Here are 25 perfect picnic spots near our VA Northern rentals in the special occasion areas. The list includes everything from romantic and fun outings to free family picnics and large group gatherings in the DC Washington vicinity.
Whatever your goal may be, you will find a diverse selection of picnic spots below. Take a short hike to a romantic and cozy picnic spot that you love. Celebrate a birthday or Father’s Day, Mother’s Day at a rented pavilion. Gather with family and friends at one of the most popular free parks in the region.
Rental facilities and regulations that are commonly shared among the majority of the parks on our list can be found at county and regional parks. By clicking on the provided links, you will also discover specific information about parks and destinations. The following Northern Virginia picnic areas are listed below in no specific arrangement.
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Jones Point Park, Alexandria
In close proximity to the historical lighthouse, take some time to unwind on the grassy area. With the presence of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and the river, you will be treated to remarkable vistas of the Potomac nearby; you can select a location to enjoy the scenery. Located just south of Old Town’s Waterfront Park, Jones Point Park offers a plethora of enjoyable activities, and one of them includes picnicking, making it an ideal spot for leisurely meals, which is only a mile away.
The area of Park Point Jones has a fascinating history explained via interpretive displays and signs on an interpretive trail. The area also has a large paved area where young kids can practice their biking skills, as well as two nice playgrounds.
Algonkian Regional Park, Sterling
Sterling offers a variety of excellent picnic areas in Park Regional Algonkian. You will have a nice spot to play and hike, as most of the picnic tables are located near the Potomac River.
If a gathering is utilizing the expansive pavilion, the vicinity might become congested and these tables are not in proximity to the river. Nevertheless, it is adjacent to a spacious playground and there are washroom amenities nearby, rendering it an ideal picnic spot for families. Additionally, there are a handful of picnic tables situated near the Volcano Island Waterpark.
Algonkian Park, in addition to having available tables, provides a variety of rental pavilions for small gatherings as well as a spacious pavilion that can accommodate up to 200 individuals. Furthermore, within the waterpark area, there are additional rental shelters. Algonkian does not impose an entrance fee and parking is complimentary.
Lake Accotink Park, Springfield
Accotink Lake is a popular destination for cyclists, individuals walking their dogs, and hikers. This easy 3-mile trail attracts a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to its scenic beauty, Accotink Lake offers various amenities, including a family-friendly marina. This lakefront park in Fairfax County is truly a picturesque spot.
There is a large picnic area served on a first come first served basis. Accotink Lake has 4 picnic areas and 3 covered shelters available for rent. The two shelters are located on top of a pretty hill with scenic views of the lake, further away from the lakefront is the spacious McLaren Shelter.
Lake Fairfax Park, Reston
Lake Fairfax Park is renowned for its expansive, shaded picnic zone adorned with numerous tables scattered amidst the foliage. It is considered one of the top picnic destinations in Northern Virginia, particularly for sizable gatherings. Admission to the park is free of charge, and the primary picnic section at Lake Fairfax does not incur any fees.
Adjacent parking is complimentary and the recreational space is in proximity to a play area and a small creek. A cluster of tables is reserved and adorned in advance by Scouts. Assorted clusters of families, friends, and acquaintances occupy the costless picnic area on weekends.
In addition to the free picnic area, Fairfax Lake offers a vast selection of picnic areas and pavilions for large, medium, and small groups. Some of the best pavilions, which overlook the lake, are located near the entrance of the park and close to the Watermine waterpark and the marina. There are also additional pavilions near the waterpark and marina, making it convenient for groups from the nearby area to have a picnic.
Looking to plan a weekend adventure? Lake Fairfax also offers one of the finest campgrounds in Northern Virginia.
Meadowlark Botanical Garden, Vienna
Please note that picnicking is not allowed inside the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, but it is definitely a beautiful spot for a picnic near Washington, DC. So, if you plan to eat before or after entering the garden, please keep in mind that picnicking is not permitted inside the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens.
Visitors are provided with a designated area to dine near the Meadowlark parking lot, consisting of a small number of picnic tables and a grassy space, outside of the garden grounds. Adjacent to this, along the path adorned with fruit trees, there are additionally numerous seats. Prior to accessing the gardens, these seats serve as a pleasant location to unwind.
Do you want to combine a bike ride with a picnic? The Meadowlark parking lot directly leads to a pretty trail connector that also happens to be a late-see cherry blossoms in April. The Meadowlark Trail Connector is a 1.25-mile paved path that sometimes has steep sections. Does the Trail Connector connect Dominion and Washington bike trails to the botanical garden?
Great Falls Park, Great Falls
Nearby, there are toilet facilities and trees that provide shade. In close proximity to the Visitor Center, visitors to the park can reserve a picnic table with a grill at Great Falls Park, which is among the top picnic destinations in Northern Virginia.
The tables are scattered throughout the meadow close to Overlook 3, except for the barbecue. To get closer to this meadow, park at the lower parking lot (take a right immediately after entering). If you have a cooler to transport and do not require a barbecue, this is a viable choice since the parking is not a long distance from the tables.
In order to access these picnic areas within the park limits, you must either make a payment for the admission fee or present your National Park Pass. It is important to note that there are no sheltered pavilions available, and the picnic tables at Great Falls Park operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bonus: Sugarloaf Mountain, Maryland
The summit of Rocky Mountain is a favorite picnic spot at Sugarloaf in Maryland, and the picnic areas at Sugarloaf are accessible by car, about 2/3 of the way up the mountain. We want to give a shoutout to the picnic areas at Mountain Sugarloaf in Maryland, even though it is not located in Northern Virginia.
The scenery is breathtaking and parking is conveniently nearby, making this an excellent picnic spot for individuals with restricted mobility. Picnic benches are only a short distance away and park in the parking lot at East View.
Occoquan Regional Park, Lorton
Enjoy a fascinating history and various recreational activities such as picnicking, fishing, boating, and hiking at Regional Occoquan Park, which is located along the southern edge of Fairfax County and stretches along the banks of the Occoquan River.
At Occoquan Park, there are additionally 3 picnic pavilions and a bigger enclosed structure accessible for lease. Lay out a blanket in one of the spacious meadows where children will have ample space to frolic or arrange your picnic by the extensive pier with waterfront benches (adjacent to the boat launch).
If you want to learn about the long struggle for women’s rights and have time to visit the Memorial Suffragist Women’s, you can vote and eat wherever you like. Of course, you could also enjoy your meal on the pretty patio overlooking the river at the café. If you don’t want to pack your own food, you can pick up a takeout meal from the Brickmaker’s café.
Wolf Trap National Park, Vienna
Up until two hours prior to the start of the show, members of the public can freely utilize these picnic tables, which come with convenient nearby parking. Wolf Trap National Park undeniably offers an abundance of picnic areas to select from, boasting over 150 picnic tables that are scattered across the park.
Lately, I hadn’t taken into account Wolf Trap until after searching for picnic spots in Northern Virginia near me for 25 years. Interestingly, this park is frequently disregarded as an option, except during concert events, despite the abundance of picnic tables.
Close to forest pathways lie several picnic tables that are clustered near the perimeter of parking areas. If you favor blankets instead of tables, a delightful alternative would be a gently sloping meadow where the most extensive collection of picnic tables can be found at Wolf Trap.
Enhance your picnic experience by including a hike: Explore 2 picturesque Wolf Trap Trail hikes in Vienna, Virginia.
If the Ovations area is closed due to an upcoming show, you’ll need to walk up the hill and down to the bottom of the park. This will put you close to nearby restrooms and tables. To reach the hilltop tables, head towards the parking area near the Ovations restaurant.
More than 25 groups are asked to contact the park for additional information. Please note that there are no fires or grills allowed.
Chapman de Mary Trail, Purcellville
Are you searching for additional enjoyable locations in Loudoun County to have a picnic with children? In Purcellville, one of the enjoyable destinations to explore is the beginning of the Chapman de Mary Trail, where a group of circular picnic tables can be found.
Discover a picturesque butterfly garden with informative signs specifically designed for young nature enthusiasts. Within the park, children can gain knowledge about the natural surroundings while enjoying a delightful picnic and a leisurely stroll along the trail.
Nestled beneath mature White Oaks, picnic tables can be found behind Fireman’s Field in downtown Purcellville. In close proximity to a quaint pond, Franklin Park, situated across town, boasts numerous delightful picnic tables.
Riverbend Park, Great Falls
There are limited picnic areas available at Riverbend Park, yet they are situated in a pleasant vicinity near the Potomac River and the Visitor Center. When it comes to enjoying a picnic at Riverbend, you have several options to choose from.
Riverbend Park is home to one of the prettiest trails in Northern Virginia, especially when spring wildflowers like bluebells are blooming in late March and early April.
Turner Pond at Sky Meadows, Delaplane
The Rolling Meadow Path and the historical region feature picnic spots in close proximity. Following a hike or a bit of fishing, several picnic benches adjacent to Jordan Pond provide a serene location to dine. Sky Meadows State Park boasts a charming picnic spot, captivating historical significance, and superb hiking opportunities.
River Mill Park and Public Dock, Occoquan
You can happily create a delightful picnic with takeout from one of the shops and restaurants in the beautiful town of Occoquan Historic, which is one of the loveliest small towns in Northern Virginia.
Occoquan has two beautiful picnic areas.
Theodore Roosevelt Island, Arlington
There are no open fields on the island, so blankets are not necessary for a good spot. On the boardwalk trail and the swamp, you can stop for a snack, and there are several benches at the plaza. The top of the island is a pretty picnic spot on a warm day, but there are no picnic tables on Theodore Roosevelt Island.
Lake Thoreau, Reston
Nestled amidst the South Lakes Shopping Center, between Cafesano and Red’s Table, you’ll find cozy chairs and a handful of tables, discreetly situated at the periphery of Lake Thoreau in Reston. It’s an unexpectedly charming spot to enjoy a picnic.
The chairs on the higher levels are also extremely cozy, but the most preferred location is a table with suspended chairs at the lakeside. Select your desired area on any of the three seating levels near the lake, and subsequently collect takeaway from any of the dining establishments located in South Lakes.
Find more great Urban Plazas and Green Spaces in Northern Virginia.
Burke Lake Park, Fairfax Station
Lake Burke is another one of the best parks in Northern VA for picnics. The park is a favorite destination for boating, fishing, biking, and hiking. There are plenty of fun things for kids to do at Lake Burke, such as mini-golf and riding a miniature train on a carousel.
There are three picnic areas at Burke Lake, where most of the tables are conveniently located under the trees, providing a pleasant shady spot. Each of these areas is equipped with picnic tables, grills, and nearby parking.
Picnic area 2 can accommodate a maximum of 100 individuals, and there are multiple pavilions for rent. Area 1 is situated a bit farther away, whereas Burke Lake Picnic Areas 2 and 3 are in close proximity to the marina and the lake.
During weekends, individuals who do not reside in the area are required to pay a fee of $10 for each car that enters (there is no fee on weekdays). Fairfax County residents are granted free access to Burke Lake Park. To find the picnic areas at Burke Lake Park, take a right turn towards the marina when heading towards the sand volleyball courts.
Prince William Forest Park, Triangle
If you possess a National Park Pass, particularly if you reside near Route 95, Prince William Forest presents a splendid opportunity for a leisurely outing. Undoubtedly, it serves as an exceptional location for hiking, cycling, and enjoying a picnic, rendering it one of the lesser-known treasures in Northern Virginia.
There is a small group picnic area without tables next to the grills on lot E parking of the Scenic Drive. This area also puts you close to a playground and restrooms. The Pine Grove is a large picnic area with grills and tables, served on a first-come, first-served basis, and it is close to the visitor center park.
The Pavilion Picnic at Telegraph has 12 tables, including 6 that are wheelchair accessible. It is also conveniently located a short drive away from the Visitor Center, and the restroom facilities will be closing. Large groups can rent the Pavilion.
Gravelly Point, Arlington
This area picnic is quite dramatic, not quiet. Picnickers at Point Gravelly can experience the roar of planes as they land and take off overhead, right at the airport. One of the most unique picnic spots in Northern Virginia, it is located just north of the Potomac River, next to Reagan International Airport.
Point Gravelly, located above the Northbound airport driving along Parkway Memorial, offers ample space on the lawn for kids to run around and spread out their blankets. Additionally, there are a few picnic tables available at Point Gravelly.
In solitude, one can discover a charming location for a picnic with a brief trek and a touch of exertion. Locating idyllic picnic spots in expansive and renowned parks and recreational areas can be challenging.
Explore our guide to Romantic Locations in Northern Virginia to discover these DC area picnic areas for couples.
If possible, consider visiting during a weekday, as the presence of warm weather on weekends tends to attract large crowds. Although these locations are typically less crowded compared to the expansive picnic areas in the park, we cannot assure that you will have the entire space to yourself.
Conway Robinson State Forest, Gainesville
The Forest Robinson Conway is a pleasant spot to enjoy a pretty woodland. This is a good spot for mountain biking as all the trails in the park are open. There are several picnic tables near the entrance parking lot, and there are also grills available.
Note that there are no restrooms and no trash facilities at Conway Robinson. Be prepared to pack out all of your trash.
Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon
Frying Pan Park boasts several pleasant picnic areas. It’s an excellent spot for enjoying a meal outdoors with children, making it one of the most welcoming parks for families in Northern Virginia.
Many volunteers help take care of the animals on the farm with the assistance of donations. While considering putting some money in one of the donation boxes, it’s worth noting that all spots at the Pan Frying Farm are free for picnics.
Find more family-friendly Things to do in Herdon VA.
Waterfront Parks, Old Town Alexandria
There are a few spots set up here in the parks, where you can grab a bench or spread a blanket if you want to, but there are also a few picnic tables in Waterfront Park. Alexandria Town offers several great picnic spots in Old Town, along the waterfront.
It is better to pick up a takeout meal from one of the many restaurants in the town and travel lightly. However, parking in Old Town can be tricky, so be prepared to carry your picnic wherever you park.
Tips and Resources for Northern Virginia Picnic Spots
Regulations and guidelines differ depending on the park, but these regulations typically apply:
When you visit the website of Fairfax County Park Authority, you will find information about the availability, rules, amenities, and capacity of other sites in the county such as Riverbend, Accotink, Lake Fairfax, and Lake Burke. You can also reserve picnic pavilions and shelters by searching on the website. For more information, please visit the website of Fairfax County Park Authority.