Top 5 Lakes around Passaic
Lakes around Passaic offer diverse recreational opportunities within Passaic County, New Jersey. This region features a variety of lakes, including those within state forests and county parks, providing natural landscapes for outdoor activities. The area is characterized by preserved open spaces and a park system that supports exploration and community engagement.
Best lakes around Passaic
- The most popular lakes is Branch Brook Park, a historical site and park that features a lake. It is recognized as the nation's first…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
Barbour Pond
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Overpeck Park Kayak Center
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Clark's Pond
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Branch Brook Park
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Verona Park
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Branch Brook Park is the nation's first county park. In 1981 it was placed on the National Registers of Historic Places. There are several trails that run through the park that are popular with joggers and walkers.
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Verona Park is a 55-acre park that is part of the Essex County park system. There are several trails that run through the park, including the Lenape Trail. The park also has a lake, playground, picnic areas and a restroom.
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Clark's Pond is one of the centerpieces of Branch Brook Park. The paths in the park run alongside the pond and there are several spots with benches if you want to take a break during your jog.
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Barbour Pond is the largest body of water in Garret Mountain Reservation. There is a trail that runs along the banks of the pond, so you can get a good view of the water during your run.
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Barbour Pond is the biggest reservoir within the Garret Mountain Reservation. The park features hiking trails that travel on both sides of Barbour Pond and are often utilized by those looking to fish the waters. There are a couple cool overlooks of the pond just off the side of the trail.
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The Overpeck Creek forms a wide branch here, framed in green nature. In addition to taking a break, you can also borrow a kayak or canoe here to distribute the load fairly between your legs and arms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Passaic are best for families?
Several lakes in the Passaic area are great for families. Barbour Pond within Garret Mountain Reservation offers hiking trails and a peaceful wooded setting. Branch Brook Park, which includes Clark's Pond, is the nation's first county park with trails and picnic spots. Shepherd Lake is a 74-acre park with swimming, boat rentals, a playground, and picnic tables, making it ideal for a family day out. Greenwood Lake also offers a vibrant atmosphere with swimming, boating, and jet skiing, along with restaurants and shops.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
The lakes around Passaic offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching around Ramapo Lake. Shepherd Lake provides swimming, boat rentals, and access to hiking trails. For fishing, Monksville Reservoir and Greenwood Lake are excellent choices, known for diverse fish species. Overpeck Park Kayak Center allows you to rent kayaks or canoes to explore the water. Many lakes also have trails suitable for walking and jogging.
Are there good hiking trails around the lakes in Passaic County?
Yes, many lakes in Passaic County feature excellent hiking opportunities. Barbour Pond has trails along its banks with overlooks. Ramapo Lake is within Ramapo Mountain State Forest, offering extensive hiking trails. Shepherd Lake also has accessible hiking trails from its grounds. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes in the region, such as the Otto C. Pehle Lake Loop or Mills Reservation Loop. Find more details on these trails at Hiking around Passaic.
Which lakes are best for fishing?
Monksville Reservoir is renowned for its excellent fishing, with species like channel catfish, lake trout, largemouth bass, muskie, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. Greenwood Lake is also a popular fishing spot, home to catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, northern pike, and yellow perch. Barbour Pond also attracts anglers along its hiking trails.
Can I go swimming in the lakes around Passaic?
Swimming is permitted in some lakes. Shepherd Lake offers swimming with lifeguards on duty during the summer months. Greenwood Lake is also a popular spot for swimming. However, swimming is prohibited in Ramapo Lake. Always check local regulations before entering the water.
Are there any historical sites or parks with lakes nearby?
Yes, Branch Brook Park is a significant historical site. It is recognized as the nation's first county park and was placed on the National Registers of Historic Places in 1981. It features Clark's Pond and offers trails popular with joggers and walkers.
What are the best lakes for paddling or boating?
Greenwood Lake is a popular destination for boating and jet skiing. Shepherd Lake offers boat rentals, including paddle boats, rowboats, canoes, and kayaks. For a dedicated paddling experience, the Overpeck Park Kayak Center allows visitors to rent kayaks or canoes to explore a wide branch of Overpeck Creek.
Are there any lakes with scenic viewpoints?
Yes, Ramapo Lake offers spectacular views of the water and surrounding rock formations. Barbour Pond, located within Garret Mountain Reservation, has hiking trails along its banks that provide good views and overlooks of the water. Monksville Reservoir also offers scenic views, particularly when crossing the dam on Stonetown Road.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Passaic?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer is vibrant at Greenwood Lake for swimming and boating. The surrounding state forests and parks offer beautiful scenery for hiking and birdwatching during spring and fall. Winter can be quiet, but Greenwood Lake allows for snowmobiling over its frozen landscape. Always check specific lake conditions and park hours before your visit.
Are there running trails near the lakes?
Yes, several lakes and parks offer running trails. Branch Brook Park has trails popular with joggers and walkers around Clark's Pond. Barbour Pond also has trails along its banks suitable for running. You can find more running routes, such as the Barbour Pond loop from Woodland Park or the Brookdale Park loop, at Running Trails around Passaic.
Which lakes are part of larger park systems?
Ramapo Lake is located within the Ramapo Mountain State Forest. Shepherd Lake is a 74-acre park. Barbour Pond is the largest body of water within Garret Mountain Reservation. Branch Brook Park, featuring Clark's Pond, is the nation's first county park. Verona Park is a 55-acre park that is part of the Essex County park system.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding natural areas are home to various wildlife. Birdwatching is a popular activity around Ramapo Lake and Garret Mountain Reservation (where Barbour Pond is located). The diverse fish populations in lakes like Monksville Reservoir and Greenwood Lake also indicate a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
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