Chatham is one of Fredericksburg's historical treasures. The house was a Civil War hospital and Union headquarters during the mid-1800s. The house has ten distinct rooms, most of which house unique exhibits and tours. Chatham's grounds also serve as a headquarters for the U.S. Department of the Interior's National Park Service.
Leesylvania State Park opened in 1992, and is bordered by the Neabsco Creek, the Potomac River and Powells Creek. Five hiking trails are at this park, as well as a segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. Individuals may go boating or fishing at the park or enjoy lunch at one of the picnic pavilions. Small tents are allowed on the campgrounds, but prior arrangements must be made.
Situated on 25 acres of land, Hidden Pond Nature Center and Park is an oasis of woodlands and wildlife. The one-acre pond is home to turtles, fish, frogs and many birds, among other animals. Featuring tennis courts, a playground and a nature center, Hidden Pond Park is the perfect place to bring children of all ages. Visitors will be able to see live animal exhibits in the nature center, as well as have the opportunity to purchase items such as educational books and food. Fishing is permitted at Hidden Pond Park, but all fish caught must be released back into the pond.
This location is the headquarters of the American Horticultural society, one of the country's oldest gardening organizations. Founded in 1922, it exists to provide gardening and horticulture information, upholds standards of social responsibility and works in the interest of environmental stewardship. The headquarters is located on the River Farm property that once belonged to George Washington. It is between Mt. Vernon and Old Town Alexandria, and features 25 acres of gardens, grounds and picnic areas overlooking the Potomac. It is open to the public on weekdays and Saturdays in the spring and summer. Admission is free, but donations are always appreciated. Group activities are welcome but parties should make a reservation. A schedule of activities and events is available on the organization's website.
This recreational park offers boating, access to the Occoquan River, golf, mini-golf and jogging/biking trails. Boat ramps, docks, and rentals are also available and boaters are urged to check ahead of time for availability.
Lake Fairfax Park, operated by Fairfax County, is a bucolic, 476-acre setting located in Reston. Some of the park's features include trails, a campground, a carousel, an 18-acre lake with boats for rent, and many picnic and play areas.
The park is also home to the Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole - a water park that offers slides, wading pools and other water activities for the whole family.
Park admission is free, but the Water Mine, carousel and boat rentals have entry fees.
There are numerous soccer and lacrosse fields, so the park is a busy spot for sports teams on weekends.
Wilburdale Park features a Little League Field and a basketball court; however, neither is lit. The park also has a picnic area, a playground and a tot lot. Usage of sites is free, on a first come, first served basis. It is possible to reserve a specific area through the Fairfax County website.
