C.M. Crockett Park
Yes, coastal beaches are great, but life may be better at the lake. Head out to this lakeside park in Midland for fishing, boating, hiking and orienteering, and be sure to stop by the park’s sanctuary of native trees. // 10066 Rogues Road, Midland; 540-422-8870; fauquiercounty.gov/government/departments-h-z/parks-and-recreation/facilities/parks/c-m-crockett-park
Riverbend Park
Spend the day near the Potomac River at this Great Falls area park, a scenic destination for watersports, hiking and family programs with a visitor center well-stocked with snacks, nature books and fishing gear. // 8700 Potomac Hills St., Great Falls; 703-759-9018; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend
FALL FUN: The park hosts a number of interactive events in the fall, like Kids Night Out, featuring night hikes, educational games and a pizza party. // Oct. 12 and Nov. 9; $28; ages 5-12
Lake Fairfax Park
Spend some time outdoors in Reston at this popular lakefront park, where overnight camping availability allows you to take full advantage of boating, birdwatching, fishing and more. // 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston; 703-471-5414; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lake-fairfax
Burke Lake Park
This nearly 900-acre park in Fairfax Station is loaded with activities for kids and adults, including boating and hiking, along with more than 5 miles of shoreline for fishing. In summer, the carousel and train rides are a hit among tots. // 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station; 703-323-6600; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burke-lake
Silver Lake Park
Experience 230 acres of nature, complete with a 23-acre lake, at this park in Haymarket. Search for largemouth bass and bluegill fish, or take a long walk on the park’s 4 miles of pedestrian and equestrian-friendly trails. // 16198 Silver Lake Road, Haymarket; pwcgov.org/government/dept/park/silverlake
Pohick Bay Regional Park
Bask in views of Pohick Bay at this Lorton haven for all things outdoors. From fishing and hiking to kayak tours and golfing, Pohick Bay can easily make for a day or weekend of fun in the natural world. And forget pitching a tent, this all-seasons park also offers rental cabins for a bit of glamping. // 6501 Pohick Bay Drive, Lorton; 703-339-6104; novaparks.com/parks/pohick-bay-regional-park
Lake Ridge Park Golf and Marina
This Prince William County park sits right along the Occoquan Reservoir, offering an entry point to the Occoquan Water Trail, which offers 40-miles of scenic rowing. Enjoy it aboard a kayak, canoe or jon boat, and try out their 18-hole mini golf course or nine-hole course when you need a break from the water. // 12350 Cotton Mill Drive, Woodbridge; 703-792-8992; pcwgov.org/government/dept/park/lakeridgepark
Lake Accotink Park
Find nearly 500 acres of natural resources in Springfield at Lake Accotink Park, which regularly hosts educational events for kids and adults alike. The marina is the big draw, but hiking trails and a miniature golf course are also hits. Canoe, kayak and pedal boat rentals are available through Oct. 14. // 7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield; 703-569-3464; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lake-accotink
