Ramapo Valley County Reservation Park is Bergen County’s largest park. It is so big that it spills over into Passaic County and Upstate New York.
There are over 4,000 acres to explore in this fabulous nature reserve. You can have so much fun here because of all the options available to you:
- Bird Watching
- Canoeing
- Cross County Skiing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Kayaking
Work was completed in 2016 to totally reconfigure and improve the park’s hiking trail system. 1.2 miles of new trails were added and the other 6 miles re-blazed. The result is a wonderful loop system of hiking trails that everyone from beginners on up can enjoy. Take a look at the trail map to plan your hike.
The park is dog friendly so you can bring Fido. As a result you can have a wonderful hike with your dog. Ramapo Valley is possibly the best dog hiking experience in Bergen County.
I don’t know much about canoeing and kayaking but I found a great article about paddling a canoe or kayak on the Ra
mapo River. There is a dock for boaters in the park so it’s easy to access the river. Because of this the Reserve is a favorite spot.
Freshwater fishing is available on the Ramapo River, in the reservoir and at Scarlet Oak Pond. You must have a NJ fishing license to fish.
Ramapo Valley Reserve is no more than a 40 minute drive from anywhere in Bergen County. As a result you have a wonderful camping experience not far from home. There are several campsites around Scarlet Oak Pond. All you need is a permit, a tent, yourself and your family. Campers come back every year because it’s such a nice experience.
During the winter you’ll find great cross country skiing and there is always gorgeous views year round. Because it’s winter we also have to remember this is weather permitting.
The park is a gorg
eous nature preserve. There is an amazing variety of birds which draws birders all throughout the year. The natural beauty of this park is stunning. There is everything from a waterfall to beautiful wild flowers.
For camping and fishing permit information and all other questions, call Darlington County Park at 201-327-3500. If you need more help, just call me at 201-741-8490.
