Lord Stirling Park - Basking Ridge, NJ
Lord Stirling Park – Dog-Friendly Hiking & Nature in Basking Ridge, NJ
If you’re searching for a dog park in Basking Ridge, New Jersey with beautiful scenery and a pet-friendly atmosphere, Lord Stirling Park is a wonderful destination. Nestled within the Great Swamp, this park features well-maintained, mostly flat trails and scenic boardwalks perfect for on-leash walks and hikes with your furry friend. With public restrooms, onsite parking, and a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, the park is accommodating for both two- and four-legged visitors.
Families and dog owners alike love Lord Stirling Park for its magical feel—complete with fairy and herb gardens, benches near the nature center, and educational displays. Its kid-friendly hikes and good signage make it a fun place for all ages to explore (though some visitors note that trail markings can be confusing further out). Remember to bring bug spray, especially in warmer months, and enjoy bird watching or a casual walk with your pet.
FAQ
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are public restrooms and clean facilities at the nature center.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, both the entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park is good for kids and offers kid-friendly hikes and gardens.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are benches, especially close to the nature center along the trails.
- Is there parking available onsite? Yes, plenty of onsite parking is provided.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park boasts many hiking and walking trails, some on boardwalks, perfect for dog-friendly hiking.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, visitors frequently note the park is well-maintained and cared for by staff.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, bug spray is recommended, as some visitors note bugs can be present—especially in warmer weather.
Reviews
Fun little place to learn and enjoy a easier type hike
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed trails, environment and atmosphere here, however, we did find it difficult to find our way around as trails were not clearly marked so it was a little confusing. Another family said the same thing as we were at one point at the same spot looking to find our way to the parking lot, which, we finally did find but it was a little challenging. We all had our GPS with us too.
This place is worth returning to and I’d highly recommend it.
The educational center was small but very nice, a clean restroom as well as nice art work display from a school in the area.
If you looking for a nice place to spend the day I’d suggest checking it out.
Very nice trail for hiking or walking. Mostly flat. Well-maintained paths. Just make sure to use tons of bug spray, even on your face (the only area I left uncovered, and I left with 3 bites on my face).
This is a great park for hiking and walking. It is part of the Great Swamp. A lot of the trails are on boardwalks. It is a good place for bird watching. The trails are all flat, and there are many maps scattered around the park. It is a great place to take kids
Such a special and magical place! There are many trail crossings yet each one is marked and extremely well. The trails closer to the nature center have more benches. The center was closing up when I finished my hike and they were very gracious and welcoming. You can tell the facility and staff are very well loved and cared for. There are fairy and herb gardens galore! Great place for imaginations to run wild—children and adults alike. Can’t wait to come back in the warmer months.