Woodcliff Lake Historic Park

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Woodcliff Lake Historic Park, located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, is a charming and historically significant destination worth visiting.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Situated in Bergen County, the park offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich past while providing a tranquil and picturesque setting for relaxation.

One of the primary reasons to visit Woodcliff Lake Historic Park is its historical significance. The park encompasses the remnants of the Van Riper-Hopper House, a Dutch Colonial homestead dating back to the 18th century. This well-preserved house served as a focal point during the Revolutionary War, as it was used by General George Washington as a headquarters during his retreat across New Jersey in November 1776. Visitors can explore the house and its outbuildings, gaining insight into the region's role in American history.

Furthermore, the park offers beautiful natural surroundings, including a picturesque lake and serene walking trails. Woodcliff Lake, after which the town is named, provides a tranquil setting for boating, fishing, or simply enjoying peaceful moments by the water's edge. The park's well-maintained trails offer opportunities for leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Interesting facts about Woodcliff Lake Historic Park include its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural and historical significance. Additionally, the park is home to the annual Revolutionary War reenactment event, where visitors can witness living history demonstrations and gain a deeper appreciation for the region's past.

The best time of year to visit Woodcliff Lake Historic Park is during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring, the park comes alive with vibrant blossoms and lush greenery, making it an ideal time for nature lovers. Autumn offers breathtaking foliage displays, transforming the park into a colorful wonderland. Visitors can also enjoy pleasant weather during these seasons, making it more comfortable to explore the park's attractions and engage in outdoor activities.

When researching Woodcliff Lake Historic Park, it is always essential to verify information across multiple independent sources to ensure accuracy and up-to-date details. Consulting official park websites, historical societies, or local tourism authorities can provide reliable and comprehensive information about the park's specific features, events, and visiting guidelines.

       

Weather Forecast

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.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks