Lakeside Living in Bergen County: Top Towns for Waterfront Homes and Recreation

While Bergen County is often celebrated for its proximity to Manhattan and world-class shopping, locals know that our region’s true hidden gems are its serene lakes, tranquil ponds, and sprawling reservoirs. Whether you are looking for a primary residence with an infinity view of the water or a community that offers private beach access and kayaking, Bergen County’s waterfront lifestyle is unparalleled.

In this guide, we’re highlighting the top destinations in Bergen County that offer the best of “life on the water,” including the expansive impact of the Oradell Reservoir.

Table of Contents

Franklin Lakes: The Gold Coast of Lakefront Estates

Woodcliff Lake: Reservoir Views & Upscale Serenity

Oakland: The Heart of Lake Community Living

Wyckoff: Tranquil Ponds & Nature Sanctuaries

Upper Saddle River: Rural Luxury & Private Lake Clubs

The Oradell Reservoir: A Multi-Town Waterfront Hub

Waterfront Quick Reference Table

Franklin Lakes: The Gold Coast of Lakefront Estates

Franklin Lakes is the definitive destination for luxury lakefront living in Bergen County. The town is dotted with beautiful bodies of water, most notably Franklin Lake and the Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve.

• The Real Estate: You’ll find some of the county’s most magnificent custom estates along Scioto Drive and surrounding neighborhoods, where homes often feature private docks and sweeping views.
• Recreation: The Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve is a 120-acre oasis offering a massive lake for fishing and “car-top” boating (kayaks and canoes). Its miles of wooded trails provide a scenic backdrop for residents year-round.

Woodcliff Lake: Reservoir Views & Upscale Serenity

Named after its primary feature, Woodcliff Lake offers a unique blend of natural beauty and sophisticated suburban life. The Woodcliff Lake Reservoir defines the town’s geography and provides a stunning visual anchor for the community.

• The Real Estate: Homes situated along the western edge of the reservoir enjoy breathtaking sunset views. The real estate market here is characterized by spacious properties and quiet, winding roads.
• Recreation: While the reservoir itself is a protected water source, the town offers the Old Mill Pool and Wood Dale County Park, which features a large pond perfect for fishing and walking paths with water views.

Oakland: The Heart of Lake Community Living

If you are looking for a true “lake town” feel, Oakland is the place to be. It offers a more rustic, community-oriented lifestyle centered around its multiple water features.

• The Real Estate: Oakland is famous for Crystal Lake and Ramapo Lake. You can find everything from cozy updated lake cottages to newer luxury townhomes.
• Recreation: Crystal Lake Community Beach is a resident-only hotspot where families gather for swimming and sand volleyball. For the more adventurous, a hike up to Ramapo Lake offers a secluded, high-elevation water experience.

Wyckoff: Tranquil Ponds & Nature Sanctuaries

Wyckoff excels in “passive recreation” and picturesque pond-side living. The town’s commitment to preserving its natural ponds creates a serene, park-like atmosphere throughout the community.

• The Real Estate: Many of Wyckoff’s premier properties back up to the lush woodlands of the McFaul Environmental Center or sit adjacent to hidden community ponds.
• Recreation: Zabriskie Pond Park is a local favorite, hosting the annual fishing derby. The James A. McFaul Environmental Center features a waterfowl pond and 81 acres of nature programs, making it a hub for local families.

Upper Saddle River: Rural Luxury & Private Lake Clubs

Upper Saddle River maintains a rural charm, and its water features are often the focal point of its most exclusive neighborhoods.

• The Real Estate: Real estate here is defined by one-acre minimum lots, giving waterfront properties a level of privacy that is hard to find elsewhere.
• Recreation: Anona Lake is the crown jewel—a private, neighborhood-owned lake featuring a sandy beach, swimming, and kayaking. It serves as a social hub for residents, hosting summer barbecues and movie nights.

The Oradell Reservoir: A Multi-Town Waterfront Hub

The Oradell Reservoir is one of the most significant environmental and aesthetic features of Central Bergen County. Unlike private community lakes, this massive reservoir spans several towns, offering expansive “protected views” that will never be developed.

• Benefitting Towns: Oradell, Haworth, Emerson, Harrington Park, and Closter all border the reservoir, with each town enjoying unique benefits:
• Oradell: The “East Hill” section features homes with commanding views of the water. Residents enjoy the proximity to the historic dam and the Hackensack River greenway.
• Haworth & Harrington Park: These towns offer some of the most peaceful, residential streets that dead-end into reservoir-adjacent woods, providing a “forever wild” backyard feel.
• Emerson: Often called “The Family Town,” Emerson benefits from the reservoir’s cooling effect and the scenic driving routes that skirt the water’s edge.
• Recreation: While swimming is prohibited to protect the water supply, the reservoir is a paradise for fishing (with a Veolia permit) and birdwatching. It is a major migratory stopover for bald eagles and ospreys. A popular 6.7-mile loop trail also provides hikers and bikers with breathtaking vistas.

Waterfront Quick Reference Table