Burke Lake is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Fairfax County, Virginia. Water quality is graded C based on 2 sampling years through 2026. Compared to the 1 other monitored lakes in Fairfax County, Burke Lake ranks #1 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, Virginia DNR, last sampled 2026-06-16. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
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Swimming Safety
Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality
Water Quality Grade: C, Fair
Murky, only visible to about 4.9 ft. Phosphorus level: 30 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a: 8.5 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 53.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 4.9 ft | D |
| Phosphorus | 30 µg/L | C |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | 8.5 µg/L | C |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 53 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
Where to stay near Burke Lake
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Fishing Burke Lake
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #1 of 2 lakes in Fairfax County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
Burke Lake holds Grade C. 4 nearby lakes hold higher grades.
- ASmith LakeStafford County · 19.5 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- ABeaverdam Creek Reservior LakeLoudoun County · 21.6 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- ABeaverdam Creek ReservoirLoudoun County · 22.5 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- BGoose Creek ReservoirLoudoun County · 23.6 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
Nearby Lakes in Fairfax County
Explore Burke Lake across LakeGrade
More Virginia Lake Rankings
Other Grade C Lakes in Virginia
Eutrophic Lakes in Virginia
More records, surveys & data sources
Data Sources
Water quality data from the EPA Water Quality Portal
Grading methodology based on Metropolitan Council standards
Most recent sample: 2026-06-16
Monitoring stations: 2