Burke Lake group camping area A

Burke Lake Group Camping Area A serves as a dedicated retreat for larger gatherings, located within the expansive and highly-regarded Burke Lake Park in Fairfax Station, Virginia. Managed by the Fairfax County Park Authority, this specific camping zone is designed to accommodate the needs of organized groups, from scout troops and school clubs to multi-family reunions. As a premier destination in the Northern Virginia region, it offers a harmonious blend of primitive, wooded serenity and modern recreational facilities, making it a standout choice for those looking to experience the great outdoors without traveling far from the conveniences of the D.C. metropolitan area.

The "Area A" designation refers to the flexible group sites within the park's campground, which are specifically zoned to allow for larger occupancy than standard family sites. This area is characterized by a lush canopy of mature trees, providing ample shade and a sense of seclusion even during the peak summer months. Whether your group is interested in a weekend of team-building exercises or simply wants a quiet place to sit around a campfire and roast marshmallows, this campground provides the space and infrastructure necessary for a successful group excursion in a safe, professionally managed environment.

Located at 7315 Ox Road in Fairfax Station, VA, Burke Lake Group Camping Area A is exceptionally accessible for local Virginia residents and those traveling from neighboring states. Situated just off the Fairfax County Parkway and Ox Road (Route 123), the park is easy to reach by car or van, which is essential for groups hauling camping gear, coolers, and outdoor equipment. The park’s proximity to major suburban hubs means that essential supplies, groceries, and medical services are only a short drive away, providing peace of mind for group leaders and parents alike.

Accessibility within the park is a priority, with on-site parking conveniently located near the camping zones to facilitate easy loading and unloading of supplies. For groups with members who have mobility considerations, the park features several ADA-compliant facilities, including accessible fishing piers and paved or well-maintained gravel trails. The campground is also situated near the park's main attractions, such as the marina and the ice cream parlor, which are connected by a network of accessible pathways, ensuring that everyone in the group can participate in the day's activities.

The services offered at Burke Lake Group Camping Area A are tailored to make group camping as seamless and enjoyable as possible. The park authority provides a structured reservation system and professional on-site staff to assist with check-ins and general inquiries. While the sites are non-electric and provide a "primitive" experience, the surrounding amenities offer significant comfort. Key services include:

• Flexible group site reservations that can accommodate up to 18 people per site, with the ability to combine sites for even larger groups.
• Access to clean, modernized bathhouses featuring flushing toilets, sinks, and hot/cold showers located within walking distance of the sites.
• On-site camp store providing essential supplies such as ice, charcoal, and fire-starter kits (seasonal hours apply).
• A dedicated firewood program where campers can purchase reasonably priced wood, as outside firewood is prohibited to protect the local ecosystem from invasive species.
• Professional maintenance and waste management services, including on-site trash and recycling dumpsters and a dump station for small RVs.
• Discounted "Camp and Play" bundles exclusively for registered campers, offering reduced rates on boat rentals, mini-golf, and carousel rides.

The features and highlights of Burke Lake Park are what truly elevate the camping experience in Area A. Beyond the campsite itself, the park functions as a 650-acre playground with activities that cater to every interest and age group. The 218-acre lake is the centerpiece, but the surrounding forest is filled with gems that keep groups entertained throughout their stay. Notable highlights include:

• The 4.7-mile Burke Lake Trail, a scenic gravel loop around the water that is perfect for group hikes, morning runs, or mountain biking.
• A fully operational marina offering rowboat and electric motorboat rentals, as well as bait and tackle sales for world-class largemouth bass fishing.
• Child-friendly attractions including a 1/3-scale miniature train that winds through the woods and a vintage-style carousel.
• Extensive recreational facilities such as an 18-hole par-3 golf course, a disc golf course, and multiple playgrounds.
• The Burke Lake Ice Cream Parlor, a local favorite for cooling off with a sweet treat after a day of outdoor exploration.
• A "Leave No Trace" wilderness camping option for groups seeking an even more rugged, back-to-basics experience.

For group leaders and organizers interested in booking Area A or obtaining specific information regarding group rates and availability, the Burke Lake Park Information Center is the primary point of contact. It is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially for weekends during the spring and fall seasons. You can reach the park staff through the following channels:

• Address: 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, USA
• Information Center Phone: (703) 323-6600
• Campground Store Phone: (703) 323-1641
• TTY: 711 (for hearing impaired)

What is worth choosing about Burke Lake Group Camping Area A is its unique ability to provide a "wilderness light" experience that is both safe and engaging for diverse groups. For many organizations in Virginia, finding a location that can host 20 to 100 people while still providing individual fire rings and picnic tables is a challenge. Burke Lake solves this by offering a high level of infrastructure within a beautiful natural setting. It is the ideal choice for those who want the traditional campfire experience without sacrificing access to clean restrooms and engaging daytime activities.

Furthermore, the park’s commitment to being "Good for Kids" makes it an unbeatable choice for youth organizations. The combination of the miniature train, carousel, and playgrounds ensures that younger campers stay occupied and excited about the trip. For the adults, the peace of mind that comes from staying in a well-patrolled, regulated park allows for a more relaxed leadership experience. When you choose Burke Lake Area A, you are choosing a venue that understands the complexities of group dynamics and provides a versatile environment where every member of your group can find something to love about the great outdoors.

Finally, the value offered through the "Camp and Play" bundles and the free admission for Fairfax County residents makes this an economically sensible choice for community groups. It provides a high-quality recreational experience that remains accessible to all. Whether your goal is to teach outdoor skills, celebrate a milestone, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the lake, Burke Lake Group Camping Area A provides the perfect stage for your group's next big adventure.