Action Park was a legendary water park and amusement destination located in Vernon Township, New Jersey.
The sprawling property combined extreme water slides, amusement rides, and a wild party atmosphere that made it famous across the United States.
| Property Name | Address | Region | Coordinates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Park | 1250 County Route 517 | Vernon Township, New Jersey | 41.1522° N, 74.4668° W |
| Mountain Creek Waterpark | Same site as Action Park | Vernon Township, New Jersey | 41.1522° N, 74.4668° W |
| Vernon Valley/Great Gorge Area | Encompassed multiple parks | Vernon Township, Sussex County | Approx. 41.15° N, 74.47° W |
| Adjacent Ski Resorts | Mountain Creek Ski Resort | Vernon Township, New Jersey | Shared the same mountain and road access |
Vernon Township Location Context
Action Park sat on a large parcel in Vernon Township, which is in Sussex County, New Jersey.
The site was adjacent to the Vernon Valley ski area, later rebranded as Mountain Creek Ski Resort, creating a year-season venue that leveraged the same access road and parking infrastructure.
Geographic Specifics
More precisely, the park’s main entrance was along County Route 517, placing it directly in the Vernon Valley commercial corridor.
- Close proximity to major highways including Route 23 and Route 80 for regional access.
- Nearby towns included Vernon, Mountain Lakes, and Hackettstown, supporting local traffic.
- The mountainous terrain allowed for dramatic elevation changes ideal for slides and jumps.
Park Evolution and Renaming
Originally branded as Action Park, the venue later transitioned into what is now known as Mountain Creek Waterpark under new ownership.
This shift marked a deliberate rebranding effort to distance the park from its chaotic past and emphasize a more controlled family waterpark experience.
Regional Context and Legacy
Understanding where Action Park was located helps explain its rise as a countercultural destination fueled by proximity to dense suburban populations.
The site’s evolution reflects shifting attitudes toward amusement safety, liability, and branding in the modern era.
- Pinpoint the exact township and county for logistical reference.
- Map proximity to highways and nearby population centers for travel planning.
- Track the venue’s name changes to connect past visitor experiences with current offerings.
- Recognize the relationship between ski and waterpark operations on the same mountain.
- Use the location details to explore other attractions in the Vernon Valley region.
FAQ
Reader questions
Where exactly was Action Park located in New Jersey?
Action Park was located at 1250 County Route 517 in Vernon Township, Sussex County, New Jersey, near the intersection with major regional highways.
How close was Action Park to major nearby cities?
The park was roughly 90 minutes from New York City and about 60 to 90 minutes from Philadelphia, depending on traffic, making it a popular destination for regional visitors.
Is the former Action Park site still used for recreation today?
Yes, the same location now operates as Mountain Creek Waterpark and is attached to the Mountain Creek Ski Resort, offering year-round recreation.
What towns or regions are most associated with Action Park?
Vernon Township, Mountain Lakes, and the broader Vernon Valley area are most associated with Action Park due to their direct geographic and commercial ties.