Some of the most rugged terrain and splendid views of northern New Jersey are found in Worthington State Forest. 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.
Facilities & Activities:
Interpretive Programs
Visitors center
Trails
Dunnfield Creek Natural Area
Sunfish Pond Natural Area
Camping
Fishing
Hunting
Picnicking
Boating/canoeing: electric motors, gas motors, trailer launch, cartop launch
Winter sports:
cross-country skiing, snowmobiling
Trails:
Appalachian Trail
Hiking
Biking on Old Mine Road
Trails
There are over 26 miles of trails within the park including 5 miles of canoe trails on the Delaware River and over 7 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.
Appalachian Trail
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. The road was used for transporting copper and slate from the mines and quarries in the area, and is believed to have originally been a well-defined Indian trail. The trail was also used by fur traders and Dutch settlers.
Dunnfield Creek Natural Area (1,085 acres)
Hikers, fishermen, bird watchers and other naturalists can follow this moderate trail through a mature hemlock and mixed hardwood ravine along Dunnfield Creek. This area is designated a Wild Trout Stream and supports a healthy population of native brook trout, the state fish of New Jersey.
Sunfish Pond Natural Area (258 acres)
This impressive glacial lake, surrounded by a chestnut oak forest is reached by a steep and rocky climb along the Appalachian Trail. No swimming or camping is permitted at this area, however, 1/4 mile south of the pond along the Appalachian Trail is a backpacking wilderness camping area. This camping area is monitored by a caretaker who teaches Leave No Trace techniques, precautions on Living in Bear Country and enforces the No Fire regulation.
Camping
Campsites: 69 tent and trailer sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Open April 1 through December 31. Campsites 1-77 have modern toilets and showers.
Group campsites: Three group sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and modern toilets. Open April 1 to December 31. Each campsite accommodates up to 35 people.
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.
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. Stop at the Forest Office for more information about the river.
Hunting
Abundant populations of deer, turkey and small game offer many hunting opportunities for the public. Hunting is subject to New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
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. Limited space is available.
