James A. McFaul Environmental Center

James A. McFaul Environmental Center At A Glance...

Features a 'Secret Scented Garden' and an extensive Herb Garden.
The site was originally an 81-acre pig farm before being preserved in 1967.
Includes a two-story observation platform overlooking the waterfowl pond.
Todays Sunrise: 7:16 am, Sunset: 4:58 pm
New Jersey Gateway Region Bergen County

About James A. McFaul Environmental Center

The James A. McFaul Environmental Center is a dedicated wildlife sanctuary that transforms a former 81-acre pig farm into a lush haven for nature lovers. Established in 1967, the park is designed to be a place where visitors can observe local flora and fauna without disturbing the natural habitat. It features a blend of woodland trails, manicured gardens, and a central 2.5-acre pond that attracts a wide variety of waterfowl, making it a favorite spot for photographers and families alike.

Activities:
- Hiking
- Jogging / Running
- Picnicking
- Walking
Amenities:
- Restrooms/Bathrooms
- Parking Lot(s)
- Gardens
- Nature / Environmental Center
- Picnic / Sitting Area
- Picnic shelter(s)
- Picnic tables
Trails:
- Boardwalks
- Flat / Easy
- Self Guided / Nature trail
- Crushed rock
- Natural Surface (Dirt/Roots/Rocks)
- Walking Paths
Rules/Regulations:
- Dogs Not Permitted

Contact / Location

Primary Address:

Get Directions 150 Crescent Avenue,
Wyckoff, NJ 07481

Contact:

Website

A Brief History

The land was originally an 81-acre pig farm until it was purchased by the county in 1962. In 1966, the 2.5-acre pond was excavated, and the site officially opened in 1967. It was renamed in 1987 to honor James A. McFaul, a longtime Bergen County Parks executive director who was instrumental in its development. Today, it stands as a model for reclaiming land for environmental education.

Programs / Education

The center is an active educational hub offering programs for schools and the public.

Summer Workshops: Interactive sessions for children focusing on native flora, fauna, and crafts.
Nature Films: Free nature films are often shown on Tuesdays.
School Programs: Guided tours and science exhibits designed to teach students about the local ecosystem.

Trail & Path Info

The hiking here is gentle and accessible. A highlight is the wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that runs along the edge of the pond, leading to a two-story observation deck. There are also winding woodland paths and a "Short Trail" through the hardwood forest. While not a long-distance hiking destination (totaling about 1 mile), it is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a walk with toddlers.

Things to See & Do

Waterfowl Pond: A 2.5-acre man-made pond teeming with ducks, geese, and turtles.
Specialty Gardens: Explore "Daffodil Hill" in spring, the rhododendron displays, and the unique "Secret Scented Garden" designed to engage your sense of smell.
Indoor Exhibits: The main building houses natural science exhibits, animal shelters (snakes, turtles), and a browsing library.
Observation Platform: A two-story structure offering the best views of the pond and its wildlife.

Trip Ideas

The "Gardens & Geese" Morning: Start with a walk along the boardwalk to feed your curiosity (but not the animals!), visit the scented garden, and then head inside to see the reptile exhibits.
Accessible Nature Outing: This is one of the best spots in the county for visitors with limited mobility to experience a "deep woods" feel thanks to the boardwalk system.

Picnics / Lunches / Eating

Picnic Area: There is a covered picnic pavilion near the main building and an open wooded picnic area on top of the hill.
No Grilling: Fires and grilling are strictly prohibited.
Trash: This is a "Carry-In/Carry-Out" park; there are no trash cans on the trails.