When it comes to swimming spots, New Jersey isn’t lacking. We’ve got gorgeous ocean beaches all along our coast, river beaches, lake beaches, bay beaches, municipal pools, quarries, waterparks… If you’d like to take a dip, the Garden State has got you covered. Of course, there are more New Jerseyans than swimming spots, so some can get crowded. If you’re looking to discover a hidden gem, here it is.
Graydon Pool has been a local favorite since 1918, when it was created by damming the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. Expanded in 1936, the natural pool offers sandy shores and stunning blue water.
The pool spans 2.6 acres and is filled with 3.8 million gallons of sparkling spring water.
Beloved for decades, it hit a rough patch around a decade ago. Membership declined as it got a reputation for being a bit on the dirtier side. It has since been cleaned up with new diffusers and natural chemicals.
For a while, there were plans to replace the lake with a concrete pool but the community came together to save it.
And we're so glad they did. Just look at that turquoise hue.
The pool offers other perks, including an adjacent park and waterside cafe. You'll also find fountains, a picnic area, volleyball and basketball courts, ping-pong, shuffleboard, four-squares, hop-scotch, backgammon, a lending library and storytime under the Graydon pavilion for the little ones.
There are also classes available including swimming, stand up paddle boarding, yoga (on the water and off), and kayaking. How fun! This picturesque natural pool is open to all, with discounted season passes available to Ridgewood residents. Day passes are available to locals only, or guests of residents. You can find the Graydon Natural Pool at 200 Northern Parkway in Ridgewood. For another incredible natural swimming hole in New Jersey, check out the Highlands Natural Pool by clicking here.
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