Hunterdon County celebrates Parks and Recreation Month, to unveil renovated Echo Hill Park pond
HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — Hunterdon County is celebrating Parks and Recreation Month in July while preparing to officially open the newly renovated pond area at Echo Hill Park following the completion of a major restoration project.
The Hunterdon County Board of County Commissioners has designated July as Parks and Recreation Month, recognizing the role parks, trails and recreational programs play in improving quality of life, promoting healthy lifestyles and protecting natural resources.
“Hunterdon County is fortunate to have an incredible network of parks and natural spaces that provide residents with opportunities to explore, exercise, learn, and connect with nature,” Commissioner Director John Lanza said. “Our parks are more than just open spaces — they are places where families create memories, children learn about the environment, and residents of all ages can enjoy the many physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors.”
As part of the county’s ongoing investment in its parks system, officials will hold a grand opening ceremony Monday, July 21, for the renovated pond area at Echo Hill Park. The project, which broke ground in August 2025, included dam improvements, construction of a new walking bridge and expanded accessibility features.
County officials said the restoration enhances recreational opportunities while improving the health and sustainability of the pond’s ecosystem. The sluiceway was opened June 26 to begin refilling the pond, and wildlife including frogs, turtles, snakes, dragonflies and birds has already returned to the area.
The project also added an ADA-accessible fishing dock that will improve fishing access and serve as a launch point for kayaks and canoes, supporting paddle sports training and future county recreation programs. An accessible trail around the pond has also been constructed to expand opportunities for fishing, wildlife observation and outdoor recreation.
Additional improvements include the installation of air diffusers to help maintain water quality and support a healthy fish population. During the grand opening ceremony, the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife will stock the pond with largemouth bass, bluegills, golden shiners and fathead minnows.
“The Echo Hill Park improvements are a great example of the County’s commitment to preserving our natural resources while making recreation more accessible for everyone,” Lanza said. “We are excited to welcome residents back to this beautiful area and see them enjoy all that this renewed space has to offer.”
More information about Hunterdon County Parks and Recreation programs, events and facilities is available on the Hunterdon County website.
