Best lakes around Jersey City offer a blend of urban nature and recreational opportunities within and near this vibrant New Jersey city. Situated across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Jersey City provides access to diverse waterfront landscapes. The area features both urban reservoirs transformed into wildlife preserves and man-made lakes within extensive parks. These locations serve as significant green spaces for outdoor activities and nature observation.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
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Harlem Meer is an artificial lake located in the northeast corner of Central Park in New York. It is west of Fifth Avenue.
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It's a bit like the Parc de la Tête d'Or
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New York's green lung! ... breathe deeply and enjoy the peace and quiet. 🧘🏼♀️
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The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, also known as Central Park Reservoir, is a large lake in Central Park. Despite being in the center of Manhattan, sitting on the side of the reservoir is one of the most peaceful places you could be in the city.
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Most amazing park I've ever visited🥰🇺🇸👌
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Great view of the city's skyscrapers over the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. It covers 43 hectares and holds 3.8 million litres of water. The average depth is 8.8 m.
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From here you can look out from the second highest point in Central Park for sweeping views of the Turtle Pond and Manhattan. The castle was constructed in 1872 with the purpose of being a scenic viewpoint. The architecture is intended to mimic Gothic and Roman styles and admission is free.
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Within Jersey City, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 offers a unique urban wildlife preserve, and Edgewood Lake in Lincoln Park is popular for fishing. Just nearby, Liberty State Park provides expansive waterfront views and recreational opportunities on Upper New York Bay. For those willing to travel a bit further, lakes like Greenwood Lake and Lake Hopatcong in New Jersey offer more extensive recreational activities.
Yes, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 is a significant historic site. Constructed between 1871 and 1874, it was once part of the city's waterworks system. It features Egyptian Revival-style walls and Romanesque Revival pump stations, and is listed on both state and federal registers of historic places. You can learn more about its history at nj.gov.
Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 has transformed into a unique urban wildlife preserve, home to diverse animal and plant species, including great blue herons and peregrine falcons. Liberty State Park also features wildlife habitats and nature trails, offering opportunities for bird watching and observing local flora.
Absolutely. Lincoln Park, home to Edgewood Lake, is ideal for family outings with extensive recreational facilities like playgrounds, tennis courts, and walking trails. Liberty State Park is also very family-friendly, offering picnic areas, playgrounds, and wide-open spaces for various outdoor activities, along with ferry access to historical sites.
Yes, Edgewood Lake in Lincoln Park is a man-made lake that is accessible for fishing, making it a popular spot for anglers within Jersey City.
Yes, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 has a recently renovated loop trail perfect for a peaceful stroll and nature observation. Lincoln Park also offers walking trails, and Liberty State Park features a two-mile promenade called Liberty Walk, along with other nature trails.
Beyond walking and nature observation, you can enjoy various activities. Lincoln Park offers tennis, baseball, and general recreation. Liberty State Park is excellent for hiking, biking, and offers opportunities for boating or canoeing on the Hudson River and New York Bay. For cycling enthusiasts, there are several road cycling routes around Jersey City, such as the 'Liberty Landing Marina loop', which you can explore further in the Road Cycling Routes around Jersey City guide.
Yes, the waterfront areas near Jersey City's water bodies are popular for running. For example, routes like the 'Colgate Clock – View of the Manhattan Skyline loop' offer scenic runs. You can find more options in the Running Trails around Jersey City guide.
Liberty State Park offers spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island from its promenade. Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 provides a tranquil 'green oasis' view within the urban landscape. While not in Jersey City, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir East Side in Central Park, New York, is known for its great views over the city skyline.
Yes, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 is surrounded by historic Egyptian Revival-style walls and features Romanesque Revival pump stations. Additionally, Liberty State Park is home to the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, adding a significant historical element to your visit.
Visitors appreciate the blend of urban nature and recreational opportunities. The tranquility of places like Jersey City Reservoir No. 3, the extensive facilities at Lincoln Park, and the iconic views and diverse activities at Liberty State Park are frequently highlighted. The ability to find peaceful green spaces and active recreational spots so close to a major city is a key draw.
Yes, Jersey City Reservoir No. 3 is recognized as an urban wildlife preserve and is an excellent spot for bird watching, with species like great blue herons and peregrine falcons observed there. Liberty State Park also provides wildlife habitats and nature trails conducive to bird observation.
Many of Jersey City's parks and waterfront areas, including Lincoln Park and areas leading to Liberty State Park, are accessible via local public transport options. Specific routes and schedules can be checked with local transit authorities for the most up-to-date information.


Still not found your perfect lake around Jersey City? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.