Passaic River County Park

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Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Passaic River County Park is a scenic park located in the state of New Jersey.


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Summary

This park is an ideal destination for those who are looking for a serene and peaceful place to relax. There are several good reasons to visit this park, including its beautiful scenery, numerous recreational activities, and rich history.

Some of the specific points of interest in this park include the historic Lambert Castle, the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, and the Rifle Camp Park. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking on the park's trails, playing golf at the county-owned golf course, and picnicking in the designated areas.

The Passaic River County Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and fish. Visitors can observe the wildlife while walking on the park's trails or by spending some time fishing in the river.

One interesting fact about this park is that it was once the site of numerous mills and factories that supported Paterson's textile industry. The park's historical significance can be seen through its many historic buildings and structures, including the Lambert Castle.

The best time of year to visit Passaic River County Park is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most colorful. Visitors can enjoy the park's natural beauty and take part in outdoor activities without the heat and humidity of the summer months.

Overall, Passaic River County Park is an excellent destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature and history.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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