Alert:
Get your boating fun in before winter comes with these boating classes!
Several Fairfax County Park Authority parks offer boating opportunities. Here’s a site-by-site summary of opportunities and restrictions with links to further information.
Set Sail for Fun on Burke Lake’s Scenic Waters
This scenic lake features two launch areas to get you out on the water in no time! Electric motors are welcome (sorry, no gas engines), and fishing kayaks, rowboats and canoes are available to rent. Got your own boat? Inflatable boats with at least three air chambers are allowed, and there’s even a 24-hour, state-owned launch at the dam—perfect for early bird anglers.
Cruise the upper lake from the marina, hop aboard the tour boat for a relaxing ride, or cast a line from your fishing kayak. Pets aren’t permitted on rental or tour boats.
Paddle into Adventure at Lake Accotink!
Glide across calm waters with canoe and kayak rentals available right at the marina. Whether you're a first-timer or seasoned paddler, Lake Accotink offers a scenic escape surrounded by nature. Bring your own paddle craft and use the convenient launch ramp—or join one of our occasional kayaking classes and guided tours for a fresh perspective on the lake. (Gas motors are not permitted, so your time on the water stays peaceful and eco-friendly.)
This 18-acre lake has a marina with pedal boat rentals and a lake tour boat. There is a launch ramp for personal boats. No sailboats, paddleboards or motor-powered boats are allowed. Fishing from personal boats or rental boats is not permitted. Inflated boats with at least three separate air chambers are allowed.
Canoe, kayak and row boat rentals, subject to Potomac River conditions. No pets on boats. There’s a restricted boating area downstream from the park. Kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboard tours available. Kayak and canoe merit badge programs are available. A year-round boat ramp is available during open park hours pending weather and river conditions. This area of the river has a lot of shallow, rocky stretches. Riverbend posts important information online about boating on the Potomac River.
There are a handful of parks with small lakes. Boating is allowed, but there are no public launch ramps. Boaters have to carry their canoe or kayak to the water. No gas motors are permitted.