jeaninep Overpack Park has been a mainstay in Bergen County for over 50 years; its 850 acres span across several towns and attracts visitors from all over the tri-state area. Situated between Degraw Avenue, which turns into Fort Lee Road (& vice versa depending on your direction of arrival), there are two sides to the park itself, and it sits on the waters of Overpeck Creek. Read on for more about Overpeck Park in Bergen County.
The Grand Lawn
This always makes me think of a mini Central Park in New York City. The track surrounds the lawn area. When the weather gets nice, you will witness sunbathers, picnickers, people playing games and flying kites, and relaxing with their dogs. Also, in this area is the 9/11 Memorial for the Bergen County residents who lost their lives on that tragic day.
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Walking, Running, Skating, Biking
Both areas of the park have paths for walkers, runners, skaters, and bicyclists. No e-bikes or scooters are permitted on the pathways.
Don’t Forget our Animal Friends
The Dog Park is an area that you and your furry canine friend can enjoy and make new acquaintances, as they safely run in a gated space.
The Bergen Equestrian Center, established in 1974, is a multi-service horse facility on 22 acres and home to over 75 beautiful horses. There are three outdoor riding rings and two indoors. The park has children’s camps, group and individual riding lessons, and corporate team building.
Team Sports
The park consists of baseball, softball, and soccer fields (must have a permit); basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts; and a stationary wall for racquet sports (first come first serve). If you enjoy watching local sports grab a seat in the bleachers on the weekend or weeknights.
On the Water
Kayaking has just opened for the season. You can bring your own and launch on the creek or rent through the Hackensack River Keeper. It is $30 per person for 2 hours, and they have 23 Single Kayaks, 14 Tandem Kayaks, 2 Sea Kayaks (with rudders), 7 Canoes, 3 SUPs and 7 Fishing Rods.
To fish, you must have the mandatory permit for freshwater fishing; then it is $15 for 3 hours; rods & reels rental, you can bring your own sinkers and lures, and if you need bait, some locations have it available.
Let’s Have a Picnic & Play
Throughout both sides of the park are picnic tables, benches, and beautiful green plots to situate your blanket and have a snack, lunch, or small party.
Let’s Dance
Did you know that there is an Amphitheater at Overpeck, too? Live music, concerts, festivals, and so much more fill the outdoor space, and the surrounding lawn can accommodate 3000 people.
Greenery Scenery
Nestled in the park, near the creek and past the equestrian area are the Butterfly Garden, Native Plant Garden, and much more. I had the pleasure of speaking with a volunteer, and they have created a natural and sustainable area that responds to the cycle of life and the role that animals, insects, fish, birds, reptiles, and plants play in it.
Upcoming Events
There will be a big celebration for America’s 250th Anniversary on July 4th. Bergen County’s Star Spangled Spectacular premieres with the Sugar Hill Gang headlining at the Amphitheatre during the day, food trucks, a wine & beer garden, and of course, fireworks at night.
Good to Know
As for amenities, there is free public parking available near each main area and even several Jolt electric car charging stations, as well as public restrooms. Hours are from dawn to dusk, and sometimes it extends until 10PM in certain areas if the lights are kept on outdoors. Note that the park itself does not have a web page or social media site. The best place to keep up on events is at Bergen County Parks on social media.
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