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BBQ and picnic spots

Packing up barbecue for a picnic turns a meal into an event. Eating outside with your hands is the only way to do it properly.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ross Dock Picnic Area image 1
Ross Dock Picnic Area image 2
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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.

BBQ facilities come with ample parking and a peaceful environment next to the river. The area suits family gatherings and offers a beautiful setting for barbecues.

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 BBQ 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
Rahway River Park image 1

Narrow forested area along a river offers a peaceful and quiet setting with well-maintained walking paths. Facilities include a large swimming pool, playgrounds, tennis courts, and spacious sports fields. The park supports family gatherings and outdoor recreation in a clean, tranquil environment.

Built-in BBQ grills are scattered throughout the park, making it easy to host large gatherings. The setting offers picnic and playground areas alongside spots designed for barbecues.

Several picnic tables sit in scenic, shaded areas surrounded by greenery. Spaces accommodate family gatherings and BBQs, offering a peaceful natural setting for meals and relaxation.

People are saying

"The parks here are super clean and well-kept."

"It's a great place for family picnics with plenty of shady spots."

"It's a great spot for BBQ with built-in grills all over."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, and finding a spot can be challenging.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during events, especially on weekends.

3

The park hosts various events, including a weekly bike event on Tuesdays from 6 to 7 PM.

03
Alvin P. Williams Memorial Park image 1

Memorial park offers beautiful water views and spacious grassy areas for picnics and relaxation. It maintains a clean, peaceful atmosphere with family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, running paths, and BBQ facilities. The environment feels relaxing and pleasant, attracting small, quiet crowds.

Built-in barbecue grills provide a dedicated spot for cooking. The area supports easy group gatherings with BBQ facilities integrated into the park.

Lots of grass and a peaceful picnic area make it good for picnics. The picnic pits are limited and weekends get a bit busy.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with great waterfront views."

"It's great that the park has BBQ facilities with built-in grills."

"I loved having a picnic with the great sea breeze and nice views."

Good to know

1

Entry to the park is free for everyone.

2

The park is well-maintained and clean.

3

The park has a .8 mile walking loop for walking and running.

04
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 barbecues using charcoal or firewood. A BBQ grill is available, and the spot includes kid-friendly activities alongside a nice view.

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."

"It's great for grilling and picnicking at these parks."

"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.

05
Eagle Rock Reservation image 1

Memorial park offers spacious grassy lawns and walking trails with spectacular views of the NYC skyline. The atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, providing a quiet place for reflection and outdoor activities. A poignant 9/11 memorial adds a solemn, respectful tone to the setting.

Spacious BBQ area with picnic tables supports family gatherings and barbecues. Large open space allows kids to play freely during cookouts.

Large open spaces with grassy lawns make it easy to spread out a blanket for a picnic or barbecue. Plenty of room suits families looking to relax or play with kids.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful view of New York City."

"The view of New York at night from here is amazing."

"It's a great spot for BBQ with plenty of space for everyone."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at Eagle Rock Reservation.

2

The park offers a nice view of the city.

3

Some areas are littered, but the park is generally well maintained.

06
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 tables and benches spread throughout. Picnic spots sit near playgrounds and river views, making it easy to grill and hang out.

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."

"You'll find plenty of picnic areas with tables and BBQs here."

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.

07
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 signals the incredible BBQ served here.

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."

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

"I thought the pulled pork sandwich 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.

08
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 gatherings and events. Plenty of seating and scenic views make it easy to enjoy outdoor cooking and picnics.

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 great having BBQs in these clean, scenic picnic areas."

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.

09
Loantaka Brook Reservation - Recreation Area image 1

Large park offers paved and gravel trails alongside a creek, suitable for walking, biking, and wheelchairs. The atmosphere is peaceful and family-friendly, with playgrounds and picnic areas scattered throughout. Visitors enjoy clean, well-kept spaces that support activities like barbecues and sports.

A small pavilion with picnic tables and a few BBQs makes grilling easy. The nearby playground adds fun while cooking.

A large open mowed field sits next to a playground and a picnic area with tables and a small pavilion. BBQs are available near the picnic spots.

People are saying

"I loved the park's beautiful paved trails for walking and biking."

"I found the picnic spot scenic with a beautiful lake and paved paths."

"I loved the playground and the BBQ area."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy at the Recreation Area, making access convenient.

2

The park is dog-friendly, allowing pets on leashes.

3

Most trails are paved, making them accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

10
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.

Many BBQ pits and grills are available for use. The area supports group gatherings with facilities like bathrooms and a basketball court nearby.

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."

"It's a great spot for a family BBQ with plenty of pits."

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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