The Fairfax County Park Authority in Burke, VA, provides residents with access to a wide array of parks, facilities, programs, and events. Managing over 400 parks and facilities throughout the county, including golf courses, lakes, nature centers, and historic sites, the Park Authority’s mission is to enhance the physical, mental, and social well-being of Fairfax County residents through enriching recreational experiences.
Established in 1950 in response to the county’s rapid growth and the increasing need for parkland, the Park Authority is governed by a nine-member board appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The organization employs more than 1,000 staff members, including park managers, program coordinators, and maintenance workers, to ensure the parks are well-maintained and safe for visitors.
The parks managed by the Fairfax County Park Authority offer a variety of recreational activities for people of all ages and abilities. From playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, and sports fields to golf courses, the parks serve as hubs for community recreation. Popular parks such as Burke Lake Park, with its 218-acre lake for fishing and boating, and Lake Accotink Park, offering fishing, boating, and hiking, attract large numbers of visitors. These parks also provide family-friendly amenities like a miniature train and an antique carousel.
In addition to traditional parks, the Park Authority manages several nature centers that offer educational programs focused on environmental stewardship and conservation. The Hidden Pond Nature Center, for example, showcases exhibits on local wildlife, live animal displays, and nature programs for visitors of all ages, including a summer nature camp for children.
The Fairfax County Park Authority also manages several historic sites and museums, such as George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens and the Sully Historic Site. These historic locations offer interactive exhibits, tours, and events that allow visitors to explore the rich history of Fairfax County and the surrounding region.
The organization is dedicated to inclusion and accessibility through its Parks and Rec-Your Path program, which provides adaptive recreation services for individuals with disabilities. This program ensures that all residents can benefit from activities such as adaptive aquatics, fitness classes, and sports leagues.
Beyond recreation, the Fairfax County Park Authority plays a key role in conserving natural resources. Initiatives like stream restoration, reforestation, and the preservation of historic sites demonstrate the organization’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The Park Authority also promotes sustainability in its operations through the use of solar power, rain gardens, and other eco-friendly technologies.
The Park Authority operates various parks in the Burke area, including Ox Hill Battlefield Park, Lake Accotink Park, and the South Run RECenter. Each park offers unique amenities. Ox Hill Battlefield Park commemorates the Battle of Chantilly with trails and interpretive displays, while Lake Accotink Park provides opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, and summer concerts. The South Run RECenter boasts an indoor pool, fitness center, and sports courts, along with a variety of fitness classes for all ages.
Other nearby parks include Meadowood Recreation Area, which offers hiking and equestrian trails, and Hidden Pond Nature Center, which focuses on environmental education. Fountainhead Regional Park provides expansive outdoor recreational options, including hiking, boating, and camping across 2,000 acres.
Through its parks, programs, and historic sites, the Fairfax County Park Authority serves as an essential resource for residents of Burke, VA, and the surrounding communities. Its commitment to providing accessible recreational opportunities, preserving the environment, and offering educational programs ensures that residents can enjoy these parks for generations to come.2