Weasel Brook Lake

For residents of Clifton, New Jersey, and beyond, discovering green spaces that offer both tranquility and a wide array of activities is a true luxury. Weasel Brook Park, a beautiful 19-acre Passaic County park, stands out as one such invaluable local treasure. Nestled in the bustling city, this park provides a verdant oasis, inviting individuals, families, and even their beloved pets to step away from the everyday and immerse themselves in a thoughtfully designed outdoor environment.

What makes Weasel Brook Park particularly special is its pedigree. Like many of New Jersey's cherished parks, it bears the distinguished mark of the Olmsted Brothers firm, the same landscape architects responsible for iconic spaces like Central Park in New York City. This heritage is evident in its picturesque meadows, gently curving pathways, and scenic viewpoints, all meticulously crafted to create a harmonious blend of natural beauty and recreational functionality. Originally centered around Weasel Brook, which historically powered local mills, the park has evolved to become a modern recreational hub while retaining its historic charm. It's a place where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll, engage in active sports, or simply relax amidst nature, all within the convenient bounds of Clifton.

From its inviting pathways to its family-friendly amenities, Weasel Brook Park is more than just a park—it’s a dynamic community space that fosters health, recreation, and connection, making it a perfect destination for any New Jersey local.

Weasel Brook Park is ideally located in Clifton, NJ 07011, USA, with a primary address often cited as 794 Park Drive or 1 Westervelt Place, Clifton, NJ 07011. This central location in Passaic County makes it easily accessible for residents of Clifton and surrounding towns. The park's design and urban integration ensure convenient access for visitors arriving by car or on foot.

The park benefits from street parking options, allowing visitors to find convenient spots close to their preferred entry points. Its placement within a populated area means it's often within walking or short driving distance for many locals, encouraging spontaneous visits and regular use. As a county park, it is well-maintained and clearly signposted, guiding visitors to its various amenities. The ease of accessibility contributes significantly to its popularity as a beloved local green space, ensuring that a refreshing outdoor escape is always within reach for the community.

Weasel Brook Park offers a diverse range of services and amenities, catering to a wide array of recreational interests and age groups, ensuring a satisfying experience for all visitors:

• Walking and Bike Paths: The park features well-maintained walking paths that are perfect for leisurely strolls, invigorating runs, or peaceful bike rides. These paths wind through the park's scenic landscapes, offering a pleasant way to enjoy the outdoors.

• Playgrounds: A popular spot for families, the park includes well-equipped playgrounds with various structures for children to climb, swing, and play, designed for safety and fun.

• Spray Park: A delightful feature, especially during warmer months, the spray park provides a fun and refreshing water play area for children, offering a cool escape from the summer heat.

• Basketball Courts: For sports enthusiasts, the park includes basketball courts, providing a great space for pickup games, practice, or just shooting hoops.

• Multipurpose Fields: Open fields within the park are suitable for various activities, including frisbee, casual games of soccer, or simply enjoying the open green space.

• Picnic Areas: Designated picnic areas with tables are available, making the park an ideal spot for outdoor meals, family gatherings, or group events.

• Restrooms: Clean and accessible public restrooms are provided, ensuring comfort and convenience for visitors during their stay.

• Fitness Equipment: The park includes outdoor fitness equipment, allowing individuals to incorporate a workout into their visit while enjoying the fresh air.

• Scenic Overlooks: Various points within the park offer picturesque views of the surrounding nature, perfect for photography or quiet contemplation.

• Dog-Friendly: The park is a favorite among dog owners, offering a welcoming environment for leashed dogs to enjoy walks alongside their human companions. Reviews praise it as a "furbabies favorite place to go."

• Historic House Museum: The Vanderhoef-Westervelt House, one of the oldest buildings in Passaic County (built c. 1720), is located within the park. It serves as an extension of the Departments of Cultural & Historic Affairs and Parks & Recreation, offering meeting space and exhibitions on local history.

• Pickleball Courts: As an added amenity, Weasel Brook Park features dedicated outdoor pickleball courts, complete with permanent lines and nets, catering to the growing popularity of this sport.

Weasel Brook Park offers several standout features and highlights that contribute to its appeal and make it a cherished resource for the Clifton community and beyond.

• Olmsted Brothers Legacy: A significant highlight is the park's design by the renowned Olmsted Brothers firm, dating back to its designation and construction between 1930 and 1937. This connection to the architects of Central Park lends a distinct aesthetic and thoughtful layout, characterized by picturesque meadows, curving pathways, and scenic viewpoints. This professional design ensures a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment for all visitors.

• Historic Vanderhoef-Westervelt House: The presence of the Garritse–Doremus–Westervelt House (also known as the Vanderhoef-Westervelt House) within the park is a major draw. Built around 1720-1785, this Dutch Colonial stone farmhouse is one of the oldest buildings in Passaic County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It serves as a cultural and historical extension of the county, hosting exhibitions and offering meeting space, connecting visitors with the rich local history.

• Dynamic Recreation for All Ages: The park's comprehensive amenities, including playgrounds, a spray park, basketball courts, multipurpose fields, and pickleball courts, ensure that it caters to a wide spectrum of ages and interests. This versatility makes it a go-to destination for families, sports enthusiasts, and individuals seeking diverse outdoor activities.

• Dog-Friendly Environment: Weasel Brook Park is notably welcoming to dogs, making it a favorite for pet owners in the area. The positive reviews from "furbabies" owners attest to its suitability for leisurely walks with leashed companions, offering a valuable outdoor space for pets to enjoy.

• Well-Maintained and Scenic: Visitors consistently praise the park's cleanliness and the dedication of the staff to its upkeep. The "perfect" rating from a reviewer reflects the high quality of the park's environment. Its scenic overlooks and the presence of Weasel Brook itself contribute to a tranquil and visually appealing setting, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.

• Community Hub: Beyond its facilities, Weasel Brook Park serves as an active community hub, frequently hosting events and programs organized by the Passaic County Parks & Recreation Department, fostering community engagement and providing enriching experiences.

As a public park managed by Passaic County, Weasel Brook Park primarily offers free access to its facilities for the enjoyment of all residents. "Promotions" or "special offers" typically refer to various programs, events, and activities hosted by the Passaic County Parks & Recreation Department or the Passaic County Arts & Cultural Affairs department, which utilize the park's spaces.

To stay informed about these valuable opportunities, New Jersey residents should regularly check the official Passaic County Parks & Recreation website and their calendar of events. Examples of ongoing or recurring "promotions" that might be found at Weasel Brook Park include:

• Multi-Sports Programs: The Passaic County Recreation Department partners with organizations to offer introductory multi-sports programs for children (e.g., ages 3-4), introducing fundamentals of various sports in a non-competitive environment. These programs, often with a nominal registration fee, promote physical and social development.

• Community Garden Events: The Weasel Brook Community Garden often hosts events like "Wednesday Weeders," inviting volunteers to help maintain the garden, fostering community involvement and green thumb skills.

• Educational Programs at the Vanderhoef-Westervelt House: The historic house within the park periodically hosts exhibitions on local history and offers educational programs, which are often free or have a minimal charge.

• Seasonal Activities: Depending on the season, the park may host special events like outdoor movie nights, fitness classes (e.g., Zumba), or nature-focused walks led by park rangers.

These offerings provide excellent opportunities for locals to engage with the park, learn new skills, socialize, and enjoy the diverse recreational possibilities beyond a casual visit. Always consult the official Passaic County channels for the most current schedule and registration details.

For more information about Weasel Brook Park, including details on its amenities, specific event schedules, or inquiries about the historic house, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 794 Park Drive, Clifton, NJ 07013, USA (Note: While 788 Lafayette Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011 is provided, 794 Park Drive is commonly cited for the park's main access and is associated with Passaic County's official park listing. The park spans various access points within the Clifton 07011/07013 area.)

• Phone: (973) 881-4833 (This is the general contact number for the Passaic County Parks & Recreation Department, which oversees Weasel Brook Park and its programs.)

• Mobile Phone: +1 973-881-4833 (This number is typically the same as the main phone for the department.)

• Passaic County Parks & Recreation Website: For the most current information, event calendars, facility details, and program registration, visit the official Passaic County government website's Parks & Recreation section (

  passaiccountynj.org

  ).

• Vanderhoef-Westervelt House: For information specific to the historic house and its exhibitions, you can contact the Passaic County Department of Cultural & Historic Affairs directly, or visit their section on the county website.

• Operating Hours: Weasel Brook Park is generally open to the public during daylight hours, typically from dawn to dusk, allowing ample time for various activities. Check the county website for any specific gate or facility hours.

It is always recommended to verify specific details through official Passaic County channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Weasel Brook Park stands as an indispensable asset for locals throughout New Jersey, particularly those residing in Clifton and the greater Passaic County area. Its suitability for residents is rooted in its unique blend of historical significance, diverse recreational offerings, and unwavering commitment to community well-being.

Firstly, the park's distinguished design by the Olmsted Brothers firm provides a beautiful and thoughtfully laid-out environment. This connection to renowned landscape architecture elevates the park beyond a simple green space, offering a truly aesthetic experience that encourages appreciation for nature and design. Coupled with the presence of the historic Vanderhoef-Westervelt House, the park offers a unique opportunity for locals to engage with both natural beauty and rich local history, right in their backyard.

Secondly, the sheer variety of amenities caters to nearly every age group and interest. For families, the playgrounds and refreshing spray park are perfect for children to play safely and joyfully. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy basketball and newly added pickleball courts, along with multipurpose fields for casual games. Dog owners rave about it being a "furbabies favorite place," highlighting its welcoming nature for leashed pets and providing essential outdoor space for furry companions. The extensive walking and bike paths offer ample opportunities for exercise and relaxation, contributing to the physical and mental well-being of the community.

Moreover, the park's consistent maintenance by Passaic County ensures a clean, safe, and enjoyable environment for all visitors. This dedication to upkeep, combined with the park's role as a vibrant community hub hosting various programs and events, fosters a strong sense of local pride and belonging. Whether it's for a quick escape, a family outing, a sports practice, or a historical exploration, Weasel Brook Park offers something truly special for every local, making it an irreplaceable part of the Clifton community.

Weasel Brook Lake

Clifton, NJ 07011, USA