This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Kids & Family

Are you a pool or a lake person? Parsippany's got it all!

Hurry before June 2nd or 3rd - hot rates to stay cool expire soon for Lake Parsippany (natural lake) or Lake Hiawatha (pool) this summer.

Parsippany has many great things, but it's hard to argue that having a huge lake replete with serene sailboats, well stocked fishing and soft sand swimming facilities isn't one of them. Or, that Lake Hiawatha Swim Club, with a large, well maintained playground, dedicated baby pool and huge adult pool with crystal clear water isn't another. Neither option has residency requirements, meaning there are no distance requirements and anyone can join as a member. There are no day passes for either, so membership must be purchased in advance.

Lake Parsippany

A nearly 170-acre lake, membership is open to the general public, without residency restrictions. Aside from swimming, boating and fishing the lake also offers clubhouse rentals, as well as a full roster of competitive sports including volleyball, horseshoes, darts and softball (not to mention swim team).

Find out what's happening in Parsippanyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The primary swimming beach, Hoffman Beach, has many shady spots thanks to trees lining the fence, as well as restrooms, ice cream and snacks.

Early Bird Pricing Special (until June 2nd) - $459 for a family; $250 for an individual; or $125 for a senior citizen (ages 65+)
Each family membership includes a minimum of 6 badges, including 2 guest badges. See their membership page for more details.

Find out what's happening in Parsippanyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Lake Hiawatha Pool

The large pool is set amid well manicured grass that provides ample places to plop your beach umbrella (and even offers a mallet to get the job done). The nearby playground provides an extra play space, and a baby pool provides a more manageable amount of water and cleanly separates the diaper-wearing crowd. Onsite, Parsippany's Best Pizza has a cafe that features items such as hot pizza, fresh sandwiches and cold beverages.

The main pool boasts areas on opposite ends that allow for free play and lounging. Diving boards of varying heights and a good-sized spiral slide provide added fun. Towards the middle are swim lanes for more serious swimmers and exercise enthusiasts. The pool has a competitive swim team, and is always looking for new members (under the age of 18, must be able to swim the length of the pool). Several live concerts are held throughout the season, as well as special raft days.

Early Bird Pricing Special (until June 3) - $488 for a family or $172 for an individual
Membership includes up to 2 adults plus 3 children. See their membership page for more details.

Patch Mayors are trusted local users who help moderate the Patch platform by promoting good local stories and flagging unwanted content. To learn more, click here.

More from Parsippany