By Keren Abraham
Van Saun County Park is one of those places families return to again and again because it truly works for real life. It’s expansive without feeling overwhelming, thoughtfully designed, and filled with amenities that appeal to kids of different ages as well as adults who want space to relax. I often recommend it to families moving within Bergen County because it offers the kind of outdoor experience that supports both active weekends and casual after-school outings.
Spanning more than 130 acres, Van Saun County Park is one of the most utilized parks in the county, and once you spend time there, it’s easy to see why. From playgrounds and splash pads to picnic areas, rides, and walking paths, it’s a destination that delivers variety without requiring a long drive or complicated planning.
Key Takeaways
- Van Saun County Park offers multiple playgrounds and amenities across a large, well-organized property
- Families can enjoy active recreation, animal encounters, and relaxed picnic areas in one place
- The park is divided into North and South areas, each with its own features
- It’s one of the most versatile family parks in Bergen County
Why Van Saun County Park Works So Well for Families
What sets Van Saun apart is scale and intention. The park is large enough to offer something new each visit, but it’s also laid out in a way that makes it easy to navigate. Families can focus on one area at a time, which keeps outings manageable, especially with younger children.
The mix of passive and active recreation is another reason the park is so popular. You can plan a full day around it, or stop by for just an hour and still feel like you made good use of your time.
What Families Appreciate Most About Van Saun Park
- A wide range of amenities within one park
- Designated areas that help spread out crowds
- Activities that work for toddlers through older kids
- Plenty of green space for unstructured play
- Easy options for combining playtime with downtime
For many residents, it becomes part of their weekly routine rather than a once-in-a-while destination.
The North Area: Playgrounds, Rides, and High-Energy Fun
The North Area of Van Saun County Park is where many families start, especially when kids want activity and excitement. This section is home to some of the park’s most popular attractions and is designed to keep children engaged while still being comfortable for parents.
The playground here is modern and well-maintained, offering equipment that encourages climbing, sliding, and imaginative play. Nearby, the splash pad adds a seasonal favorite that’s especially popular on warm days.
Highlights of the North Area
- A state-of-the-art playground designed for active play
- A splash pad that adds water fun during warmer months
- The Millennium Carousel, a longtime family favorite
- A miniature train ride that loops through part of the park
- Pony rides that younger children especially enjoy
This area also includes picnic tables, making it easy to turn a play session into a longer visit with snacks or lunch.
Picnic Areas and Open Space for Slower Moments
Not every park visit needs to be high energy. Van Saun County Park includes six picnic areas and three pavilions, giving families plenty of options for relaxed gatherings, birthday celebrations, or simple afternoons outdoors.
Both the North and South areas offer picnic tables, so you can choose whether you want to be closer to playgrounds and attractions or prefer a quieter setting.
Picnic-Friendly Features Throughout the Park
- Multiple picnic areas spread across the grounds
- Three pavilions for larger group gatherings
- Shaded spots that work well during warmer months
- Open lawns for blankets, games, or casual play
- A flexible setup that suits quick lunches or longer stays
This balance of activity and calm is one of the reasons the park appeals to such a wide range of families.
The South Area: Trails, Fields, and a More Relaxed Pace
The South Area of Van Saun County Park offers a different experience, one that’s slightly quieter and more focused on open space and recreation. This is where you’ll find additional picnic areas, ball fields, and courts that appeal to older children and adults.
There’s also a pond where fishing is permitted, offering a unique, low-key activity families often enjoy together.
What You’ll Find in the South Area
- Picnic areas with tables in a quieter setting
- Baseball and softball fields
- Tennis courts for casual or competitive play
- A bike path that’s great for riding or walking
- A fishing pond that adds a simple outdoor pastime
This side of the park is ideal when you want space to spread out or prefer a calmer visit.
Playgrounds in Van Saun Park That Grow With Your Family
One of the biggest advantages of Van Saun County Park is that it continues to work as your children grow. The playgrounds in Van Saun Park are designed to accommodate a range of ages, and the surrounding amenities mean the park evolves with your family’s needs.
You might start with short playground visits and carousel rides, then transition to bike paths, sports fields, and longer afternoons outdoors as kids get older.
Why Families Keep Coming Back Over the Years
- Age-appropriate play options across the park
- Activities that appeal to both younger and older children
- Enough variety to avoid feeling repetitive
- Space for family traditions and seasonal outings
- A setting that supports everyday use, not just special occasions
This flexibility is what makes Van Saun one of the most relied-on family parks in the area.
FAQs
What makes Van Saun County Park one of the best family parks in Bergen County?
Its size, variety of amenities, and thoughtful layout make it easy for families to enjoy playgrounds, animal exhibits, rides, and open space all in one location.
Are there multiple playgrounds in Van Saun Park?
Yes. The park includes a major playground in the North Area, along with other kid-focused amenities like a splash pad, carousel, and train rides nearby.
Is Van Saun Park good for both younger and older children?
Absolutely. The park offers playgrounds and rides for younger kids, as well as bike paths, sports fields, and fishing areas that appeal to older children and adults.
Explore Bergen County Living With Keren Abraham
When families ask me what makes certain
Bergen County neighborhoods stand out, access to spaces like Van Saun County Park is always part of the conversation. It’s the kind of place that supports real routines, encourages outdoor time, and adds everyday value to family life.
If you’re considering a move or looking for a home that fits your lifestyle, I’d love to help. Connect with me,
Keren Abraham, and I’ll guide you toward communities that offer the amenities you care about most, including proximity to the best family parks and the well-loved playgrounds in Van Saun Park that make Bergen County such a great place to live.
