Make A Splash This Summer

Want to cool off outdoors? These Bergen pools and spray parks are open to all residents.
Cheryl De Leon,
2 Make Splash

With another stretch of hot, humid July weather settling over Bergen, there’s no better time to take the plunge. Don’t fret if your yard doesn’t have a spot for splashing around: Several public pools across the county offer residents and visitors a refreshing summer escape, whether you’re looking to cool off with the kids, swim laps or simply relax poolside.

From sprawling aquatic complexes with high dives and slides to neighborhood pools perfect for a leisurely afternoon, these destinations make it easy to beat the heat. Here are some of Bergen’s best public pools where anyone can spend a sunny summer day making a splash.

  • Bogota Swim Club. All Bergen residents can register for either a seasonal membership or daily pass at this club.
  • Darlington County Park. The county’s main summer destination is open for lake swimming and features a splash zone, grills, walking paths and other amenities.
  • New Milford Swim Club. This pool offers both borough residents and nonresidents the option to purchase seasonal or daily passes. Separate passes are available for those wishing to swim laps in the lap pool.
  • Palisades Park Swim Club. Seasonal membership and daily passes are offered to all Bergen County residents.
  • Paramus Town Pool. Memberships for individuals residing in and out of Paramus are available for the entire 2026 season as well as a per-month basis.

Splash pad central

Do you have young ones who aren’t quite ready to test deep waters? Bergen also is home to many free splash pads, where people of all ages can cool off under sprinklers and water sprayers.

  • Carver Park. This Hackensack facility, also known as Second Street Park, has a splash park that’s idea for everyone, especially after using the on-site playground and basketball courts.
  • Memorial Park. This park along New Bridge Road is one of two Bergenfield facilities equipped with a refreshing splash pad.
  • Ross Applegate Park. Bergenfield’s other splash pad is located at this park on Hickory Avenue.
  • Van Saun County Park. The Paramus park is ADA accessible and has extended hours (10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) during summer heatwaves.
  • Votee Park. Teaneck’s largest park has a splash pad that’s open to all county residents through late September. Votee Park’s community pool is open only to Teaneck residents.
  • William T. Birch Park. Chill out at Fort Lee’s spray park, which also has a playground with slides, swings and more.

For those wanting to splash around on a quick day trip, these water parks (including one in our own backyard) are the perfect destination on a hot and humid day.

How do you stay cool during summer? Share your favorite waterside shots with us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.

 

Categories: Bergen Health & Life