Highlights
Things To Do: Outdoor Spaces
New Jersey Botanical Garden
Located within Ringwood State Park, the gardens surround Skylands Manor, a reproduction of a 400-year-old English mansion. Manor tours, concerts and other events are frequently scheduled. Open daily 8 a.m.-8 p.m. more...
Norvin Green State Forest
There are fabulous walking trails and no public facilities in this undisturbed forest. Maps for all trails can be bought at the Weis Ecology Center, located next to the Norvin Green State Forest parking lot. more...
Ringwood State Park
A favorite of outdoors buffs, this 4,044-acre park contains a National Historic Landmark, the Ringwood Manor House, featuring Hudson River School paintings and fine furnishings. The New Jersey State Botanical Gardens are within the park. Shepherd Lake has a bathing beach and lures anglers. There are campsites and cabins for rent. Park opens daily at 8:15 a.m. Swimming permitted 10 a.m.-6 p.m. when lifeguard is on duty. more...
Wawayanda State Park
This beautiful 13,000-acre park in Passaic County is home to numerous wildlife species, including a large population of black bear. The park contains 40 miles of trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. The park's centerpiece is Lake Wawayanda, a picturesque lake surrounded by pine trees that offers visitors swimming, boating and bass fishing. The most remarkable geographic feature is a rare inland Atlantic white cedar swamp. Camp sites are available. Park opens daily at 8:15 a.m. Swimming is permitted only when lifeguards are on duty, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. more...
Weis Ecology Center
Located next to the parking lot at the start of the Norvin Green State Forest walk, this private, nonprofit environmental education center is geared mainly for families or scout troops. It offers a wide variety of nature programs. Campsites and cabins are available for rent. The visitor center is open Wed.-Sun. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Walkers may use the picnic facilities and bathrooms free of charge. more...
