Summer is still in full swing for several more weeks. And for folks in Northern Virginia, this may be the perfect time to head to one of many convenient NOVA Parks locations. Some even feature residential waterparks on their premises, perfect for keeping cool in the hot August sun. Others boast standout golf courses, stellar campgrounds and other accommodations, and myriad hosting facilities that can be rented out for special events. All provide pleasing playground areas for children of all ages, along with a wealth of historic highlights for history buffs to take note of.
In short, NOVA Parks are renowned for many novel niceties that other regional parks can’t compete with. This is especially true given Virginia’s longstanding history as both one of the original colonies and a region laden with lush, dense land that was once inhabited by now-extinct prehistoric creatures and later precolonial indigenous people.
While the lay of the land and its history date back much further, the first NOVA Parks weren’t formally established until 1959. It all came about with the formation of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) under the Virginia Park Authorities Act and a founding mission to conserve existing land and resources, such as local natural drinking water sources, in a unique, exciting, dynamic new way. At the helm was the Northern Virginia Planning District Commission and a group of can-do, spirited citizens looking to make a positive change. Their enduring goal to preserve and provide access to the region’s woods, meadows, and waterways for public enjoyment remains intact.
“Conservation and entrepreneurship are two of the defining and unique characteristics that make NOVA Parks different,” the folks at NOVA Parks confirm. By following a self-funding model, they independently generate 88% of their entire operating revenues directly.
The current lineup of NOVA Parks stands at 34 distinct areas within various jurisdictions throughout the northern portion of the state. These include notable regional and significant sites in Alexandria, Arlington, Falls Church, Fairfax, and Loudoun. In addition to serving the recreational interests of residents and visitors to these locations, more than 12,000 acres have been successfully preserved, a mutual win across the board and on every level.
While all NOVA Parks locations share the same goals and mission, put forth by communities comprised of caring and committed individuals, each diverse location has something truly unique to offer, distinguishing it as its own entity. One such example can be found when enjoying the highlights at Algonkian Regional Park.
Located in scenic Sterling, Virginia, Algonkian Regional Park boasts a bounty of 838 acres, great for outdoor recreation of many different kinds. For golf enthusiasts, there’s an optimal 18-hole course along the Potomac River eagerly calling to you. Measuring an impressive near 7,000 yards, you won’t be able to resist!
Other endeavors to delight in include hiking by way of many diverse trail options, picnicking at one of the surrounding pavilions, and countless other quests. But the Park’s most popular pursuit for many is undoubtedly its on-site resident waterpark.
Volcano Island Waterpark is a Sterling, Virginia favorite during the summer months, with countless residents and visitors alike flocking here every season. Following an obvious tropical island theme, as evidenced by the name, the swim-time highlights featured at this fanciful setup include both a 230-foot open water slide as well as a 170-foot enclosed tunnel slide, a large main pool offering splashing and swimming spaces for all ages, a special tree stump slide, and so much more.
At the center of all the action is a versatile Volcano Island play feature consisting of fountains, squirters, and various other platforms. It is located in the shallow section and can be utilized by young and old alike. Then there is the stellar splash pad, paired perfectly with water cannons, showers, sprinklers, buckets, and more.
Hungry? A stop at the Paradise Café right on the property has you covered with all your favorites and then some. Click here to view the menu.
Volcano Island Waterpark at Algonkian Regional Park is just one of several sensational site features making up the medley of amazing NOVA Parks recreations. Learn more about all that Algonkian Regional Park has to offer on the website. You can find out more about NOVA Parks at www.novaparks.com.