The Park Authority has begun reopening of parking lots and parks in the park system to be open for the Memorial Day weekend. Park Authority staff will begin the process of clearing barricades and opening parking lots at all 427 parks for the community on Wednesday, May 20 through Friday, May 22. These parks will reopen for limited use in accordance with COVID-19 safety guidelines from the Virginia Governor’s office and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

All facilities and restrooms will remain closed at this time.

“We greatly appreciate the patience and cooperation shown by County residents during this closure,” said Park Authority Executive Director Kirk Kincannon. “We understand this has been a challenge to many who enjoy the park system on a regular basis. And it will be important that everyone follows the safety and physical distancing guidelines recommended by health authorities.”

Park visitors are asked to adhere to the physical distancing guidelines and small group guidelines (do not exceed ten people), to avoid closed facilities or apparatus, and to keep in mind that restrooms and park buildings will not be open at this time.

There are certain amenities that will remain closed at this time due in large measure to health safety concerns. Park Authority amenities that are closed are:

• Restrooms and all portable restrooms

• Dog parks

• All playgrounds, including Clemyjontri Park and Chessie’s Big Backyard

• Nature centers, visitor centers, horticultural centers, and RECenters

• Volleyball and basketball courts

• Athletic fields

• Water fountains are turned off

To get the latest information about how the coronavirus is impacting parks and find answers to many frequently asked questions, go to the FCPA Coronavirus Response page on the Park Authority website. For more information, contact the Park Authority at 703-324-8700 or send an email to parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.