Overpeck County Park wilderness guide
County Park · NJ

Overpeck County Park

Overpeck County Park is a large urban park in Bergen County, New Jersey, offering extensive recreational facilities, waterfront access, and a diverse range of outdoor activities ideal for families, sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

County Park8114+ Trails

Designation

County Park

Total Wilderness Area

811

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Overpeck County Park

Overpeck County Park is a large urban park in Bergen County, New Jersey, offering extensive recreational facilities, waterfront access, and a diverse range of outdoor activities ideal for families, sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Overpeck County Park spans over 800 acres along the Hackensack River in Bergen County, New Jersey. Originally a tidal marshland, the park was developed and opened in the late 20th century to provide urban residents with natural and recreational amenities. The park's geography features a mix of wetlands, forested areas, open fields, and waterfront sections, creating habitats for a variety of wildlife including migratory birds and aquatic species. Historically, the area was significant for its industrial past and environmental remediation efforts transformed it into a green public space. Key recreational opportunities include multi-use trails for walking, running, and cycling; sports facilities such as baseball and soccer fields; fishing along the Hackensack River; and several playground and picnic areas. The river access supports kayak and canoe launching, making water-based activities popular. Notable landmarks within the park include the Overpeck Marina, the outdoor workout stations, and scenic overlooks of the river and surrounding wetlands. The park is favored by local residents and visitors for its blend of natural setting and comprehensive recreational infrastructure, serving as an important green space in the heavily developed New Jersey metropolitan region.

Field Guide · County Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Overpeck County Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Hackensack River waterfront with fishing and boating access✦ Multi-use paved and unpaved trails for walking, running, and biking✦ Extensive sports complexes featuring baseball, soccer, and tennis facilities✦ Environmental education areas showcasing restored wetlands and wildlife habitats
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Overpeck County Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Running

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Tennis

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Soccer

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Baseball

Available in Overpeck County Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Overpeck County Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Overpeck County Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access with multiple parking lots available; some sports fields may require permits for organized play

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Overpeck County Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ridgefield Park, New Jersey
⌖ 0.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ridgefield Park, New Jersey

Ridgefield Park, NJ offers a relaxed outdoor setting with river trails, kayaking on the Hackensack River, and local parks perfect for biking, fishing, and bird watching. It’s an easy-access spot for gentle adventures close to NYC.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Ridgefield, New Jersey
⌖ 1.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ridgefield, New Jersey

Ridgefield, New Jersey offers easy access to several parks and waterways perfect for hiking, biking, and paddling adventures. Located near the Hackensack River and Overpeck County Park, it’s a quiet entry point to nature escapes just outside the city.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Leonia, New Jersey
⌖ 2.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Leonia, New Jersey

Leonia, New Jersey offers a quiet escape with access to riverfront paths, forested trails, and nearby Palisades Interstate Park. Ideal for hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching, it’s a friendly basecamp for outdoor lovers seeking convenient nature close to NYC.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hackensack, New Jersey
⌖ 2.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hackensack, New Jersey

Hackensack offers urban and suburban outdoor adventures with easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching along the Hackensack River and Bergen County Reservation. It’s a versatile base for exploring riverfront trails and regional green spaces.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Wood-Ridge, New Jersey
⌖ 2.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wood-Ridge, New Jersey

Wood-Ridge, NJ offers a calm suburban atmosphere with access to parks, trails, and nearby waterways. Perfect for casual biking, paddling, and bird watching, it’s a quiet getaway within easy reach of the city.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Teaneck, New Jersey
⌖ 2.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Teaneck, New Jersey

Teaneck, NJ offers quick access to woodlands, rivers, and parks ideal for hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching. Perfect for families and day-trippers seeking nature close to the NYC metro area.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Overpeck County Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

A River of Fire: Fall Foliage from Edgewater to the Lower Hudson
ADVEXPEDITION
Edgewater, New Jersey
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

A River of Fire: Fall Foliage from Edgewater to the Lower Hudson

A serene, 3-hour charter along the Hudson River aboard a 34' Silverton motor yacht—this guide points you to the best viewing line from the George Washington Bridge northward into the lower Hudson Valley.

Sightseeing TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip