James A. McFaul Environmental Center

 

The James A. McFaul Environmental Center is dedicated to providing a space where Bergen County residents can learn about and experience the natural environment.

The main building, which overlooks the waterfowl pond, has an Observatory, browsing library and natural science exhibits.

Winding paths on this site bring you to through a nature trail to woodland gardens and animal shelters. A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk takes you along the edge of the pond to a two-story observation platform.

A covered picnic pavilion is available near the main building, and another open, wooded picnic area sits on top of a hill.

The park hours are dependent on the season. As of now, the hours are:

Weekdays: 8am-6:45pm
Weekends and Holidays: 8:30am-6:45pm

Before You visit:

The James A. McFaul Environmental Center is open year-round to the public. All groups of 10 or more must have a Park Use Permit. More information about fees.

Wedding photo permits are available. Professional photography also requires a permit.

For schools and other groups, a large selection of nature education programs are conducted weekdays by our staff. There are special public programs conducted throughout the year.

The indoor exhibit contains live native animals, freshwater aquariums, natural history displays, and monthly art or theme displays.

The observatory overlooks a butterfly/hummingbird garden and a pond which supports various species of waterfowl.

Nature-study workshops and lectures are offered to children and adults throughout the year. Call Center for times.

The 81-acre park has flowering displays throughout the warm-weather months.

The park is carry-in/carry-out, so trash must be removed or placed in dumpsters located in each parking area.

The park is a wildlife sanctuary; all plants and animals are protected by law.

No feeding of wildlife.

No pets of any kind are permitted in the park

Contact the environmental center

You can contact the Center at 201-891-5571 or email us, We are also on Facebook at @McFaulEnvironmentalCenter.

You can also contact the Parks Department at 201-336-7275, on Facebook and Instagram at @BergenCountyParks, or on Twitter at @BergenCtyParks.

FAQ’s

  • Yes, the Environmental Center is open to everyone.

  • We offer in-person programs for grades Pre-K – 6th. Please take a look at all the programs we have to offer. All programs can be modified for adults.

    Programs are available on weekdays only, excluding legal holidays. Please take our suggested age ranges into consideration when booking. Click here to download reservation forms.

  • There are no garbage cans. The park is carry-in/carry-out, so trash must be removed or placed in dumpsters located in each parking area.

  • There is no grilling allowed on our property.

  • Each situation is unique, so please contact us to discuss: 201-891-5571.

  • Each situation is unique, so please contact us to discuss: 201-891-5571.

  • More often than not, it is in the animal's best interest to be left where they are. Please call us for help: 201-891-5571.