The quiet charm of Wawayanda appeals to hikers, campers, swimmers and boaters. Forested hills surround Lake Wawayanda creating a restful backdrop for canoeists, boaters and fisherman, while steep mountains challenge casual as well as serious hikers. A twenty-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail runs through the park, while the top of Wawayanda Mountain offers sensational views. More than forty miles of trails are marked in the park.   Bearfort Mountain Natural Area (1,325 acres) This area encompasses several forest communities including swamp hardwood, hemlock-mixed hardwood and chestnut oak forest communities. This is a key location for observing the state endangered red-shouldered hawk, with a 360-degree view of the surrounding northern highlands. Wawayanda Hemlock Ravine Natural Area (399 acres) The topography of this ravine is one of high relief with 300-foot increases in elevation from Doublekill Creek to surrounding hills. The hemlock-mixed hardwood forest provides a cool shady break for hikers on the Appalachian Trail, which is located along the western boundary of the natural area. Wawayanda Swamp Natural Area (2167 acres) This natural area features an Atlantic white cedar swamp, mixed oak-hardwood forest and a glacially formed spring-fed lake and is habitat for the red-shouldered hawk, barred owl and great blue heron. Visitors may choose from several trails, including a scenic walk around Laurel Pond.   Trails Wawayanda State Park consists of over 60 miles of well marked trails. The trails are not ADA accessible. Camping For forms and information on booking a campsite visit our: reservations page Group Campsites: Three sites with sanitary facilities; total capacity: 150. Water is not available at campsites; it must be carried from the maintenance building. Open April 1 through October 31. $1 per person per night, based on site capacity. Swimming There is swimming at Lake Wawayanda at a guarded beach Memorial Day through Labor Day with a restroom facility ajacent to the beach.

To the south, the Appalachian Trail follows a rocky ridge which offers many scenic views of the valleys and mountains surrounding the area. To the north, the trail drops off the ridge through hemlock gorges into former agricultural fields with a view of the surrounding countryside and the High Point Monument in the distance.

The Dryden Kuser Natural Area includes a distinctive bog, locally called the Cedar Swamp. The Cedar Swamp Trail makes a one and a half mile loop around the bog. The trail guide described the spring-summer vegetation and other features of the bog and the surrounding area. The descriptions in the guide correspond to numbered posts on the trail. As you enjoy the natural beauty of this area, please remember to leave it undisturbed for future visitors.

Winter months find cross-country skiers on the 15 km of groomed trails in the park. Half of the trails are covered by artificial snow. Cross-country skis and other winter sports equipment are available for rent. A blazing fire, hot soup and other hearty food greet visitors at the center on Lake Marcia. For information, call (973) 702-1222.
 

For forms and information on booking a campsite visit our: reservations page

These fees are in effect as of September 6, 2005

Campsites: 50 tent sites (no trailers) along Sawmill Lake with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets are within walking distance. Open April 1 through October 31. $20 per night.

Group campsites: Two group campsites, accommodate 25 and 35 people each. Drinking water, pit toilets. Open May 15 through October 15. $1 per person per night, based on site capacity.

Cabins: Two cabins each with furnished living room with fireplace; three bedrooms -one room with double bed, two rooms with twin beds; kitchen with hot and cold running water, electric stove, refrigerator; bathroom with shower, toilet, and sink. Electricity. Cabins are located on eastern shore of Steenykill Lake. Each accommodates six people. With prior permission from the superintendent, two additional people may be accommodated. Cabins are open from May 15 to October 15. $65 per night, $455 per week.

Group cabin: Living room with woodstove, full kitchen, two bunkrooms with double bunks, bathrooms, showers. Accommodates up to 28 people. Open May 15 through October 15. $155 per night; Two-night minimum.

Campground Map (Low resolution for viewing purposes)
Campground Map (High resolution for printing purposes) File
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Several picnic areas with table and grills are located throughout the park. For larger groups, we also offer three reservable picnic shelters that can accomodate up to 75 people each. In addition, group picnic Shelter #1 has playground equipment and Shelter #2 offers playfields and playground equipment. These areas may be reserved for a fee:

These fees are in effect as of September 6, 2005

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• High Point Cross Country Ski Center
• Sussex County Weather Network
• Appalachian Trail Conference
• New York - New Jersey Trail Conference
• NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife (information regarding fishing and hunting)