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Top picks in New Jersey

Barbecue picnic spots

You want the convenience of a picnic without having to compromise on the quality of your barbecue.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Ross Dock Picnic Area image 1
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Picnic ground offers expansive skyline views and a peaceful riverside setting with plenty of barbecue facilities and playground structures. The area feels spacious and quiet, attracting groups for picnics and small gatherings. Visitors enjoy walking trails and scenic vistas of a nearby bridge, creating a visually striking atmosphere.

Grills and picnic tables sit next to the river, creating a peaceful environment for barbecues. Ample parking and BBQ facilities support family gatherings and outdoor meals.

Picnic tables and grills make it easy to barbecue and eat outdoors. The area offers panoramic views of the GW Bridge and a peaceful, wooded setting by the river with ample parking and restrooms.

People are saying

"I loved picnicking with the amazing view of the bridge and skyline."

"This Meditation Spot is so peaceful and quiet."

"The barbecue here has amazing views of the bridge and city."

Good to know

1

State troopers patrol after hours and begin ticketing cars.

2

The picnic area has benches, a playground, and restrooms.

3

Parking can be expensive, especially on weekends.

02
Englewood Picnic Area image 1

Scenic walkways beside the Hudson River offer stunning views of the George Washington Bridge and Manhattan towers. The area stays quiet and relaxing, with ample space for picnics and barbecues. It attracts families and dog owners seeking natural surroundings away from city noise.

Two large areas offer space for family barbecues using charcoal or firewood. A BBQ grill is also available for use, making it easy to cook outdoors.

Quiet and spacious with fewer children, this picnic area offers public grills and plenty of room for groups. The natural setting provides fresh air and nice scenery, but bugs can be an issue, so arriving early is best due to limited picnic tables.

People are saying

"It's a great place to barbecue with a view."

"I loved grilling and picnicking with plenty of fresh air."

"I thought it was a good spot for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to secure a picnic table due to limited availability.

2

The bathrooms are currently under renovation, with only port-a-potties available.

3

The area is kid-friendly and offers plenty of space for activities.

03
Hopatcong State Park image 1

State park on a large freshwater lake offers picturesque views and spacious grounds with multiple playgrounds and BBQ areas. Atmosphere is generally peaceful and relaxing, with occasional noise near family areas. Facilities support activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Multiple BBQ pits and grills spread across large open spaces support family barbecues and events. Plenty of seating and scenic views make it easy to enjoy outdoor cooking and gatherings.

Well-maintained picnic areas include tables and grills for outdoor meals. The spot offers beautiful lake views and plenty of space for family gatherings and celebrations.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, spacious place for a picnic."

"I loved the nice view of the lake."

"It's a great place for a family barbecue with plenty of grills."

Good to know

1

A $40 fee is charged for out-of-state visitors to launch watercraft and park.

2

The parking lot fills up quickly during peak summer months, so arrive early.

3

The beach is closed until the season starts, typically around late spring.

04
Colonial Park image 1

Spacious park with huge old trees and well-designed landscaping featuring green plants and colorful flowers. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, ideal for walking and family activities. Offers diverse amenities like paddle boats, splash pad, dog park, and picnic areas with grills.

Multiple BBQ areas with grills and picnic benches spread across the park offer spots for small picnics or get-togethers. These zones sit alongside playgrounds and walking trails, making them easy to access and family-friendly.

Large park offers picnic spots with grills and plenty of tables. Beaches and garden areas add to the space for walking and relaxing during a picnic.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be beautiful and clean."

"I enjoyed having picnics at the park with picnic tables and grills."

"It's a great spot for barbecue and picnics."

Good to know

1

The splash park has free admission during summer.

2

The water park is free and accessible during summer.

3

The bathrooms are locked, so plan accordingly.

05
Duke Island Park image 1

Spacious park with paved trails, large playground, and numerous picnic areas including grills and pavilions. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, surrounded by nature with open meadows and a waterfall. Popular for family outings, walking, cycling, and group activities.

Plenty of BBQ areas with grills and picnic tables make it easy to cook and eat outdoors. Visitors can enjoy barbecuing alongside river scenery and playgrounds.

Plenty of picnic tables, grills, and shaded areas make it easy to set up meals outdoors. Large open spaces and a playground add to the family-friendly picnic vibe.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and great for kids."

"It's a great place for a family picnic with plenty of space."

"It's a great spot for a barbecue with plenty of areas."

Good to know

1

The park hosts summer concerts on weekends, perfect for family outings.

2

Parking is available on-site, making it easy to access the park.

3

Dogs must be leashed at all times while in the park.

06
Johnny Rippas image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor seating with picnic tables spreads across front and back, creating a cozy atmosphere despite nearby busy roads. Music sets a chill vibe but can be loud near windows. Known for authentic birria tacos and flavorful Tex Mex dishes, it offers a unique dining experience tucked in a car dealership lot.

Barbecue features exemplary quality with dishes like birria taco and BBQ baked beans with pork standing out. The aroma alone suggests the barbecue is incredible.

Seating includes picnic tables spread apart in the back near tall pine trees providing shade. No garbage cans are available close to the tables.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"I found the barbecue here to be delicious and incredible."

"The pulled pork sandwich for our picnic was superb."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as food is made fresh to order.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for specials during peak lunch hours.

3

Outdoor seating is available but may be uncomfortable in bad weather.

07
Somerset Patriots Baseball image 1

Baseball club offers family-friendly atmosphere with engaging activities for kids and adults alike. Seating provides great views from every spot, complemented by a well-maintained facility and a lively, energetic vibe. Entertainment includes games, giveaways, and fireworks, creating a fun, immersive experience.

A BBQ area sits along the leftfield lines with picnic benches for seating. Group outings require a minimum of 30 people and an extra fee, making it a distinct way to enjoy the game.

Picnic tables and a BBQ area along the leftfield lines offer spots to eat and watch the game. A picnic area can be reserved for parties, and tickets sometimes include a picnic with pulled pork available.

People are saying

"I had a lot of fun at the live sports games."

"It's a great time out with family and friends."

"I loved watching the game from the Barbecue area's picnic tables."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5 for the event.

2

The venue is very kid-friendly and great for families.

3

Fireworks shows happen after select games, adding to the experience.

08
Cheesequake State Park image 1

Large wooded areas and wooden walkways along marshes create a peaceful, spacious environment. Multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails support family activities and outdoor recreation. An artificial beach and water activities add variety to the natural setting.

BBQ pits are available for use, supporting group gatherings like morning prayer BBQs. Facilities include bathrooms and campsite rentals, making it convenient for family barbecues.

Many picnic benches and grills spread across the park offer plenty of spots to eat outdoors. Clean restrooms, a playground, and a snack bar support comfortable, family-friendly picnics.

People are saying

"The parks here have scenic and easy trails for a pleasant walk."

"It's a beautiful, peaceful place perfect for a family picnic."

"You can go hiking, swimming, and have a barbecue here."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $10 per car for New Jersey residents and $20 for non-residents.

2

There is plenty of parking at the park.

3

Visitors are expected to carry in and carry out their trash, with no garbage left behind.

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