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Jersey City

Top 18 Lakes around Jersey City

Best lakes around Jersey City offer a blend of urban nature and recreational opportunities within and near this vibrant New Jersey city. Situated across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Jersey City provides access to diverse waterfront landscapes. The area features both urban reservoirs transformed into wildlife preserves and man-made lakes within extensive parks. These locations serve as significant green spaces for outdoor activities and nature observation.

Best lakes around Jersey City

  • The most popular lakes include Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir East Side, a lake with views over the city skyline. It offers a peaceful setting despite its urban location.
  • Another must-see spot is Harlem Meer, a lake in Central Park with a path ideal for strolls. It is a popular destination for park visitors.
  • Visitors also love Prospect Park, a natural area featuring a lake and man-made wetlands. The park is known for its 3.35-mile loop, popular with cyclists.
  • Jersey City is known for urban reservoirs, man-made lakes within parks, and larger natural areas. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from tranquil preserves to active recreational spots.
  • The lakes around Jersey City are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 360 upvotes and over 140 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: April 27, 2026

Bethesda Fountain and Terrace

Highlight • Monument

Gorgeous fountain system

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At this lake you have a great view over the houses on the opposite shore.

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Harlem Meer

Highlight • Lake

Harlem Meer is a small lake in Central Park and a popular destination for park visitors. It has a great path around it, ideal for a leisure stroll or a relaxing break on one of the benches.

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Belvedere Castle

Highlight • Castle

In the 19th century, a castle was built on the top of Vista Rock, a 450-million-year-old rock. Until the 1960s, this location was used by the New York Meteorological Observatory to predict the weather. The name Belvedere comes from the Italian and means "beautiful view" and is absolutely justified.

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Central Park South

Highlight • Forest

Add park ok, but not too outstanding. Nevertheless after walking in between cars and steel/concrete towers for a day being in the green feels almost like a mini vacation already.

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Tips from the Community

Darphin
April 1, 2026, Harlem Meer

Harlem Meer is an artificial lake located in the northeast corner of Central Park in New York. It is west of Fifth Avenue.

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It's a bit like the Parc de la Tête d'Or

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New York's green lung! ... breathe deeply and enjoy the peace and quiet. 🧘🏼‍♀️

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The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, also known as Central Park Reservoir, is a large lake in Central Park. Despite being in the center of Manhattan, sitting on the side of the reservoir is one of the most peaceful places you could be in the city.

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Most amazing park I've ever visited🥰🇺🇸👌

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Im Do
April 22, 2025, Belvedere Castle

Most amazing park I've ever visited🥰🇺🇸👌

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Great view of the city's skyscrapers over the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. It covers 43 hectares and holds 3.8 million litres of water. The average depth is 8.8 m.

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Zachary
September 4, 2024, Belvedere Castle

From here you can look out from the second highest point in Central Park for sweeping views of the Turtle Pond and Manhattan. The castle was constructed in 1872 with the purpose of being a scenic viewpoint. The architecture is intended to mimic Gothic and Roman styles and admission is free.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular lakes and water bodies to visit in and around Jersey City?

Within Jersey City, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 offers a unique urban wildlife preserve, and Edgewood Lake in Lincoln Park is popular for fishing. Just nearby, Liberty State Park provides expansive waterfront views and recreational opportunities on Upper New York Bay. For those willing to travel a bit further, lakes like Greenwood Lake and Lake Hopatcong in New Jersey offer more extensive recreational activities.

Are there any historic lakes or water features in Jersey City?

Yes, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 is a significant historic site. Constructed between 1871 and 1874, it was once part of the city's waterworks system. It features Egyptian Revival-style walls and Romanesque Revival pump stations, and is listed on both state and federal registers of historic places. You can learn more about its history at nj.gov.

What kind of nature and wildlife can I expect to see around Jersey City's lakes?

Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 has transformed into a unique urban wildlife preserve, home to diverse animal and plant species, including great blue herons and peregrine falcons. Liberty State Park also features wildlife habitats and nature trails, offering opportunities for bird watching and observing local flora.

Are there family-friendly activities available at lakes near Jersey City?

Absolutely. Lincoln Park, home to Edgewood Lake, is ideal for family outings with extensive recreational facilities like playgrounds, tennis courts, and walking trails. Liberty State Park is also very family-friendly, offering picnic areas, playgrounds, and wide-open spaces for various outdoor activities, along with ferry access to historical sites.

Can I go fishing in any of the lakes in Jersey City?

Yes, Edgewood Lake in Lincoln Park is a man-made lake that is accessible for fishing, making it a popular spot for anglers within Jersey City.

Are there walking or hiking trails around the lakes in Jersey City?

Yes, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 has a recently renovated loop trail perfect for a peaceful stroll and nature observation. Lincoln Park also offers walking trails, and Liberty State Park features a two-mile promenade called Liberty Walk, along with other nature trails.

What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

Beyond walking and nature observation, you can enjoy various activities. Lincoln Park offers tennis, baseball, and general recreation. Liberty State Park is excellent for hiking, biking, and offers opportunities for boating or canoeing on the Hudson River and New York Bay. For cycling enthusiasts, there are several road cycling routes around Jersey City, such as the 'Liberty Landing Marina loop', which you can explore further in the Road Cycling Routes around Jersey City guide.

Are there running trails near the lakes in Jersey City?

Yes, the waterfront areas near Jersey City's water bodies are popular for running. For example, routes like the 'Colgate Clock – View of the Manhattan Skyline loop' offer scenic runs. You can find more options in the Running Trails around Jersey City guide.

What are the best lakes for scenic views near Jersey City?

Liberty State Park offers spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island from its promenade. Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 provides a tranquil 'green oasis' view within the urban landscape. While not in Jersey City, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir East Side in Central Park, New York, is known for its great views over the city skyline.

Are there any lakes near Jersey City with historical landmarks?

Yes, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 is surrounded by historic Egyptian Revival-style walls and features Romanesque Revival pump stations. Additionally, Liberty State Park is home to the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, adding a significant historical element to your visit.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes and water bodies around Jersey City?

Visitors appreciate the blend of urban nature and recreational opportunities. The tranquility of places like Jersey City Reservoir No. 3, the extensive facilities at Lincoln Park, and the iconic views and diverse activities at Liberty State Park are frequently highlighted. The ability to find peaceful green spaces and active recreational spots so close to a major city is a key draw.

Are there any lakes near Jersey City that are suitable for bird watching?

Yes, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 is recognized as an urban wildlife preserve and is an excellent spot for bird watching, with species like great blue herons and peregrine falcons observed there. Liberty State Park also provides wildlife habitats and nature trails conducive to bird observation.

Is there public transport access to lakes from Jersey City?

Many of Jersey City's parks and waterfront areas, including Lincoln Park and areas leading to Liberty State Park, are accessible via local public transport options. Specific routes and schedules can be checked with local transit authorities for the most up-to-date information.

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Still not found your perfect lake around Jersey City? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

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