Meet Mahwah's Parks: Ramapo Reservation

Looking to take advantage of trails and parks this summer season? This week at Patch, we are offering a guide to some of the best parks and trails in Mahwah. Add your comments and favorite ways to enjoy today's park in the comments section.

History

Approximately 3313 acres long, the Ramapo Reservation is one of Bergen County’s biggest parks. The reservation borders both Ringwood State Park and the Ramapo Mountain State Forest. Despite urbanization, most of the reservation has been left in its natural state. Visitors can enjoy hiking amongst the reservations hills and valleys as well as canoeing and fishing on the Ramapo River and other ponds in the area.

The reservation is located on Ramapo Valley Road (right before Ramapo College), and two miles south of NJ 17 in Mahwah.

Visitors also may be lucky to catch the Giants football players jogging up the reservoir during training season.

Hike

The reservation is great for hiking, as it offers ten marked trails, according to the New York New Jersey Trail Conference Website. Hikers seeking a challenge can try hiking near Scarlet Oak Pond and The Macmillan Reservoir.

Scarlet Oak Pond is a very popular area in the reservation, as it is frequented by dog walkers and hikers alike. The pond once served as a former gravel quarry. Not too far away is the Macmillan Reservoir, which once supplied the Crocker Mansion. 

Individual trails range from 0.3 to 6.5 miles, and some of the reservation’s trails connect with those in Ringwood State park, Ramapo Mountain State Forest, and Camp Glen Gray.

The areas towards the parking lot are usually used for those with strollers. Dogs are welcome on the trails; however, they must be leashed.

Camping

For parties interested in camping, tent camping is only allowed by permit. For more information please call Darlington (201-327-3500) for camping rules and regulations.

Wildlife

The reservation is a hotspot for birdwatchers as it contains more than 200 species of birds, according to Ramapo College’s website of Community Resources. Plant lovers will enjoy the sights of flowering dogwood, mountain laurel, and pink azalea.

Permit pass

Fishing is permitted with a valid NJ fishing license.

Fees

There are no fees.

More info

For more information, individuals can contact the Bergen County Department of Parks at 201-336-7275, or visit its website.