Long Pond Ironworks State Park wilderness guide
State Park · NJ

Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Long Pond Ironworks State Park offers a unique blend of rich history and vibrant outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the remnants of an old ironworks town amid lush forestry and scenic views.

State Park1,5003+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Long Pond Ironworks State Park offers a unique blend of rich history and vibrant outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the remnants of an old ironworks town amid lush forestry and scenic views.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Long Pond Ironworks State Park is located in northern New Jersey, situated within the Highlands region known for its rugged terrain and forested landscapes. This state park encompasses the historic Long Pond Ironworks, established in 1766, which was a significant iron production site into the late 19th century. The park features a variety of historical structures, including furnaces, remains of old buildings, and exhibits that tell the story of this once-thriving industrial hub. The park's geography is dominated by wooded areas along the Wanaque River and surrounding valleys, offering picturesque views and a habitat for diverse wildlife, including deer and numerous bird species. Recreation opportunities abound with miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. Visitors can also enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. The park's archaeological and historic significance, combined with its natural beauty, draws history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Historical Ironworks Site✦ Scenic Wanaque River Views✦ Birdwatching Opportunities✦ Winter Cross-Country Skiing
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Long Pond Ironworks State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Long Pond Ironworks State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Long Pond Ironworks State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Long Pond Ironworks State Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Long Pond Ironworks State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Long Pond Ironworks State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees required for entry, donations encouraged at visitors center.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Shepherd Lake Recreation Area

Camping available by the lake with facilities; popular during summer months.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ringwood, New Jersey
⌖ 3.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ringwood, New Jersey

Ringwood, New Jersey, offers a perfect mix of rugged hiking, paddling, and historic exploration in a lovely highlands setting. With scenic parks featuring waterfalls, forest trails, and peaceful lakes, it’s ideal for outdoor lovers year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Kingwood, New Jersey
⌖ 3.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kingwood, New Jersey

Kingwood, NJ is a peaceful rural town offering hiking, biking, paddling, and cross-country skiing in natural settings along the Delaware River and local parks. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking quiet trails and water adventures.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
West Milford, New Jersey
⌖ 3.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

West Milford, New Jersey

West Milford, NJ, offers outdoor enthusiasts a rugged playground of forests, lakes, and trails just an hour from NYC. Hike scenic ridges, paddle quiet lakes, and camp under starlit skies in this underrated Highlands retreat.

Spring through Fall for warm-weather activities; Winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Wanaque, New Jersey
⌖ 5.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wanaque, New Jersey

Wanaque, NJ presents a serene escape filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and bird watching. Nestled among beautiful reservoirs and forests, it's a nature lover's haven.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Tuxedo Park, New York
⌖ 6.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tuxedo Park, New York

Tuxedo Park offers quiet lakeside hiking, mountain biking, and paddling in the scenic foothills of the Ramapo Mountains. With Sterling Forest State Park nearby, it’s a peaceful year-round outdoor escape just outside New York City.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Suffern, New York
⌖ 7.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Suffern, New York

Suffern, NY is a gateway to the Hudson Valley's outdoor adventures, featuring hiking and mountain biking in rambling forests, paddling on scenic rivers, and cross-country skiing nearby. Its historic charm and proximity to large parks make it a perfect basecamp.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Party 100 Feet Up: Sky Trails Adventure Party in West Nyack
ADVEXPEDITION
West Nyack, New York
ZiplineADV Bookable

Party 100 Feet Up: Sky Trails Adventure Party in West Nyack

A concise field guide to the two-hour private party package at Sky Trails—America’s tallest indoor ropes course—covering what's included, safety basics, and planning essentials.

ZiplinePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip