Reservoir Park — Attraction in Brambleton

A beautiful park. Unfortunately, the experience is ruined by the odd and restrictive pavilion policy.

Unlike every other park I have visited throughout the country and world, these pavilions are closed to all visitors at all times. The pavilions, including two right at the parking lot entrance, have signs at all times saying the pavilion is closed for a private event, even if there is no scheduled event. You may not sit at the pavilion unless you have spent $386 to book the pavilion. The bookings are “all day bookings,” which bars regular visitors from using the pavilions. A lady on a maintenance vehicle drives from one pavilion to another enforcing this bizarre rule and kicking people out of the pavilions, ensuring that they stay empty.

I completely understand that parks allow people to reserve pavilions for parties, but usually reservations are for a few hours when an event is actually happening. The fact that Resevoir Park’s pavilion reservations are “all day” reservations seems only to make the maximum profit and keep non payers away. Without providing additional picnic tables, this is unacceptable. This is simply not in the spirit of how a park should operate.

I’m curious about how this park is funded. Did we pay taxes to improve this park only to be denied access to the amenities? That doesn’t seem right to me.

I hope that Reservoir Parks can review their Pavilion policy to reflect those of nation wide...

I rented a two-person kayak at NOVA Parks Reservoir for $23 (plus tax) with my 5-year-old. Unfortunately, just minutes after launching, thunder began and it started raining heavily. We returned to the dock within 10 minutes of our scheduled 1-hour rental, hoping for either a refund or a voucher for a future visit.

Initially, the staff on-site refused both, which felt frustrating and unfair — especially since the weather clearly made it unsafe to continue. I later received a call from the park manager, who explained that they use a lightning detection system to determine when to shut down operations and offer refunds. According to their policy, they only issue refunds if that system triggers — not simply for thunder, rain, or lightning observed nearby.

While I appreciate the safety system they have in place and the manager’s time in explaining it, I still disagree with the lack of flexibility. In cases like ours — cut short by heavy downpours almost immediately — it seems reasonable to offer at least a voucher as a goodwill gesture. To his credit, the manager did offer a pass for a future kayak rental, which I appreciate.

I’m leaving this updated review to reflect the follow-up and added context. That said, I’d still encourage visitors to be aware that if weather cuts your trip short but doesn’t trigger their detection system, you may be...

Today marked the official opening of Reservoir Park in Brambleton, and as a local resident, I’m grateful to have a place like this nearby. While the park offers familiar features like walking trails and picnic areas, it stands out for its breathtaking scenery, especially now as the trees begin to show their fall colors.

What makes this park truly unique, however, is its focus on education and sustainability. There are numerous signs throughout the park that explain the importance of Beaverdam Reservoir as a vital water source for the community. Additionally, live demonstrations showcase how the park manages rainwater, with the pavilion and welcome center roofs designed to channel water into a natural filtration area, which then flows safely into the reservoir. Kids will also enjoy the interactive water pump on the pier, and there’s a boat rental and ramp for those looking to explore the water.

We’re fortunate to have this wonderful space so close to home, and we look forward to enjoying everything it...