The move is an effort by the Board of Supervisors to help reduce crowding and parking issues at the park. Residents of Stafford and the City of Fredericksburg will park for free with a valid ID showing residence.

“This park is in a flood zone and was never meant to be a high-capacity destination venue. The water on that stretch of the river is also hazardous,” said the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. “While this was a difficult decision, we think charging for parking will cut down on some of the crowding from visitors, not from Stafford or Fredericksburg, making it a safer experience for everyone.”