Natural swimming hole
Darlington County Park Swim Lakes
Lake · New Jersey
About this swimming hole
Bergen County's 178-acre lake park at the foot of the Ramapo Mountains: two of its three lakes allow swimming, one with a white-sand beach and one with the Wibit floating obstacle course, while the third is catch-and-release fishing only. Guarded swimming runs Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, 10am to 6pm; the park has hit capacity on busy days.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day |
| Fees | $12 Bergen County residents; $20-$25 non-residents (2026 rates; verify current) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | 10am-6pm in swim season |
| Parking | 600 Darlington Ave lot; arrive by 10am on busy days |
| Amenities | lifeguards, restrooms, picnic tables, playground, concession |
| County | Bergen County |
| Nearest town | Mahwah |
| Safety notes | Swim only in the two designated swim lakes while guards are on duty |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Darlington County Park Swim Lakes?
Yes — Darlington County Park Swim Lakes is listed as a natural swimming spot in New Jersey. Heads-up: Swim only in the two designated swim lakes while guards are on duty. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Darlington County Park Swim Lakes require reservations?
No reservations are required at Darlington County Park Swim Lakes based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Darlington County Park Swim Lakes?
Reported fee info: $12 Bergen County residents; $20-$25 non-residents (2026 rates; verify current). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Darlington County Park Swim Lakes?
The best season is typically Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day.