The right park can make for a great day with the family. Northern Virginia offers plenty of parks including many great state parks just a short drive away.

Whether you’re looking for a park with great views or with plenty of activities, you’ll find it in Northern Virginia. Here’s a look at some of the best Northern Virginia Parks for families to enjoy.

15 Top Northern Virginia Parks for Families

1. Lake Anna State Park

Maybe the best Northern Virginia Park for families to enjoy, Lake Anna State Park offers trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Your family can rent a cabin or enjoy camping here. There’s a beach with swimming and plenty of fishing options throughout.

2. Cameron Run Regional Park

One of the best Northern Virginia Parks for families to enjoy, Cameron Run Regional Park offers mini-golf, batting cages, and so much more. It’s found in Alexandria and you can even enjoy the Great Waves Waterpark here.

3. Bull Run Regional Park

A park covering 1,500 acres, Bull Run Regional Park offers all types of things for families to enjoy. The park has beautiful hiking trails including the Bull Run Occoquan Trail. You can play disc golf or enjoy the playground, as well.

4. Leesylvania State Park

This park was also known as the Freestone Point at one time. When you visit Leesylvania State Park, you will get to enjoy plenty of outdoor fun. It’s filled with trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. You can enjoy boating, canoeing, and kayaking here, along with great fishing options.

5. Mt. Zion Historic Park

Enjoy the history found within the Mt. Zion Old School Baptist Church at Mt. Zion Historic Park. This park also offers many other historic landmarks with plenty of programs and guided tours throughout the year.

6. Potomac Overlook Regional Park

With beautiful woodland trails, the Potomac Overlook Regional Park offers plenty for families to enjoy. You can explore the Educational Gardens or take in the views of the flora and fauna. The park usually offers summer concerts and summer camps for kids, too.

7. Mason Neck State Park

A park offering hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and more, Mason Neck State Park is on a peninsula. It’s known for the good group camping and many visit the park for the peaceful surroundings.

8. Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park

Another great Northern Virginia Park, the Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park offers a 32-mile grave horse trail, along with a 45-mile trail for running, cycling, and skating. It’s a park with plenty to do and amazing views of the Virginia countryside.

9. Widewater State Park

Found in Stafford County, this park is one of the top choices in NOVA. Widewater State Park offers a hiking trail, canoe/kayak launches, playgrounds, and plenty of history.

10. Sky Meadows State Park

Offering trails for horseback riding, Sky Meadows State Park is just one hour from Washington D.C. It’s a beautiful park with plenty of things to do. The park even offers access to the Appalachian Trail, along with primitive camping options.

11. Aldie Mill Historic Park

Home of a 200-year-old Grist Mill, Aldie Mill Historic Park offers plenty of beauty to enjoy. The park provides live grinding demonstrations and tours throughout the year.

12. Gilbert’s Corner Regional Park

A 155-acre park with beautiful rolling countryside, Gilbert’s Corner Regional Park is a wonderful spot for family to enjoy. It’s filled with things to do, such as interactive hiking trails and plenty of history to discover.

13. Occoquan Regional Park

A beautiful 350-acre park in Lorton, Occoquan Regional Park offers a waterfront plaza, along with rentals for kayaks and other items. You can enjoy the 5k loop for hiking and walking, along with batting cages, and so much more.

14. Blue Ridge Regional Park

A beautiful park with plenty to offer, Blue Ridge Regional Park is a great place for tent camping when it’s fully open. There are many fun things to do as a family at this park.

15. Gateway Regional Park

Found in Fairfax, the Gateway Regional Park offers a place to rest as you enjoy the Washington & Old Dominion Trail / City of Fairfax connector Trail. You can check out the maps, get out of the sun, and even fill your water bottle here. While it’s just a simple park, if your family is hiking on these trails, it’s important to stop here for a rest.

If you’re ready to get outside and enjoy plenty of fun in the sun, these Northern Virginia Parks offer plenty to do. Pack up the family and enjoy a day at the park this summer!