Worthington State Forest
Overview
Some of the most rugged terrain and splendid views of northern New Jersey are found in Worthington State Forest. The park covers 6,584 acres in Warren County. A rocky and sometimes steep trail follows Dunnfield Creek from the Delaware River to Mount Tammany, or hikers may choose to follow the trail to Sunfish Pond, one of the most popular sites in the area. Millions of years in the making, the pond was carved out by glacial forces during the last ice age and is one of fourteen rock-basin lakes between the Delaware Water Gap and the end of Kittatinny Ridge. A trail circles the pond, with many boulders and openings for resting and observation.
The park offers interpretive programs, a visitor center, extensive trails, Dunnfield Creek Natural Area, Sunfish Pond Natural Area, camping, fishing, hunting, picnicking, and boating. There are over 26 miles of trails within the park including five miles of canoe trails on the Delaware River and over seven miles of the Appalachian Trail. In the winter visitors enjoy cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. There is no entrance fee for this park. Leashed pets are allowed during the day.
Activities
Boating
There is a boat ramp available at Worthington State Forest. Boating is open seven days a week year round. Worthington is an excellent place to launch canoes and kayaks for a trip on the river. If you do not have your own boat there are many local outfitters that rent canoes and kayaks for river trips.
Bicycling
Biking is allowed on Old Mine Road.
Camping
There are 69 tent and trailer sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Three group sites, each with a capacity of 35 are also available. Each group site has picnic tables, fire rings, and access to modern toilets.
Fishing
Excellent fishing can be found along the banks of the Delaware River in Worthington State Forest. The river has abundant populations of Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Channel Catfish and the spring run of American Shad is always a highlight to the fishing season at Worthington.
Hiking
There are over 26 miles of trails within the park including five miles of canoe trails on the Delaware River and over seven miles of the Appalachian Trail. All trails within the park are hiking only. A demanding climb to the top of Mt. Tammany at 1527 ft. above sea level rewards the park visitor with a panoramic view of the Delaware Water Gap. A new interpretive trail, the Rockcores Trail, has been developed and offers some natural and historic information to the park visitor. The Appalachian Trail passes through Worthington to Stokes State Forest and High Point State Park. One of the earliest roads in the region - the Old Mine Road - skirts the forest along the Delaware River.
Hunting
Dunnfield Creek is a designated Wild Trout Stream and supports a healthy population of native brook trout, the state fish of New Jersey.
Picnicking
A small family picnic area has been added to the area and offers a peaceful, picturesque setting under a hemlock grove near the Delaware River.
Winter Sports
Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are enjoyed in the park during the winter season.
Seasonality/Weather
The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Directions
Driving
Take Route 80 west to the last exit in New Jersey (Millbrook/Flatbrookville). At bottom of ramp, turn right. Office is three miles on left.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(908) 841-9575Links
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