Step into the world of environmental exploration with the Wonder Wagon, the Fairfax County Park Authority’s innovative new mobile nature center. The initiative, shaped by a significant amount of community input, is designed to bring nature programs and engaging experiences to communities throughout Fairfax County and particularly those where accessing the Park Authority’s five brick-and-mortar nature centers may be challenging.

“Everyone in Fairfax County, no matter where they live, should have the ability to access the outstanding nature programs offered by the Fairfax County Park Authority. These programs are much more than just being able to identify a particular bird, bug or bud. They teach us about our connection to the wider world and how we, through the small and simple choices we make each day, truly have the power to help promote the kind of healthy, beautiful environment we all wish to live in.” 

Jai Cole, Executive Director, Fairfax County Park Authority

The Wonder Wagon is not just a van; it’s an experience. The Wonder Wagon team brings free nature and stewardship education to residents of all ages through engaging guided activities. Our trained naturalists help spot, identify and teach about plants and wildlife within the community – even in urban environments. Activities and demonstrations also help residents understand their connection to their local environment and how simple, everyday actions can help enhance water quality, care for land, plants and animals, and increase the enjoyment we can all experience living in a healthy environment. 

The unveiling of the Wonder Wagon at the 2024 Earth Day Festival officially kicks off an amazing new program with the goal of participating in 150 programs this year and serve more than 3,500 community members. The Wonder Wagon is available for public events, outreach and public-school activities. For more information about the Wonder Wagon or to request a visit, go to www.fairfaxcounnty.gov/parks/wonder-wagon.  

The Wonder Wagon was made possible thanks to the significant support of local community members and nature enthusiasts and the financial support provided from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and dozens of generous contributions including Pohanka Automotive; the Scott A. & Phyllis P. Crabtree Family Foundation Inc.; National Park Service / Chesapeake Gateways; and The Environment Fund of the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia; through the Fairfax County Park Foundation.