With a Water Park and Handball Court, This Family-Friendly Park in New Jersey Is the Best Summer Day Trip

When the summer days are long and hot, one of the best ways to cool off is at a family day trip park in New Jersey with a sandy beach. These are the destinations where you’ll hear kids’ laughter and playful squeals in between moments of splashing water. Adults are relaxing on the sandy shore, soaking up the sun's rays as they watch the little ones play. Then, a friendly handball challenge completes the day. You can have all that and more at Darlington County Park, a vibrant park in Mahwah, featuring a refreshing swimming lake, a mini-waterpark, and a handball court, along with some great family-friendly features in the summer. The simple joy of these wholesome sun-drenched days is what summer memories are all about.

Why This Is One of the Best Family Day Trip Parks in New Jersey

When the season kicks off on Memorial Day weekend, the park has a modest admission fee, which varies by age, day of the week, and whether you're a Bergen County resident. For a family of three, expect to spend about $50, and it's well worth it. If you ask me, that's a bargain, especially since you'll have access to the wet-and-wild fun within. Amenities include, not one but two swimming lakes, hiking trails, catch-and-release fishing, grills, and picnic spots. Of course, the highlight is the Splash Zone as well as the handball court.

With all the things to do here, it's easy to see why this is our pick for the best family-friendly park in New Jersey. If you’re looking for a laid-back summer day trip in New Jersey, you'll want to add Darlington County Park to your summer bucket list!

Things to Do at This New Jersey Park

Swimming is one of the most popular activities at Darlington County Park. And since there are two lakes here, you'll have lots of room to make a big splash on summer days. With white sandy shores and calm waters, you might think that you're at the beach, making these two of the best swimming lakes in New Jersey. Moreover, during the swim season from Memorial Day to Labor Day, lifeguards are on duty for safety, and the lakes are well-maintained to make it a uniquely safe and welcoming place to splash around.

Speaking of splashing - the Splash Zone is open for business once again, and this inflatable waterpark is full of thrills and fun for young guests. There are two zones, one for kids under 48" and the other for older kids and adults alike. The kids will love jumping, climbing, and hopping across the obstacle course. It could keep them busy for hours. Each session lasts an hour, and once they're done, they can continue swimming in the lake. Life jackets are required for everyone.

When you're done on the water, there's a lot more to do here. This is a popular spot for grilling, but keep in mind that only charcoal grilling is allowed. You can also challenge your family to a fun game of handball, a sport many of us played as kids. If you grew up in the Northeast, this will bring back some fond memories. There is also a basketball court, a fishing lake, and volleyball is also played in the sand next to the beach. You'll for sure have an amazing summer at this fun waterpark in New Jersey.

While summers are the busiest season, as the weather cools down and the cozy season rolls in, the whole place is a beautiful spot to view the fall foliage. Although the waterpark and swimming lakes will be closed, you can take peaceful strolls around the lakes or have a picnic near the shore. The fun never stops here. It's one of the best family-friendly things to do in New Jersey and perfect for a summer day trip.

Have you visited Darlington County Park in Mahwah? You can find out more about the park, including how to purchase tickets, on the Bergen County website, and make sure to follow the Darlington County Park Facebook page for the latest updates on this fun summer destination!

Keep in mind, the park does get crowded, so you'll want to go early or visit on weekdays. Plus, the weekday prices are cheaper, too. Parking is also limited, and I recommend that you carpool, if you can.

There's a lot more to do here than just the park, too - check out our article on why Mahwah is one of the best small towns in New Jersey. And if you're looking for a home base in the area for a few days, we highly recommend the Homewood Suites by Hilton Mahwah - this is the chain I always use when traveling, and I love its roomy suites and free breakfast buffet each morning.