Nature & Parks

In Great Falls, we’re surrounded by natural beauty — the Potomac River, forests, streams, wildlife corridors, dark skies, and many parks and miles of trails to enjoy them. With a few simple actions, every resident can help protect biodiversity and preserve the semi-rural character that makes our community special.

Start Here: Three Easy Steps

Visit one local park or trail you haven’t explored yet.
Learn which Resource Protection Area (RPA) your home is closest to.
Replace one outdoor light with a dark‑sky‑friendly fixture.

Ready for More?

1. Explore Local Parks & Natural Areas

Great Falls offers a rich network of parks, historic sites, and natural spaces. Spend time outdoors and get to know the landscapes that define our community.

Each park offers unique trails, wildlife viewing, and opportunities to learn about local ecology and history.

2. Support Resource Protection Areas & Wildlife Corridors

Resource Protection Areas (RPAs)

RPAs help protect sensitive stream valleys and water quality. Review county maps and resources to see which RPA you live near and learn how to care for these areas responsibly.

Wildlife Corridors

Great Falls is part of a larger network of forested and meadow corridors used by deer, foxes, birds, and pollinators. Observe wildlife movement around your home and consider ways to keep these pathways connected.

3. Protect Trees & Conserve Land

Tree Preservation

Healthy trees support wildlife, reduce erosion, and maintain the rural character of Great Falls. Learn about proper tree care and consider consulting a certified arborist for guidance.

Land Conservation

If you own larger acreage, consider a land conservation easement to protect natural areas and open space for future generations.

4. Support Local Wildlife

Great Falls is home to a wide range of animals — birds, insects, amphibians, and mammals.

Riverbend Park offers frequent programs and camps for kids and adults to learn more about local animals.

Learn more about ways to support wildlife at home on our Eco-Friendly Landscaping resource page and Amy’s Environmental Almanac.

If You Find Injured Wildlife

If you see an animal in need of help, it’s best not to intervene, as your efforts may be detrimental to the wildlife. Instead, contact the Police Department’s non-emergency number at 703-691-2131 and describe the animal and exact location.

5. Enjoy the Night Sky

Turner Farm Park is designated as an Urban Night Sky Place. The relative low light pollution near the observatory makes it the darkest observable site within 30 miles of Washington, D.C.

Visit the Turner Farm Observatory for viewing nights, astronomy classes and events.
Reduce light pollution at home by switching to dark‑sky‑friendly outdoor lighting. Review the county’s lighting ordinance for details and explore DarkSky International’s database of approved fixtures. Possible outdoor lighting violations can be reported to the Department of Code Compliance through the PLUS portal.

These small changes help protect nocturnal wildlife and preserve starry skies.

6. Explore Great Falls on Foot

The Great Falls Trailblazers maintain a detailed map of local trails, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and natural areas.

Discover new walking routes
Connect with nature close to home
Support community efforts to maintain the trail network

7. Help Remove Invasive Plants

Invasive plants have spread across parks, stream valleys, and roadsides, threatening native species.

Learn how to identify common invasives
Remove them from your own property
Join a community invasive‑removal workday, announced in the monthly GFCA membership newsletter

These volunteer efforts make a visible difference in restoring local ecosystems.

8. Stay Connected

The GFCA Environment & Parks Committee shares updates on local conservation efforts, volunteer opportunities, and environmental programs. Email environment@gfca.org to get involved.

Additional Resources:

Great Falls Citizens Association
PO Box 27 • Great Falls, VA • 22066