FREDERICKSBURG, Va. â Starting Memorial Day weekend, visitors heading to the Rappahannock River will notice something familiar at two popular parks: entrance and parking fees are back for the summer season.
At Old Mill Park in Fredericksburg, fees will be collected Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., now through Labor Day. Non-residentsâthose who live outside the City of Fredericksburg and Stafford Countyâwill pay $15 per car or $5 per walk-in visitor aged 12 and up. City and county residents can enter for free with valid ID. The park remains open daily but closes from dusk to dawn.
Just across the river, Historic Port of Falmouth Park, also known as Falmouth Beach, continues its $25 parking fee for non-residents. Stafford County began collecting this fee in 2022 to cut down on crowding and parking headaches, and to make the area safer for visitors. Only credit cards are accepted, and cash is not allowed. Drivers must show a valid ID (license, military ID, or vehicle registration) with a Stafford or Fredericksburg ZIP code to park for free.
âThis park is in a flood zone and was never meant to be a high-capacity destination venue,â said the Chairman of the Stafford Board of Supervisors. âWhile this was a difficult decision, we think charging for parking will cut down on some of the crowding… making it a safer experience for everyone.â
Designated parking is available at the parkâs main lot, the gravel lot at Route 17 and U.S. Route 1, and the Grizzle Center on Butler Road.
As warm weather brings more people to the river, officials are urging visitors to stay safe while tubing, kayaking, or fishing. That means wearing life jackets, checking river conditions, and always going with a buddy. Both parks see increased activity in summer, and river safety is a shared responsibility.
For more information, visit Old Mill Parkâs Entrance Fee FAQ.
Recent Stories
Drivers near Round Elementary School will need to adjust their routes this summer.
A spirited discussion emerged at the June 5 Manassas City School Board work session as board members debated whether the district should allow teachers to assign zeroes to students who fail to turn in assignments.
Senator Mark Warner visited the City of Manassas on Thursday, June 12, 2025, where he joined Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger, Vice Mayor Mark Wolfe, and City Council Members Ashley Hutson and Ralph Smith for a tour of RapidFlight, the city’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturer.
From a large protest stretching from Fredericksburg to Manassas, to Trumpâs vow to bring back historic Army base names, to a cheery duck race in Occoquan â hereâs a roundup of whatâs happening around our neighborhoods this Monday, June 16.
Go Ape, Americaâs leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
âGo Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,â says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. âNow, weâre redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.â
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., youâre invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind â90s classics like âHey Jealousy,â âFound Out About You,â and âFollow You Down.â Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
