The City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed

For outdoor enthusiasts across New Jersey, the City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed stands as a monumental natural resource, offering an expansive and pristine environment for a wide array of outdoor activities. Spanning an impressive 35,000 acres across Morris, Passaic, and Sussex Counties, this watershed is far more than just a hiking area; it's a vital source of drinking water for the City of Newark, meticulously preserved and managed, which in turn provides a unique and minimally disturbed natural haven for recreation.

This vast expanse of mountains, forests, ponds, streams, and four major reservoirs is a testament to the foresight of its original acquisition in the late 1800s. Its rugged beauty, largely unchanged for over a century, presents an unparalleled opportunity for residents to connect with nature right here in our backyard. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking challenging trails, a keen angler looking for productive waters, a hunter during designated seasons, or a nature lover eager to observe New Jersey's diverse wildlife, the Newark Watershed offers a truly immersive experience. It's a place where responsible recreation meets critical environmental protection, inviting everyone to enjoy its beauty while understanding its importance as a natural resource.

The City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed is located at 171 Echo Lake Rd, West Milford, NJ 07480, USA. This address typically refers to the main office or a central access point, as the watershed itself is a massive, 35,000-acre area spanning multiple municipalities within Morris, Passaic, and Sussex Counties.

Accessibility to the various recreational opportunities within the Watershed is well-managed to preserve its integrity as a drinking water source. While the provided address is a key point, there are multiple entry points and designated parking areas across the expansive property. For instance, reviews specifically mention "Parking for the White and Teal Diamond trails," indicating marked trailheads with accessible parking. Other significant access points for hiking include:

• Parking at Hanks East and Stephens Road, just north of CR 513, Union Valley Road in West Milford, which provides access to the Highlands Trail.

• Additional parking available near NJ Route 23 and Canistear Road.

• The boat ramp is located off Echo Lake Road (Route 23 North) next to the Watershed office.

• Another boat ramp for Canistear Reservoir is located on Canistear Road off Route 23 North.

• The Oak Ridge Reservoir ramp is off Route 23 South at Oak Ridge Road.

It is crucial to note that access for hiking, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding requires a valid permit issued by the Watershed Permits Office. These permits often come with specific rules and regulations regarding parking, trail usage, and permitted times. Newark residents typically receive a discount on these permits. Displaying the permit decal conspicuously on your vehicle is often required. This permit system helps manage visitor numbers and ensures the ongoing protection of this vital resource, while still making it widely accessible to those who plan their visit accordingly.

The City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed offers a diverse range of services, primarily focused on regulated outdoor recreation and conservation, for its permitted users. These services ensure both public enjoyment and the protection of the watershed as a vital drinking water supply:

• Permit Issuance: The Watershed Permits Office is a central service, issuing permits required for all recreational activities including hiking, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding. This system manages access and helps fund conservation efforts.

• Extensive Trail Network: Over 50 miles of designated trails are available for hiking, running, and in specific areas, horseback riding. These trails span varied terrain, offering options for all skill levels and opportunities to connect with the natural landscape.

• Boating and Fishing Access: Four large reservoirs (Echo Lake, Clinton, Canistear, and Oak Ridge Reservoirs) are open to recreational boating (electric motors only) and fishing. The watershed also offers stream fishing, notably on the Pequannock River, a premier wild brown trout stream. Fishing is permitted from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.

• Hunting Opportunities: A significant portion of the 35,000-acre area is preserved for small and big game hunting during appropriate seasons, making it a valuable resource for New Jersey's hunting community.

• Camp Watershed Summer Program: For younger residents, Camp Watershed offers a traditional co-ed summer program for children aged 7-13, focusing on sports, fitness, outdoor adventures, and cultural/educational opportunities for Newark residents.

• Wildlife Observation and Photography: The protected nature of the watershed ensures a rich biodiversity, making it an excellent location for bird-watching and wildlife photography. Species like bears, foxes, deer, and various birds thrive here.

• Educational Information: Through partnerships with organizations like the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, guides and maps are often available, providing crucial information about trails, regulations, and the watershed's ecological significance.

These services, while requiring permits, collectively provide a comprehensive outdoor experience while prioritizing the environmental integrity of this critical water source.

The City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional and vital natural area in New Jersey:

• Vast Protected Wilderness: Encompassing 35,000 acres, it is one of the largest continuous tracts of preserved land in the New Jersey Highlands. This extensive size minimizes human disturbance, safeguarding biodiversity and offering a genuine wilderness experience that is increasingly rare in the region.

• Drinking Water Source: Its primary and most crucial feature is its role as the source of drinking water for the City of Newark. This designation ensures strict environmental protection, leading to remarkably clean reservoirs and a healthy ecosystem that benefits all forms of life, including humans who consume the water and recreate within its bounds.

• Four Major Reservoirs: The watershed is defined by its impressive network of four large reservoirs—Echo Lake, Clinton, Canistear, and Oak Ridge Reservoirs. These provide not only stunning scenic views but also serve as key areas for fishing and non-motorized boating, each boasting unique characteristics and fish populations, including trophy-sized muskies and walleyes.

• Pequannock River Wild Trout Stream: The approximately 5.9-mile stretch of the Pequannock River that flows through the property is managed as a Wild Brown Trout Enhancement water, making it one of New Jersey's premier wild brown trout streams and a significant draw for anglers seeking a challenging and rewarding experience.

• Diverse Topography and Scenery: The landscape boasts stunning mountainous terrain, glacial rock ledges, and towering hardwood forests. This varied topography creates diverse habitats and offers picturesque views, including panoramic vistas from various points along the trails.

• Rich Biodiversity: Due to its protected status, the watershed is a sanctuary for native New Jersey wildlife, including black bears, foxes, deer, numerous bird species, and diverse fish populations, making it an excellent destination for wildlife observation and nature photography.

• Connectivity to Highlands Trail: Sections of the long-distance Highlands Trail traverse the watershed, providing access to a broader network of regional trails and connecting the area to other significant natural preserves in New Jersey and New York.

• Historical Preservation: The land has remained largely unchanged for over a century, offering a glimpse into the region's natural history and the efforts of early conservation and reforestation by community groups and the Civilian Conservation Corps.

These combined features make the City of Newark Watershed a remarkable and invaluable asset for both environmental conservation and outdoor recreation in New Jersey.

The City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed operates primarily as a protected natural resource and a recreational area under specific regulations, rather than a commercial entity offering typical "promotions" or "special offers." Its inherent "promotion" is the access it grants to 35,000 acres of pristine New Jersey wilderness.

However, there are specific "offers" in terms of permit pricing and programs:

• Permit Discounts for Newark Residents: A notable offer is the discounted rate for recreational permits for residents of the City of Newark. For example, non-Newark residents pay $19.00 for a hiking permit, while Newark residents pay $13.00, and Newark seniors pay $9.00. Similarly, boating and fishing fees also have discounted rates for Newark residents, encouraging local engagement with their vital water source.

• Discounts for Disabled Veterans: The Watershed offers a 15% or $5 discount on all permits for disabled veterans, requiring a VA card listing disability status. This is a commendable "special offer" to honor service members.

• Organized Group Hike Permits: For groups looking to explore the trails together, permits for organized group hikes are available. While a minimal fee may be applied at the discretion of the Watershed permit office, this is a special arrangement that facilitates larger group activities.

• Camp Watershed for Newark Youth: The Camp Watershed summer program is a specific "offer" targeted at children aged 7-13 from Newark, providing a comprehensive and exciting summer experience with a focus on sports, fitness, outdoor adventures, and cultural opportunities.

It is important to remember that all recreational activities within the watershed, including hiking, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding, require a valid permit. Visitors should consult the official City of Newark website or contact the Watershed Permits Office directly for the most current pricing, specific regulations, and any seasonal information regarding these offerings. This ensures that visitors can fully and responsibly enjoy the unique opportunities available.

For comprehensive information and to obtain necessary permits for accessing the City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed, the primary points of contact are through the City of Newark's relevant departments.

• Main Address: 171 Echo Lake Rd, West Milford, NJ 07480, USA (This address is often associated with the Watershed's office or a central access point.)

• Watershed Permits Office Phone: (973) 697-1724 (This number is specifically listed for obtaining permits and details on restrictions for activities like hiking within the Newark Watershed property.)

• Camp Watershed Phone: (973) 697-9018 (This number is associated with inquiries regarding the Camp Watershed summer program for youth.)

• City of Newark Website: www.newarknj.gov/card/recreational-permit (This specific link provides information on obtaining recreational permits. The broader newarknj.gov website also offers details on the Parks and Recreation Department and related programs.)

• New York-New Jersey Trail Conference: The NY-NJ Trail Conference also publishes guides and maps (e.g., "The Newark Watershed Guide to Trails") and provides information on sections of the Highlands Trail that traverse the watershed. Their website (nynjtc.org) can be a valuable complementary resource for trail-specific details.

Before visiting, especially for activities requiring permits or during specific hunting seasons, it is highly recommended to contact the Watershed Permits Office or visit the official City of Newark website to ensure you have the most up-to-date information on rules, fees, and operational hours.

The City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed is an absolutely ideal destination for locals in New Jersey, offering a remarkable combination of expansive natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. Its suitability for residents stems from several key factors that cater to a wide range of outdoor interests and needs.

Firstly, its sheer scale—35,000 acres—means that even with its popularity, the watershed offers ample space for solitude and immersion in nature. Unlike smaller, often crowded parks, the Newark Watershed provides a genuine sense of wilderness, allowing hikers, anglers, and wildlife observers to truly escape the urban bustle. The extensive trail network, from the challenging sections of the Highlands Trail to more accessible routes, ensures there's an adventure suitable for every fitness level and experience, making it a perfect spot for both seasoned trekkers and families looking for a scenic stroll.

Secondly, the multi-faceted recreational offerings extend far beyond just hiking. The presence of four pristine reservoirs, open for fishing and electric-motor boating, offers a unique aquatic playground. Anglers will particularly appreciate the designated wild trout streams, a rare and valuable resource in our state. The opportunity for hunting during specific seasons further broadens its appeal, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination.

Moreover, the fact that this vast area is meticulously managed as a drinking water source provides a significant benefit to residents: exceptionally clean and well-preserved natural habitats. This commitment to environmental protection ensures that the beauty and biodiversity of the watershed will remain for future generations, offering a sustainable resource for recreation and appreciation. The discounted permit fees for Newark residents are a testament to the city's commitment to providing access to this vital asset to its taxpayers. For any New Jersey local seeking a true escape into nature, a challenging outdoor adventure, or a serene spot for wildlife observation, the Newark Watershed offers an unparalleled and invaluable experience right in their backyard.

The City of Newark Watershed Recreation & Camp Watershed

171 Echo Lake Rd, West Milford, NJ 07480, USA