Worthington State Forest

Columbia, New Jersey
Established 1954
6,410 acres

Worthington State Forest, nestled along the Delaware River and Kittatinny Ridge, offers scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and a variety of outdoor recreation. Visitors enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing in a tranquil natural setting, with panoramic views and access to the Appalachian Trail.

Entrance Fee

Free

Visiting with Dogs

Dogs allowed on leash; clean up required. No dogs in buildings or swimming areas. Always control and supervise pets.

Visitor Tips & Reviews

What Visitors Say

Visitors love Worthington’s scenic hiking trails, peaceful campsites, and river access, especially the hike to Sunfish Pond and vibrant fall foliage.

Tips from Visitors

  • Arrive early; parking fills quickly on weekends.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for rocky trails.
  • Carry water and snacks for hikes.
  • Check weather before visiting the river.
  • Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance.
  • Pack out all trash to protect nature.

Amenities

RestroomsParkingPicnic AreasBoat LaunchCampgroundsDrinking WaterFire RingsVisitor Center

Nearby Attractions

Explore these attractions near Worthington State Forest:

  • Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
    A vast protected area offering hiking, waterfalls, scenic drives, and river activities along the Delaware River.
    2 miles away
  • Lakota Wolf Preserve
    A wildlife preserve where visitors can observe and learn about wolves in a natural setting.
    7 miles away
  • Shawnee Mountain Ski Area
    A popular ski and snowboard resort offering winter sports and seasonal festivals.
    10 miles away

Things to Do at Worthington State Forest

HikingCampingFishingCanoeingBirdwatching

Camping at Worthington State Forest

Tent and trailer camping April–December; no hookups; reservations required; restrooms/showers available; scenic river access.

Hiking Trails

Worthington State Forest offers scenic day hikes with well-marked trails, including the popular Mount Tammany ascent for breathtaking Delaware Water Gap views. Hikers enjoy diverse terrain, shaded woodlands, waterfalls, and river vistas. Trails range from easy riverside walks to challenging climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. Wildlife sightings and peaceful natural surroundings enhance the hiking experience.

Mount Tammany Trail (Red Dot Trail)

Hard

A steep and challenging loop trail leading to panoramic views of the Delaware Water Gap from Mount Tammany's summit.

3.5 mi
2-3 hours
1,200 ft gain
Hard difficulty

Dunnfield Creek Trail

Moderate

A scenic trail following Dunnfield Creek with multiple stream crossings and lush forest surroundings.

6.5 mi
3-4 hours
900 ft gain
Moderate difficulty

Sunfish Pond via Appalachian Trail

Moderate

A popular out-and-back hike on the Appalachian Trail to a glacial lake surrounded by forest and boulders.

7.2 mi
3-4 hours
1,000 ft gain
Moderate difficulty

Douglas Trail

Easy

A short, gentle trail through hardwood forest, ideal for families and beginner hikers.

2 mi
1 hour
200 ft gain
Easy difficulty

Directions

Take I-80 west to Exit 1, then follow signs for Old Mine Road. The park entrance is just north of the Delaware Water Gap.

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can I do at Worthington State Forest?

Visitors enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. The park features the Appalachian Trail and scenic views of the Delaware Water Gap.

Are there camping facilities available?

Yes, Worthington State Forest offers both tent and group campsites. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Is swimming allowed in the Delaware River?

Swimming is not permitted in the Delaware River at Worthington State Forest due to strong currents and safety concerns.

Are pets allowed in the park?

Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

What are some popular hiking trails?

The Appalachian Trail and Mount Tammany Trail are popular for their challenging hikes and scenic overlooks. Dunnfield Creek Trail is also well-liked for its waterfalls.

Is there an entrance fee for Worthington State Forest?

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Worthington State Forest. However, camping fees apply if you stay overnight.

Location
camping and backpacking gear

Don’t Forget the Essentials

Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.

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