Skyland Association

For those in New Jersey seeking a magnificent blend of horticultural artistry, historical grandeur, and natural tranquility, the New Jersey State Botanical Garden, often referred to simply as "Skylands" or supported by the Skyland Association, is an absolute gem. Located within Ringwood State Park in Ringwood, NJ, this sprawling 96-acre botanical wonderland offers an unparalleled escape into a world of cultivated beauty and untamed wilderness. It's a place where diverse plant collections thrive, historic architecture captivates, and serene landscapes invite quiet contemplation or active exploration.

The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands is a unique destination for locals, serving as a living museum of plant life from around the globe, meticulously curated and maintained. More than just a collection of flowers, it's a testament to landscape design, featuring a variety of themed gardens, woodlands, and even a historic manor house that adds a rich cultural layer to the natural experience. As one visitor aptly put it, "Skylands is one of those best kept secrets. It's not overly crowded or busy. There is a lovely array of flowers to enjoy and it feels like something is always blooming." This continuous bloom cycle ensures that every visit, regardless of the season, offers new discoveries and delights.

Managed in part by the dedicated volunteer efforts of the Skyland Association, this botanical garden is a testament to community involvement and the preservation of natural heritage. It's a place where you can wander through formal gardens designed with precision and beauty, or meander along gentle paths that wind through more naturalized woodlands, allowing for a truly immersive experience in nature. Whether you're a seasoned gardener looking for inspiration, a nature photographer seeking the perfect shot, or a family searching for an engaging outdoor adventure, the New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands provides an enriching experience for all.

From the vibrant colors of its many perennial and annual beds to the stately presence of its ancient trees and the peaceful atmosphere of its ponds, the garden is a dynamic environment that constantly evolves. It’s a proud feature of New Jersey’s natural landscape, offering a serene and educational outing right here in Passaic County. This article will delve into the specifics of what makes Skyland Association and the New Jersey State Botanical Garden such a suitable and appealing destination for New Jersey residents.

The New Jersey State Botanical Garden, maintained by the Skyland Association, is prominently located at 5 Morris Rd, Ringwood, NJ 07456, USA. This address places it squarely within the scenic Ringwood State Park, a vast natural preserve in the Ramapo Mountains of Passaic County, Northern New Jersey. Its position within a larger state park means it benefits from robust infrastructure and signage, making it relatively easy to find for visitors coming from various parts of the state.

Access to the botanical garden is generally via Morris Road, which is well-connected to major roadways in the region, including Route 208 and Route 17 from New York. For those traveling by car, there are several parking lots available within the Skyland Association grounds. Parking Lot A is often recommended as it is closest to the main entrance and Visitor Center, providing convenient access to the formal gardens. If Lot A is full, visitors can utilize Lot B, situated near the lilac garden, or Lot C, which is a bit further but offers a more adventurous walk through the botanical garden grounds. Signage within the park guides visitors to these parking areas and the various garden sections.

While direct public transportation to the precise garden entrance might be limited, the overall accessibility of Ringwood State Park by car makes it a feasible day trip for most New Jersey residents. The grounds themselves are designed with varying levels of accessibility, with many primary paths and areas near the Carriage House Visitor Center being ADA accessible, ensuring that a wide range of visitors can enjoy the beauty of the gardens. Whether you're coming from Bergen County, Essex County, or even further south in New Jersey, the drive to Ringwood offers picturesque scenery, setting the tone for a relaxing and immersive visit to the botanical garden.

The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, supported by the Skyland Association, offers a wide array of services and experiences beyond just viewing plants. These offerings enhance the visitor experience and contribute to the garden's role as a community resource.

• Guided Garden Tours: Knowledgeable volunteers often provide guided tours of the extensive gardens, offering insights into plant collections, design principles, and the history of the estate. These tours are typically offered on select days, particularly Sundays from May to October, and provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the garden.
• Skylands Manor Tours: The historic 44-room Tudor Revival Skylands Manor, located within the botanical garden, is open for guided tours on select Sundays. These tours allow visitors to explore the ground floor of the mansion and learn about its architectural significance and the lives of its former residents.
• Educational Programs and Workshops: The Skyland Association frequently hosts educational programs, lectures, and workshops related to horticulture, gardening techniques, conservation, and local ecology. These programs cater to various age groups and skill levels, promoting learning and engagement with the natural world.
• Children's Programs: Special events and programs designed specifically for children are often available, aiming to introduce younger visitors to the wonders of nature, plants, and environmental stewardship in an engaging and interactive way.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The Skyland Association relies heavily on a dedicated team of volunteers for garden maintenance, restoration projects, visitor services, and educational programs. Locals can contribute their time and skills, fostering a sense of community ownership and direct involvement in the garden's preservation.
• Gift Shop: A gift shop is typically located at the Carriage House Visitor Center, offering a selection of garden-themed merchandise, books, local crafts, and sometimes even plants, providing visitors with mementos of their visit.
• Event Venue Rentals: Skylands Manor and portions of the botanical garden grounds can be rented for private events, such as weddings, corporate functions, and other special occasions, providing a stunning backdrop for memorable gatherings.
• Photography Permits: For professional photography sessions, such as engagement or wedding photos, specific permits may be required to utilize the gardens and manor as a backdrop, ensuring proper management and preservation of the site.

The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, overseen by the Skyland Association, is renowned for its diverse features and captivating highlights that make it a truly special destination in New Jersey.

• Skylands Manor: The centerpiece of the garden is the magnificent 44-room Tudor Revival mansion, built in the 1920s. This architectural marvel, with its stone and half-timbered facade, provides a stunning backdrop to the gardens and adds a significant historical dimension to the visit.
• Extensive Themed Gardens: The 96 acres of cultivated gardens are home to a remarkable variety of specialized areas, each designed with unique plants and aesthetics. Highlights include:
  • The Lilac Garden: Featuring over one hundred varieties and two hundred lilac plants, particularly stunning in late April and early May.
  • Crabapple Vista: An impressive allée of 166 crabapple trees, creating a spectacular display when in bloom.
  • Perennial Garden: An explosion of color and fragrance stretching from spring through autumn, showcasing a profusion of hardy perennials.
  • Annual Garden: A formal layout with seasonal bedding flowers that change throughout the year, often featuring a historic 16th-century marble wellhead.
  • Winter Garden: Designed to offer greenery and interest even in the colder months, featuring evergreens and unique tree specimens like New Jersey's largest Jeffery pine.
  • Azalea Garden: Home to spring-blooming rhododendrons, azaleas, and daffodils, often flanking a reflecting pool.
  • Tree Peony Terrace: Showcasing flowering shrubs and various types of peonies.
  • Swan Pond and Other Water Features: Beautiful ponds and reflecting pools add tranquility and attract local wildlife, such as the frogs mentioned in visitor reviews.
• Diverse Plant Collections: The garden boasts approximately 5,000 species and varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers, many collected from around the world by previous owner Clarence McKenzie Lewis, making it one of the finest collections in the state.
• Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails: Beyond the formal gardens, the surrounding Ringwood State Park offers extensive trails for hiking, mountain biking, and even cross-country skiing in winter. These trails allow visitors to explore the 1,000 acres of woodlands and enjoy panoramic views of the Ramapo Mountains.
• Wildlife and Birdwatching: The diverse habitats within the botanical garden and surrounding park attract a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and nature observation.
• Historical Significance: The entire Skylands estate is listed on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places, recognizing its significance in architecture and landscape architecture.

While the New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, supported by the Skyland Association, doesn't typically run commercial "sales" or discount promotions like a retail business, there are several ways locals can maximize their experience and value when visiting this cherished New Jersey landmark.

• Free Garden Admission: The botanical garden itself offers free admission year-round. This means you can visit and explore the vast majority of the gardens at no cost, making it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly outdoor activity for individuals and families in New Jersey.
• Weekend Parking Fees: During peak season (typically Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day), a modest parking fee is charged to enter Ringwood State Park, which grants access to the botanical garden. For New Jersey residents, this fee is typically $5 on weekdays and $10 on weekends and holidays. This small fee contributes to the park's upkeep and operation. Outside of this peak season, parking is often free.
• Guided Tour Inclusions: Many of the guided garden tours offered by the Skyland Association volunteers are free of charge, especially the regular Sunday tours from May to October. This provides immense value, allowing visitors to learn from experts without an additional cost.
• Membership Benefits: Becoming a member of the NJBG/Skylands Association offers a range of benefits that act as ongoing "special offers." These can include free guest passes for guided Manor House tours, discounts in the gift shop, discounts on trips and workshops, advance notice of educational and cultural events, and even reciprocal admission or benefits at over 300 other gardens and arboreta across the U.S. Membership fees directly support the garden's preservation and development.
• Special Event Pricing: While general garden admission is free, some special events, such as the annual plant sales, holiday open houses, or specific lectures, may have an admission fee or require tickets. However, these events often provide unique experiences or opportunities to purchase rare plants, offering value beyond just standard admission.
• Volunteer Recognition: For those who volunteer their time with the Skyland Association, there are often informal benefits, such as a deeper connection to the garden, behind-the-scenes access, and the satisfaction of contributing to a beautiful community asset.

It is always advisable for New Jersey locals to check the official New Jersey State Botanical Garden website (njbg.org) or contact the Skyland Association directly for the most current information on parking fees, tour schedules, event listings, and membership benefits.

To connect with the Skyland Association and the New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, please use the following contact details:

Address: 5 Morris Rd, Ringwood, NJ 07456, USA

Phone: (973) 962-9534

Mobile Phone: +1 973-962-9534 (This appears to be the same main phone number as provided)

Website: For the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on garden hours, events, tours, membership, and volunteer opportunities, it is highly recommended to visit their official website, which is typically found under the New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands.

You can also find information about the broader Ringwood State Park by contacting the Ringwood State Park office at (973) 962-2240 or visiting the NJ State Park Service website.

For residents across New Jersey, the New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, passionately supported by the Skyland Association, is more than just a local attraction; it is a true community asset and an ideal destination for countless reasons. Its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse recreational offerings makes it uniquely suitable for a wide array of local interests.

Firstly, its accessibility and affordability are paramount. With free admission to the gardens year-round (aside from modest peak-season parking fees), it provides an accessible escape for families, individuals, and groups looking to enjoy the outdoors without a significant financial burden. This ensures that the wonders of horticulture and natural beauty are available to everyone in the New Jersey community.

Secondly, the sheer diversity of experiences available caters to all ages and preferences. Whether you're a keen gardener seeking inspiration from the meticulously designed themed gardens, a nature enthusiast eager to explore miles of hiking trails within Ringwood State Park, or a history buff interested in touring the grand Skylands Manor, there's something to engage every visitor. Parents can appreciate the children's programs and the open spaces for kids to explore, while adults can find peace and tranquility amidst the lush landscapes. The ever-changing blooms ensure that every visit offers new visual delights, encouraging repeat visits throughout the seasons.

Furthermore, the Skyland Association's dedication to maintaining and enhancing the gardens through volunteer efforts fosters a strong sense of community involvement. Locals have the opportunity to contribute directly to the preservation of this historical and natural treasure, building connections and pride in their shared environment. This collaborative spirit ensures the garden remains a vibrant and evolving space for future generations.

In essence, the New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands is a living testament to New Jersey's "Garden State" moniker. It offers a unique combination of educational opportunities, serene beauty, and active recreation, all within a convenient drive for many New Jersey residents. It’s a place where you can unwind, learn, connect with nature, and appreciate the rich heritage of our state. For anyone looking to enrich their lives through engagement with nature and history, a visit to this remarkable botanical garden is an absolute must.

Skyland Association

5 Morris Rd, Ringwood, NJ 07456, USA