Picnics, just like barbecues, happen only in summer. The outdoor games, barbecues, and delicious menus make picnics one of the favorite events of families, especially when the weather is nice. If you are living in Northern Virginia and wondering what to do, why not go picnicking?
Northern Virginia is home to many wonderful towns, cities, and suburbs. From Arlington to Fairfax, the area has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll explore Northern Virginia and explain why going on a picnic in Northern Virginia is a great idea. Let’s get started!
Why go on a picnic in Northern Virginia
A picnic in Northern Virginia is a great idea for anyone looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Picnics offer a chance to get out into nature, spend quality time together with friends or family, and enjoy some delicious food. Northern Virginia is home to many beautiful parks and outdoor areas that are perfect for a picnic. Whether you are looking for a quiet lakefront spot or a more lively area with plenty of activities, you’ll find what you need in Northern Virginia.
The area is home to many state and national parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. From the George Washington National Forest to Sky Meadows State Park, there is plenty of space to spread out a blanket and enjoy the outdoors. Picnic spots in Northern Virginia also come with breathtaking views, from rolling hills to lush fields, so you can really soak in the natural beauty.
Picnics in Northern Virginia are even more fun when there is plenty of outdoor activities available. Whether it’s hiking trails, kayaking, or fishing, there are plenty of exciting activities to do that will make your picnic even more memorable. For those looking for something a bit more relaxing, there are also many scenic spots perfect for taking in the views while enjoying a delicious picnic lunch.
No matter what you’re looking for, Northern Virginia has something to offer when it comes to picnic spots. With its beautiful landscapes and ample outdoor activities, it’s the perfect place to escape for a day of fun in the sun. So pack up your basket and head out on a picnic – you won’t regret it!
Tips and tricks for planning the perfect picnic
Planning the perfect picnic in northern Virginia doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With so many great picnic spots across the area, it’s easy to find a spot that suits your needs and provides all kinds of fun activities for everyone to enjoy. Here are some tips and tricks to help make sure your picnic is one to remember:
1. Choose the Right Picnic Spot: With so many great picnic spots in northern Virginia, finding the perfect one can be tricky. Do your research to find a spot that offers plenty of space for all guests, easy access to restrooms and other amenities, and enough room for activities like games and sports.
2. Pack the Perfect Picnic Basket: Be sure to pack all the essentials for a great picnic, including napkins, cutlery, plates, cups and plenty of food. Picnics are also the perfect time to try out some new recipes.
3. Bring Some Entertainment: Picnics don’t have to be just about eating. Make sure to pack some entertainment, such as board games or outdoor sports equipment. This will help keep everyone entertained and make the picnic more memorable.
4. Have Fun: Above all else, have fun! Picnics are meant to be a time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures so you can relive your perfect picnic for years to come.
Picnics are a great way to spend time together and make memories, so take the time to plan it out perfectly and have fun! With these tips, your next picnic in northern Virginia is sure to be one to remember!
25 Perfect Picnic Spots in Northern Virginia
Now is my list of 25 picnic spots in Northern Virginia.
1. Occoquan Regional Park, Lorton
Occoquan Regional Park is a great picnic spot located in Lorton, Virginia. It’s the perfect place to have a day of relaxation and unwinding with friends or family. Visitors can bring their own food and enjoy the scenic views of Occoquan Bay while they eat. Picnickers can take advantage of the park’s walking trails, fishing spots, and other activities.
Picnickers can also explore the historical Occoquan town and its quaint shops. There are plenty of places to sit and relax, making it an ideal spot for a picnic in northern Virginia. Lorton is home to another great picnic spot: Mason Neck State Park.
Picnickers can enjoy views of the Potomac River and explore its many trails, boat ramps, and picnic spots. There are also plenty of places to fish or rent boats for a day on the water. Picnickers can also take advantage of the park’s educational programming such as bird watching and nature walks.
3. Burke Lake Park
Another great picnic spot in the northern Virginia area is Burke Lake Park. Located just minutes outside of Washington, DC, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Picnicking is one of them – and one of the best! Picnic tables are available throughout the park and grills can be found near some of them. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the trails or a pedal boat ride on Burke Lake. There is plenty of wildlife to see in the park, including fish, birds, and other small animals. Picnickers can also take advantage of the numerous playgrounds in the park for children to explore. Burke Lake Park has something for everyone, making it a great spot for a picnic. With plenty of parking and easy access to the park, it is one of the most convenient in northern Virginia.
4. Burke Lake Park Boathouse
The Burke Lake Park Boathouse is another great spot in northern Virginia for picnicking. Located along the shores of Burke Lake, this boathouse offers visitors a stunning view of the lake and plenty of green space for picnicking. Picnic tables are available as well as grills, making it perfect for barbecues or lunch outdoors. Visitors can also take advantage of the lake, with boat rentals and fishing access. The Burke Lake Park Boathouse is a great spot to enjoy some beautiful scenery while having a picnic lunch or dinner. Parking is also available for visitors, making it easy to get to this scenic spot. Picnickers will definitely love the views from this boathouse, making it one of the best picnic spots in northern Virginia.
5. Cherry Run Park
Cherry Run Park is a great picnic spot for visitors to northern Virginia. Located in the town of Herndon, this park offers plenty of green space and beautiful views of the Potomac River. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills are also available for barbecues, and visitors can take advantage of the nearby fishing access. Cherry Run Park also has a great playground for children to explore and plenty of trails for walking or biking. Picnickers will love the stunning views of the river, making it one of the most scenic spots in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely love the views and atmosphere of Cherry Run Park.
6. Cherry Hill Park
Cherry Hill Park is another great spot for a picnic in northern Virginia. Located just outside of Washington, DC, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and scenic views. Picnickers will love the numerous picnic tables throughout the park, as well as the grills available for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby fishing access and the playgrounds for children. There are also plenty of trails at Cherry Hill Park, making it a great spot for walking or biking. Picnickers will definitely love the views and atmosphere of this park, making it one of the best picnic spots in northern Virginia. Parking is available as well, making it easy to get to this scenic spot. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the views and atmosphere of this park.
7. East Falls Church
East Falls Church is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located just outside of Washington, DC, this area offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby fishing access and playgrounds for children. Picnickers will love the stunning views of the river, making it one of the most scenic spots in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the stunning views and atmosphere of East Falls Church.
8. Fort Hunt Park
Fort Hunt Park is another great picnic spot in northern Virginia. Located along the Potomac River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and beautiful views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills are also available at some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby fishing access and playgrounds for children. Picnickers will love the stunning views of the river, making it one of the most scenic spots in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Fort Hunt Park.
9. Great Falls Park
Great Falls Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located just outside of Washington, DC, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby fishing access and playgrounds for children. Picnickers will love the stunning views of the river, making it one of the most scenic spots in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Great Falls Park.
10. Gunston Hall
Gunston Hall is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located along the Potomac River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and beautiful views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby fishing access and playgrounds for children. Picnickers will love the stunning views of the river, making it one of the most scenic spots in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Gunston Hall.
11. Huntington Park
Huntington Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located just outside of Washington, DC, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby fishing access and playgrounds for children. Picnickers will love the stunning views of the river, making it one of the most scenic spots in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Huntington Park.
12. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located along the Anacostia River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and beautiful views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of the river. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.
13. King Farm Park, Northern Virginia
King Farm Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located just along the Potomac River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby fishing access and playgrounds for children. Picnickers will love the stunning views of the river, making it one of the most scenic spots in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of King Farm Park.
14. Lee District Park
Lee District Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located along the Occoquan River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and beautiful views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of the river. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Lee District Park.
15. Long Branch Nature Center
Long Branch Nature Center is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located just outside of Washington, DC, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby hiking trails and wildlife observatory, as well as the stunning views of the Potomac River. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Long Branch Nature Center.
16. Prince William Forest Park
Prince William Forest Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located just outside of Washington, DC, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby hiking trails and wildlife observatory, as well as the stunning views of the Occoquan River. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Prince William Forest Park.
17. Riverbend Park
Riverbend Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located along the Potomac River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of the river. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Riverbend Park.
18. Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located in the Potomac River, this island park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of Georgetown and the surrounding area. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Roosevelt Island.
19. Roosevelt Island Meadow
Roosevelt Island Meadow is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located just off the Potomac River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the meadow, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of Georgetown and the surrounding area. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Roosevelt Island Meadow.
20. Riverbend Park, Northern Virginia
Riverbend Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located along the Potomac River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails, fishing spots, and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of the river. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Riverbend Park.
21. The Mall, Northern Virginia
The Mall in Northern Virginia is another great spot for picnicking. Picnic tables are available throughout the mall, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby monuments and memorials, as well as stunning views of downtown Washington, DC. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this area as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of The Mall in Northern Virginia.
22. Tuckahoe Park, Northern Virginia
Tuckahoe Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located along the Rappahannock River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails, fishing spots, and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of the river. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Tuckahoe Park.
23. Turkeycock Run Regional Park, Northern Virginia
Turkeycock Run Regional Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located along the North Fork of the Shenandoah River, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails, fishing spots, and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of the river. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Turkeycock Run Regional Park.
24. Watts Branch Park, Northern Virginia
Watts Branch Park is another great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. Located along the Watts Branch stream, this park offers visitors plenty of green space and stunning views. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails, fishing spots, and playgrounds for children, as well as the stunning views of the stream. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. is available at this park as well, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of Watts Branch Park.
25. W&OD Trail, Northern Virginia
The W&OD Trail is a great spot for picnicking in northern Virginia. The trail stretches 45 miles, from Shirlington to Purcellville. Picnic tables are available throughout the trail, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Grills can also be found near some of the tables, making it ideal for barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the nearby walking trails, running spots, and biking paths, as well as the stunning views of the countryside. Picnickers will love this scenic spot in northern Virginia for a picnic. Parking is available near some parts of the trail, making it easy to access. Picnickers will definitely enjoy the beautiful views and atmosphere of W&OD Trail.
Conclusion
Picnic places in Northern Virginia offer a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, fresh air, and stunning views. Picnickers will love exploring these charming parks and trails for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Whether you are looking for a scenic spot along a river or just somewhere to relax with friends and family, there is something for everyone in northern Virginia.
FAQ’s
What is the best location for a picnic?
When trying to decide on the best location for a picnic, it is important to consider factors such as access to parking, amenities like grills and picnic tables, and scenic views. Picnic spots in northern Virginia all offer something unique, from river views to green spaces. Taking into account these variables will help you find the perfect spot for your picnic. Picnic spots in northern Virginia are a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and stunning views, all while having an amazing time with friends and family.
Where can I make a picnic in Lebanon?
If you’re looking for a great place to have a picnic in Lebanon, there are plenty of excellent options. Picnic spots in Lebanon range from beautiful parks with scenic views to riverside restaurants and terraces. Picnickers can enjoy stunning views of the mountains and valleys, green spaces, and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking trails and picnic tables. Picnic spots in Lebanon offer a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the outdoors with friends and family, all while taking in amazing views of the Mediterranean.
Can you picnic at Primrose Hill?
Yes, you can definitely picnic at Primrose Hill! Picnic spots in Primrose Hill offer stunning views of London, as well as plenty of green spaces and outdoor activities. Picnickers can enjoy the beautiful gardens, walking trails, and playgrounds for children. Picnic tables are available throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Picnicking at Primrose Hill is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views, all while having an amazing time with friends and family.
Can you picnic at Shoreline Park?
Yes, you can definitely picnic at Shoreline Park! Picnic spots in Shoreline Park offer amazing views of San Francisco Bay and plenty of green spaces to explore. Picnickers can enjoy walking trails and picnic tables throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Picnicking at Shoreline Park is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views, all while having an amazing time with friends and family.
Can you have a picnic at Holland Park?
Yes, you can definitely have a picnic at Holland Park! Picnic spots in Holland Park offer stunning views of London and plenty of green spaces to explore. Picnickers can enjoy walking trails, playgrounds for children, and picnic tables throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Picnicking at Holland Park is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views, all while having an amazing time with friends and family.
Can you have a picnic in St James Park?
Yes, you can definitely have a picnic in St James Park. Picnic spots in St James Park offer amazing views of London and plenty of green spaces to explore. Picnickers can enjoy walking trails, playgrounds for children, and picnic tables throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Picnicking in St James Park is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views, all while having an amazing time with friends and family.
Can you picnic at Kew Gardens?
Yes, you can definitely picnic at Kew Gardens! Picnic spots in Kew Gardens offer amazing views of London and plenty of green spaces to explore. Picnickers can enjoy walking trails, playgrounds for children, and picnic tables throughout the park, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Picnicking at Kew Gardens is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views, all while having an amazing time with friends and family.
Where can I have a picnic in Cornwall?
If you’re looking for a great place to have a picnic in Cornwall, there are plenty of excellent options. Picnic spots in Cornwall range from picturesque beaches and coastal landscapes to sprawling parks with stunning views of the region. Picnickers can enjoy everything from sun-kissed sandbars and seaside terraces to green spaces filled with picnic tables, making it perfect for an outdoor lunch or dinner. Picnicking in Cornwall is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking views, all while having an amazing time with friends and family.
