On both Veterans' Day and Memorial Day, veterans, active duty military personnel and their families receive complimentary admission at the Park Authority's nine Rec Centers and lake front parks. Families may participate as well in drop-in fitness classes, use of pools and spas, fitness rooms, gyms, racquetball courts, boat rides, mini golf, carousels, camping and train rides.  Facilities vary by park location.

Free camping at Burke Lake Park is also offered throughout Veterans Day weekend.

It’s the Park Authority’s way of saying “thank you” for service to our country. Please bring your military identification to enjoy this complimentary Rec Center and lake front park access and/or camping.

This special outreach program is made possible through generous contributions to the Fairfax County Park Foundation from individual donors and organizations.

The Honoring America’s Veterans program is also supported by donations to the Park Foundation that honor the life of Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith. This civilian employee of the Army at the time of his death was attending a meeting at the Pentagon when American Airlines Flight 77 struck. This program is an extension of his legacy which included the Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith Memorial Field at Grist Mill Park.