Ramapo Lake Trailhead - Oakland, NJ
Ramapo Lake Trailhead Dog-Friendly Park in Oakland, New Jersey
Located in scenic Oakland, New Jersey, Ramapo Lake Trailhead is a popular spot for dog owners looking for pet-friendly hiking in Northern NJ. The well-marked trails wind through beautiful, shady woodlands and offer gentle climbs to rewarding views around Ramapo Lake. With mostly flat to easy-moderate terrain—though rocky in some stretches—this trail is great for leisurely dog walks, jogs, and even fishing or sightseeing by the lake.
Dog owners will appreciate the dog-friendly atmosphere here, though dogs are officially required to be on leash. Ample shade covers most of the trails, and there’s a portable restroom at the parking lot for your convenience. Parking can fill up fast on weekends and holidays, so arriving early or later in the afternoon is recommended. Bring hiking boots for rocky or sometimes muddy sections and bug spray for the buggy areas in summer. Ramapo Lake Trailhead is a favorite destination for anyone searching for dog-friendly trails in Bergen County, New Jersey!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the park’s leash requirements?
Dogs are supposed to be on a leash at all times while on the trails, though occasionally people may allow off-leash play at their own risk. - Is there shade or shelter available?
Yes, the trails are almost completely shaded due to the wooded environment. - Are restrooms available for owners?
Yes, there is a portable restroom (porta potty) available at the parking lot. - Where is the best place to park?
There is a parking lot at 67 Skyline Dr, but it fills up quickly on weekends and holidays. Early morning or later in the afternoon are the best times to find a spot. - Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park?
Yes, Ramapo Lake Trailhead connects to various marked hiking trails popular for dog walks and runs. - Is the park muddy after it rains?
Some areas can be muddy or have shallow water crossings, so waterproof hiking boots are recommended after it rains. - Are ticks or other pests common in the area?
There are reports of lots of bugs, so bringing bug spray is recommended. - How busy does the park get on weekends?
The park and parking lot can become very crowded, especially late morning and midday on weekends and holidays.
Reviews
Very nicely marked trails. Very rocky so sturdy shoes are recommended. I have trekking poles but didn’t use them. Many areas to see the views of the surrounding area. Did see a black bear with two cubs so pay attention. Some nice inclines to climb. There are portable bathrooms at the parking lots. A bunch of signs telling you the trail names.
Parked here at 7:40am on Labor Day and only about 4 other cars there. Packed when coming back and 10:30, 3 cars waiting for spots.
This is a nice hike, I think 2.5 miles mostly flat around the lake, saw a person running around lake. Fish in the lake, people fishing but no swimming. Can hike up to the ruins too which are pretty cool. We saw nyc from the window of the ruin! Wish no one grifittied would have felt more majestic and old.
Trails are easily marked and can take a picture of it on the website first. Because the map at the park behind the glass is too dirty.
One port a potty in the parking lot. Lots of Bugs so bring bug spray.
The trail starts off right at the parking lot near porta poty.
Shady almost the whole way. Be prepared for lots of small rocks on a lot of the trail. There are some muddy or shallow water “crossings” that are nothing for decent hiking boots, which I recommend.
The path to the lake is mostly a slight uphill one. The lake is a nice reward for a slightly challenging hike.
Was really excited for a trail in NJ. DONT WEAR SUNSCREEN. we were immediately attacked and constantly followed by a hoard of mosquitos and flies who were constantly in our face and ears. It was so unpleasant we had to turn around. Others didn’t seem to have the same issue so it was definitely our sunscreen. Hike was rocky and moderately challenging. Would go again better prepared.
One portapotty that was truely disgusting with no TP so definitely be prepared
*EASY-MODERATE*
it was pretty cool trail! i would go again. its pretty laid back for the most part. around the lake is like gravel or sand almost. it can be muddy in some parts.
starting 20 mins are like rocky so careful there but manageable!
the lake is pretty and calming! it took us just short of 2 hours to complete (we also jogged a bit)
dogs are supposed to be on a leash but beware people have them off leash.
We actually did MacEvoy, Castle and Cannonball trail loop last week. Total 5.5 miles.
It was sunny afternoon and we really enjoyed this hike. Despite raining on the day before it was not muddy at all. We hiked with our dog and she did great because trail is mostly flat.
I would recommend to either come early morning or after 1-2PM because parking was packed when we came around 12