Bergen County Parks System

How many of you rode the train at Van Saun County Park in Paramus? Here is a 1960s photo of the iconic train at the park. The train, built by the Allen Herschell Company, has been a favorite now for generations of Bergen County residents. The train ride (technically called “The Bergen County Railroad”) officially opened on August 1, 1963.

This 24-inch-gauge railroad features three trains: the #388, which accompanied the opening, the #389 acquired in 1968 and the #520 which was added in 1971. The Allan Herschell Company (a maker of amusement rides from 1915-1970), based the locomotive design from those made by the Rogers Locomotive Works in Paterson (and Paterson was once part of Bergen County).

Fun Fact! In 1825, Col. John Stevens, to prove his ideas would work, constructed and demonstrated the first American railroad train on his estate in Hoboken. At that time Hoboken was in Bergen County, thus the first American railroad train was first operated in Bergen County. That 1825 railroad ran on a circle of track one-half-mile long. The beloved Van Saun Park train also runs on a one-half-mile long circle of track! The train is still very popular, and I even rode it twice yesterday with my 21-month grandson yesterday! – Tim Adriance (Photo credit: Michael DeValue's father.)

We are pleased to announce that thanks to YOUR contributions during Members’ Night at the Bergen County Zoo, we now have names for our three new green araçaris! Say hello to… 🥁

Papaya, Guava, and Mango! Araçaris are frugivores, meaning that they mainly eat fruit. Pappaya’s, guavas, and mangoes are all found within araçaris’ native range, making these fitting names! Fly on by to our zoo and come see them in person!

The wait is over, Bergen County! Our Movies & Music in the Park Summer Series is here! We've got another great selection of blockbusters and showstoppers the whole family can enjoy! Bust out the lawn chairs and blankets for more fun and relaxing summer nights at 4 of our Bergen County parks! We hope to see you there! 🎸🎥😎

Happy National Trails Day! Our Bergen County Parks offer some of the most scenic trails and hikes in the area, and we encourage everyone to come out, explore, and appreciate the natural beauty of our County! Check out the list below of some of our favorite walking paths and trails! (List in order of appearance)

🌲 Ramapo Valley County Reservation - 610 Ramapo Valley Rd., Mahwah
🌲 Artesian Fields County Park - 211 Mola Blvd., Elmwood Park
🌲 Borg's Woods Nature Preserve - Allen St & Fairmount Ave., Hackensack
🌲 Overpeck County Park (Teaneck Creek Conservancy) - 20 Puffin Way, Teaneck
🌲 James A. McFaul Environmental Center - 150 Crescent Ave.,
Wyckoff

The World Cup is approaching, and we've got a watch party at Overpeck County Park you're invited to!⚽️ Beer garden, food trucks, DJ, live music, and more! Head to the link in our bio to secure your spot at one of the hottest World Cup watch parties in the area!🎉

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Darlington County Park just made #1 on the list of the best NJ Swimming Spots by the Family Travel Forum! Darlington is open this weekend for more summer fun under the sun! ⛱️☀️ 10AM-6PM at 600 Darlington Ave. in Mahwah! We will be open EVERY DAY beginning June 19! 😎🌊

12 New Jersey Swimming Spots With Crystal-Clear Water Perfect For Summer 2026 Forget the tropics. New Jersey hides sparkling quarries and pristine lakes so clear, you can count your toes while floating under a perfect summer sky.