Newington Forest, VA

County: Fairfax

History

Newington Forest, Virginia

Newington Forest is a community located in Fairfax County, Virginia, United States. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Doeg and Piscataway tribes, who used the land for hunting and farming. European settlement began in the 17th century with English colonists establishing plantations in the region.

The land that would become Newington Forest was once part of a land grant given to Richard Fitzhugh by King Charles II in 1687. The land changed hands several times over the next few centuries as it was divided among various landowners. It was primarily used for agriculture and timber production throughout this period.

In the mid-20th century, the area experienced significant growth and development due to suburban expansion in Northern Virginia. In the 1960s, developer Bernard Francis became interested in the land, purchasing the property with the goal of creating a residential community.

Development of Newington Forest began in the early 1970s when the land was subdivided into residential lots. The community was designed as a planned development, with an emphasis on preserving the natural environment and creating a sense of community. The construction of homes began in 1971, and the neighborhood continued to grow over the next decade.

Newington Forest offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The community also features several amenities, such as parks, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a community swimming pool.

Over the years, Newington Forest has become a desirable place to live, known for its quiet suburban atmosphere and proximity to nearby amenities. The community is located near major transportation routes, including Interstate 95 and the Fairfax County Parkway, making it easily accessible to the rest of Northern Virginia and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Today, Newington Forest continues to thrive as a residential community. The homeowners' association and active community organizations play a vital role in maintaining the neighborhood's quality of life and promoting community engagement. The area retains its natural beauty, with wooded areas and green spaces still a prominent feature of the landscape.

The history of Newington Forest reflects the broader development and growth of Fairfax County and Northern Virginia as a whole. It showcases the transition from rural farmland to a vibrant suburban community, offering residents a mix of modern amenities and a connection to the region's rich history.

Attractions

Burke Lake Park

Burke Lake Park

A large park offering activities such as hiking, fishing, picnicking, golfing, and boating.

George Washington's Mount Vernon

The historic plantation and home of George Washington, the first president of the United States.

Fort Belvoir

A military installation with historic sites and museums, including the National Museum of the United States Army.

Pohick Bay Regional Park

A park with nature trails, a marina, and camping facilities, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Pirate's Cove Waterpark

A family-friendly water park with slides, pools, and splash zones.

Washington Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park

A trail for walking, running, and biking, providing a scenic route through northern Virginia.

Occoquan Regional Park

A riverside park with picnic areas, trails, and boat rentals, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the Potomac River.

Gunston Hall

The historic plantation home of George Mason, a prominent figure in U.S. history and a delegate to the Constitutional Convention.

Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area

A natural area with trails and a dog park, perfect for outdoor leisure and exercise.

Workhouse Arts Center

A vibrant arts center with galleries, studios, theaters, and events showcasing various art forms.

Climate

Newington Forest, located in Fairfax County, Virginia, experiences a humid subtropical climate. The area has four distinct seasons – spring, summer, fall, and winter – with each season bringing its own weather patterns and temperatures.

In the summer (June to August), Newington Forest experiences hot and humid weather conditions. Average high temperatures range from the upper 80s°F (around 31-32°C) to the mid-90s°F (around 35-36°C), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures above 100°F (38°C). Humidity levels can be quite high, making the weather feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during this season, often occurring in the afternoons or evenings.

Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and less humidity. Average high temperatures in September start in the mid-80s°F (around 29°C) and gradually drop to the mid-60s°F (around 18-19°C) by November. Nights become cooler, and it's common for the area to experience occasional frost by late autumn. Fall foliage is quite beautiful in Newington Forest, with vibrant colors appearing in October.

Winters (December to February) in Newington Forest are relatively mild. Average high temperatures range from the upper 40s°F (around 8-9°C) to the mid-50s°F (around 12°C). However, it's not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing, and occasional snowfall occurs, usually averaging 10-20 inches (25-50 cm) per year. Winter storms can bring significant snow accumulation and occasionally disrupt daily activities.

Spring (March to May) is a transition period in Newington Forest, with temperatures steadily rising and nature coming back to life. Average high temperatures start in the mid-50s°F (around 12°C) in March and reach the upper 70s°F (around 25°C) by May. Spring showers are common, and thunderstorms increase as the season progresses.

Overall, Newington Forest experiences a mix of weather conditions throughout the year, with hot and humid summers, mild winters with occasional snow, and pleasant springs and falls transitioning between the extremes.

Neighborhoods

Newington Forest is a census-designated place located in Fairfax County, Virginia. It is a diverse community with several neighborhoods that offer a range of amenities and attractions. Here are some of the neighborhoods within Newington Forest:

Newington Forest

This is the main neighborhood in the area and gives the community its name. It is a well-established neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The community is known for its tree-lined streets, parks, and recreational facilities.

Newington Station

Located adjacent to the Newington Forest neighborhood, Newington Station is a planned community featuring single-family homes and townhouses. It offers a range of amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, and playgrounds. The neighborhood is known for its well-maintained properties and sense of community.

Pohick Village

Pohick Village is a neighborhood within Newington Forest that offers primarily single-family homes. It is known for its spacious lots, quiet streets, and access to green spaces. Many homes in Pohick Village boast large yards, making it an attractive neighborhood for families.

South Run Oaks

Situated in the southern part of Newington Forest, South Run Oaks is a community featuring single-family homes. It is known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained properties, and proximity to South Run Stream Valley Park. The neighborhood provides a peaceful suburban environment.

Newington Woods

Located on the eastern side of Newington Forest, Newington Woods is a neighborhood primarily consisting of single-family homes. The community offers a mix of architectural styles and features spacious lots. It is known for its convenient location and proximity to major highways.

Each neighborhood within Newington Forest has its own unique character and appeal, but all offer a family-friendly atmosphere and access to amenities such as parks, community centers, and schools. The area provides a suburban lifestyle while still being close to the amenities and employment opportunities of Fairfax County and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Nearby Cities