MacConnell Park - Cranford, NJ
MacConnell Park – A Tranquil Dog-Friendly Retreat in Cranford, New Jersey
MacConnell Park is a small but beautiful greenspace nestled along Eastman Street in Cranford, New Jersey. This dog-friendly park is known for its peaceful, scenic setting—almost surrounded by the Rahway River, creating a serene peninsula perfect for on-leash walks and photo opportunities with your furry friend. While there’s not a dedicated dog run or fenced area, visitors love the natural ambiance and the sense of quiet tranquility that sets this spot apart from busier urban parks.
Dog owners can enjoy shaded grassy areas, a bench or two for resting, and gentle riverside trails ideal for a leisurely stroll. The park is a popular stopping point within Cranford’s network of connected parks and is well-liked by locals for walking dogs, relaxing, and even launching a canoe or kayak to enjoy the scenic river views. Street parking is available nearby; there is no dedicated lot, but parking in the residential area is typically easy and free for up to two hours.
FAQ for MacConnell Park
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, there is no designated off-leash area—dogs must remain leashed.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, the park does not have a fenced dog run.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are a few benches available for seating.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park features mature trees that offer shaded spots.
- Where is the best place to park? There is no parking lot, but free street parking is available nearby with a 2-hour limit.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, MacConnell Park is part of a network of connected parks and offers pet-friendly trails along the river.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? While there is no dedicated dog swim area, the Rahway River borders the park and is popular for canoeing and kayaking.
Reviews
Nice connections of parks! Really small park but its great for canoeing!
It’s cute. We had a yoga class there in the early morning hours. There’s no actual parking lot but most of the roads near it allow parking for 2 hours with no issues n the streets weren’t busy as is all residential. But it’s literally just a patch of grass/trees where I was n I did see one benchto sit on n someone canoe by which was interesting. It’s perfect if you just want a quiet area to breathe n not want to go far.
Very nice peninsular Park bounded by the Rahway River. Great for pictures and walking your dog.
Rented 1 doble kayak for 2 ppl, 2 hrs NULL, worth it. Loved it.
A nice little Park that is along Eastman Street. Not much there except for a couple of tables. But it is a nice quiet place. The Rahway River does a 180 degree turn around the park. This ads to the beauty and serenity of the place. The river views from the two Bridges over the river next to the park are very pretty also.