With summer right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about a family camping trip.
Why not head out to Burke Lake Park?
Whether you live in Virginia or near the East coast, Burke Lake Park offers golf, water sports, volleyball, amphitheater, miles of trails for hiking or biking, miniature golf, a playground, a parked train, a snack bar, picnic tables with grills, and, of course, camping.
Where is Burke Lake Park?
Burke Lake Park is located in Fairfax County, Virginia southeast of Fairfax Station and about 20 miles southwest of Alexandria. It’s a popular park because of its beautiful shade trees and easy access to Washington D.C.
Places to Camp in Burke Lake Park
There are 100 campsites with shade, dump stations, fire rings, picnic tables, grills, and bathhouses with showers, sinks, and toilets.
There is a maximum limit of 25 feet for recreational vehicles without any hookups or room for slide outs. There is no pull through spaces, but plenty of tent camping and pets are allowed. Reservations can be taken for groups of 20 or more, but otherwise it’s a first come first served basis.
What are some things to do in the park?
Burke Lake
Burke Lake is a beautiful lake with 218 acres. Visitors can bring a canoe, electric-motor boat, or a paddle/rowboat for some of the best fishing in the state.
A fishing pier is easily accessible if that’s your preference. There’s plenty of shorelines o cast your pole from the bank. The lake has a marina and public launch ramps, but swimming is not permitted.
The Golf Club
How is your golf game? The Golf Club has an excellent 18-hole par 3 course, a driving range, and a clubhouse. The clubhouse has a snack bar for your convenience. This course is terrific if you are a beginner!
Trails
There’s a scenic 4.68-mile trail that goes around the lake, beginning at the marina. The trail is generally unpaved and is mostly flat, making it an excellent place for runners, bikers, joggers, and anyone who loves to walk.
Enjoy the shade trees as it helps to keep the trails cool. The most famous track is the 2.98-mile cross country race course where the historic Monroe Parker Invitational takes place.
Where are nearby places to visit?
Go Ape South Run
For those of you who are more adventurous, Go Ape South Run is located in Fairfax County in Springfield’s South Run Park.
Challenge yourself with the treetop adventure as you make your way through this aerial high ropes course, climb up cargo nets, swing, cross rope bridges, and soar down the dramatic zip line, about 40-50 feet above the ground.
You’ll love this treetop venture with the six zip line course that will take you anywhere from two to three hours to complete. Are you up for a family challenge?
Fairfax Station, Railroad & Caboose
Visit this nearby museum with its fascinating model train displays. You’ll learn a little bit about the Civil War history and the role that the railroad played.
The Alexandria and Orange Railroad was important during the war for supplies and medical evacuations. Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, began her humanitarian efforts here.
You’ll also learn why the caboose played such a vital role in railroad operations. Kids especially love the trains!
Busch Gardens
Busch Gardens is in nearby Williamsburg and has loads of things to do for families. Do you enjoy thrilling rides? Hold on to your hat! You’ll love the roller coasters, restaurants, family shows, and unique attractions, depending on the season.
There are seven different coasters made from wood and steel, including the Invader, the Alpengeist, Apollo’s Chariot, Griffon, Loch Ness Monster, Verbolten, and the Tempesto.
Each coaster offers its own unique experience with twists, turns, curves, drops, and beautiful views of the park. Other rides include The Battering Ram, Der Autobahn, Da Vinci’s Cradle, Der Wirbelwind, the Flying Machine, Kinder Karussel, Le Scoot, Mach Tower, and the Rhine River Cruise.
During the summer, there’s a fabulous water park with mega slides, a lazy river, and themed play areas. Take a break and enjoy the cool water during the heat of the day.
Enjoy these Restaurants near Burke Lake Park
Boxwoods Restaurant, located in Fairfax, is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s known for its favorite American foods and offers a buffet, as well as an a la carte menu.
The chef chooses the freshest ingredients from nearby farms and vineyards to offer visitors both healthy and delicious meals. Go hungry as it’s well worth the visit!
Le Mediterranean Bistro, located in Old Town Fairfax, offers French Moroccan meals for those looking for romance and elegance.
The chef shops with local farmers to get the freshest ingredients possible to pass along some of the area’s most delicious cuisine. This restaurant offers both lunch and dinner.
Oh George! Tables and Taphouse is more of burgers, fries, and beer place. This fun restaurant specializes in custom burgers, tasty fire roasted pizza, and salads.
It’s a great place to take your family or just go to try one of their 24 craft brews. Since it is located in the University Mall, after your meal, take a stroll and do a little shopping.
Have you loaded up your camper or tent? Burke Lake Park is waiting for your family to make wonderful vacation memories!
Watch this short video for a little more information about the park. It’s a very safe and fun place to bring your family!
