekdays and from 8 a.m. to 30 minutes after sunset on weekends and Federal holidays. Neither Fairfax County nor the Fairfax County Park Authority is liable for any injury or damage caused by any dog in the off-leash area. For off-leash dog park rules and regulations, visit Dog Park Rules, or call (703) 324-8594.
Rec-PAC (Recreation for Pretty Awesome Children) is a six-week, theme-based program which operates at more than 40 elementary schools each summer for students in grades 1-6. Weekly theme-based activities include indoor/outdoor games, sports, fitness, nature, crafts and special events.
For the Rec-PAC brochure which includes fees, locations and weekly themes or for Rec-PAC jobs, visit Rec-PAC
Fairfax County parks are the perfect place to learn scouting skills. Programs meet requirements of many scouting organizations and are open to all residents regardless of scout affiliation.
To narrow your search, use your scouting level (i.e. Brownie) as a keyword in the search box.
Troops can request badges and topics not listed in Parktakes by contacting park sites directly to schedule programs. See the menu of sites and offerings.
Classes in this section are group instruction in a variety of sports including archery, basketball, fencing, football, gymnastics, soccer and racquet sports. Classes are offered at local schools, parks, Rec Centers and private vendor locations.
Archery
Learn archery basics following the 11 Steps of Success taught in the USA Archery National Training System. Determine your dominate eye, develop your technique using a string bow, and practice international-style target shooting using a recurve bow and a compound bow.
Basketball
Children will learn basketball skills and techniques that include passing, shooting, dribbling and other fundamentals of the game. Classes will include scrimmages to reinforce teamwork. Advanced basketball classes are available and will concentrate on offense and defense strategies.
Fencing
This safe sport builds muscle in the arms and legs, provides a great cardiovascular workout and improves endurance, coordination and speed. Students will be schooled in proper footwork, handwork and strategy.
Football
Our football classes are a non-contact version of the game. Learn the basics of positions through passing, kicking, and receiving. This class includes rules, theory and flag games. Please note: Tennis shoes are required.
Soccer Classes
Soccer is truly a world sport with 204 countries enjoying the game. Learn the beginner techniques or enhance your skills, we offer classes for all levels of ability. Students should wear shin guards, regular tennis shoes, and bring a standard soccer ball.
Tennis Classes
So, you want to improve your game but you don't know which class is appropriate for you? Check the following for the right tennis match with your skill level. For all tennis classes, students must supply their own racquets and two cans of tennis balls.
And More!
Baseball, Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Pickleball, Volleyball, other racquet sports.
Connect to fun with everything from Game Design to 3D Printing.
Some classes may have supply fees so check class descriptions for details. Any supply fees are payable to the instructor at first class and are non-refundable.
A little bit of everything! Classes in this category include Bridge, games, manners, financial literacy, geneology, babysitter training and anything that does not fit any place else! Check the Children’s Corner for classes for little ones!
Some classes may have supply fees so check class descriptions for details. Any supply fees are payable to the instructor at first class and are non-refundable.
| Season | Registration | Class/Camps |
|---|---|---|
| Winter Camps 2024/2025 | Registration Begins Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024 | Camps Run Dec. 8, 2024-Feb. 17, 2025 |
| Winter Classes 2025 | Registration Begins Tuesday, Dec.3, 2024 | Classes Begins Jan. 4, 2025 |
| Spring 2025 | Registration Begins Feb 4, 2025 | Classes Begins Mar. 15, 2025 |
| Summer 2025 | Registration Begins Apr. 22, 2025 | Classes Begins June 7, 2025 |
| Fall 2025 | Registration Begins Jul. 29, 2025 | Classes Begins Sept. 6, 2025 |