Essex County Park
Essex County Park is a well-maintained and inviting park in West Orange, NJ, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. It features a 1.7 to 2-mile paved, lit, and level loop around a scenic lake suitable for jogging, walking, and wheelchair access. The park includes a gated playground great for kids, picnic areas with tables, multiple benches and Adirondack chairs, fishing spots around the reservoir, onsite parking, public restrooms, and is dog-friendly. Nearby amenities include a small zoo, zipline, and cozy cafés. It is a family-friendly spot with good facilities for pets and accessible paths operating year-round.
Reviews
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.
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!🤷🏽♀️
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.