Essex County Park - West Orange, NJ
Essex County Park – A Dog-Friendly Gem in West Orange, New Jersey
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Essex County Park, a beloved pet-friendly outdoor destination ideal for families and dog owners in West Orange, NJ. Featuring a scenic paved loop around the reservoir, this park is perfect for dog walking, jogging, and leisurely strolls year-round. The path is wide, level, and features lighting for evening visits, with snow removal ensuring accessibility during winter months. Nature enthusiasts will love the abundant wildlife views, and there are ample picnic spots and benches for rest or snacks along the way.
Essex County Park stands out as a dog-friendly park in West Orange, New Jersey, with onsite parking, wheelchair accessibility, and nearby attractions like a small zoo and adventure zipline. Families appreciate the well-maintained gated playground for kids and the variety of activities ranging from hiking and fishing to enjoying the serene lake. With plentiful seating, picnic tables, and restrooms, it’s a welcoming spot for everyone, including your canine companions. Don’t forget to visit local cafes nearby for a post-walk treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at Essex County Park? Yes, dogs are welcome throughout the park and are commonly seen on the trails and walking areas.
- Is Essex County Park wheelchair accessible? Yes, both the entrance and parking lots are wheelchair accessible, and the main path is paved and level.
- Is there seating available? Yes, benches and Adirondack chairs are distributed throughout the park for visitors to relax.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available in the parking area and at the pavilion.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a gated playground and several kid-friendly activities within the park.
- Is there onsite parking? Yes, the park offers a large onsite parking lot that is rarely full.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there is a scenic paved loop around the reservoir that is ideal for walking and jogging with your dog.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the park is open year-round, with the path maintained in winter conditions.
- Is Essex County Park good for picnics? Yes, picnic tables and designated picnic areas are available for visitors to enjoy meals outdoors.
- Are there pet-friendly cafes or stores close to the park? Yes, several cozy, pet-friendly cafes are situated nearby for refreshments after your park visit.
Reviews
Peaceful paved path alongside the zoo, and a lake surrounded by lush greenery. Meander around the 2-mile loop then stop at McLoone’s Boathouse for a fresh daily seasonal menu or beverage. One of my favorite places to go and be to nature watch
This park is a fantastic spot for outdoor activities and relaxation. The two-mile loop around the lake is perfect for jogging or a leisurely walk, offering scenic views and plenty of fresh air. Fishing is allowed, adding an extra recreational option, and there’s a designated picnic area for those who want to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Benches and chairs are thoughtfully placed around the lake, making it easy to sit back and take in the peaceful surroundings. Families with young children will appreciate the gated playground, providing a safe and fun space for kids to play. It’s also a great place for dog walking, making it a welcoming spot for pet owners.
Overall, this park is a well-maintained and inviting place for exercise, relaxation, and spending quality time with family, friends, or pets.
Today is deer management day, but this park, and only this park, that I know of, is open until noon.
Nice program, but the deer have fled to Newark, my spouse saw them near Dunkin Donuts, and the City Grocery Store, this morning. I think they got the memo that today is management day!🤷🏽♀️
It was an unforgettable trip for us, highlighted by a unique swan boat ride. You can take a peaceful walk around the lake, surrounded by stunning nature. The area is full of life—many people are out walking their dogs, jogging, or engaging in various sports. Nearby, there’s a small zoo and a zipline for adventure seekers. Plenty of cozy cafés are scattered around where you can relax, and the prices are quite reasonable. I highly recommend visiting this charming spot !!!!
Best place to go for a walk in West Orange, Livingston, or Short Hills. The path around the reservoir is 1.7 miles long, paved, wide, and level. The path is lit at night and shoveled in the winter so it’s usable year round. Great for waking, jogging, strollers, wheelchairs, little kids, and dogs. In the lake you’ll find geese, ducks, cormorants, herons, egrets, turtles, and a variety of fish large and small. The parking lot is very large and we’ve never seen it full. Bathrooms are available in the parking area and at the pavilion. Multiple benches line the walk to take a break on while the pavilion and sitting area at the dam are full of adirondack chairs. Picnic tables are available in the parking area and pavilion. Multiple fishing spots circle the reservoir where you can cast unobstructed by shrubs.