This hilly forest is a sanctuary for wildlife. Hikers and mountain bikers enjoy miles of challenging trails. Many trails offer a view of the New York City skyline. Birdwatchers are attracted to the forest for its ponds, streams and marshes that provide the perfect habitat for bird and other wildlife species. The forest borders the Ramapo Mountain Reservation, which is part of the Bergen County Park System.

Through the Carry-In/Carry-Out Program you can help us keep the parks clean and beautiful by carrying out the trash you carry in. Please bring a biodegradable bag with you when visiting to take your trash home. Thank you for your cooperation and remember to recycle.

Visit https://njparksandforests.org/sps_covid.html and follow www.facebook.com/newjerseystateparks for the most recent information on park operations — some amenities may not be available due to COVID-19.

Open daily sunrise to sunset.

Unauthorized and illegal trail features have been identified within Ramapo Mountain State Park. Ringwood State Park Staff are in the process of removing features determined to be on State Park Service Property. All trail projects must be coordinated with the Ringwood State Park Office. Unauthorized trail work is considered natural resource damage and investigated by the New Jersey State Park Police.

Attention Visitors:

The parking area and trail access point located on Barbara Drive within Town of Pompton Lakes has been closed by the property owner.  Trail users are no longer able to access the South Ridge or Cannonball Trails from this area.  Visitors are encouraged to utilize the parking area on Pool Hollow Road or either of the established parking areas on Skyline Drive.  For more information please contact the Ringwood State Park Office at (973) 962-7031.

This natural area offers spectacular views from numerous rock outcroppings and ledges and rewards those who accept the challenge of the winding hiking trails and rocky terrain that comprise most of the site. A 120-acre clearwater mountain lake provides an excellent spot for fishing and birdwatching. There is no swimming permitted in this lake. The area is open every day from 8 am to 8 pm.

Special Use Permit Application Package

A Special Use Permit is utilized to accommodate a specific activity or event being conducted over a short duration. There are two types of special use permits: Non-Commercial and Commercial and fees are based on NJ residency and Non-residents.  A completed application must be submitted to the park/forest area where the activity or event is being held at least 90 days prior to the event. If the special use or event is extremely large or complex, at least one-year’s prior notice is recommended.

An system of marked hiking and multi use trails are available for the public to explore. These trails offer visitors opportunities to hike interior woodlands and rocky vistas.

The multi use trails are suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and cross country skiing. Please obey all designated uses of the trails, posted at the trail heads and trail crossings.

Please note that trail difficulty ratings are opinion only. All trail mileages represent only the portion of the trail that goes through Ramapo Mountain State Forest, and complete trail lengths could be longer, therefore a topgraphical trail map is recommended for navigation of the trails. Maps may be purchased in the Ringwood State Park office (973-962-7031) or through the New York - New Jersey Trail Conference.

back to top

State Park Service areas open to hunting

Tree Stands and Blinds Policy

Ramapo Mountain State Forest Hunting Map

Hunting is permitted in designated areas within the park and is subject to Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.