Scott's Run Nature Preserve Visitors Reminded Of Rules

MCLEAN, VA — With more people getting out to enjoy parks in the spring and summer, the Fairfax County Park Authority is reminding visitors to help protect Scott's Run Nature Preserve.

Scott's Run Nature Preserve, located off two entrances from Georgetown Pike in McLean, is one of a few nature preserves in the Fairfax County Park Authority's system and is home to rare plant species.

As a nature preserve and a park along the Potomac River, it has some rules for visitors. More specifically, visitors should stay on the trails, avoid swimming, park in designated areas and leave alcohol at home.

In the past, the nature preserve has been a spot for partying, especially around the waterfall area. After receiving multiple calls one day in June 2019, Fairfax County Police charged six people with drunk in public and cited nine for swimming in a posted no-swim area. One was cited for having an open alcohol container.

The park authority plans to have security on site in 2021 to enforce the alcohol ban and promote safety for visitors.

Due to dangerous currents, submerged rocks and concerning water quality, swimming, wading and boating are not permitted at Scott's Run Nature Preserve. The park authority says the conditions in this area of the Potomac River can pull a person underwater and keep them under. Anyone who enters the Scotts Run stream or the Potomac River is subject to fine, arrest or removal from the park, according to the park authority website.

Visitors are also asked to stay in the designated parking areas. Parking is limited to 50 cars and is not permitted in adjacent neighborhoods or along the roadway leading to the park.

For more information, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/scotts-run.