Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area - Rockaway Township, NJ
Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area in Rockaway Township, NJ, is a fantastic dog park in Morris County offering pet-friendly trails and dog-friendly hiking experiences. This scenic area is perfect for dog owners looking to enjoy nature with their pets, featuring miles of trails that wind through historic mining ruins and beautiful wooded landscapes. The park allows dogs off-leash in many areas, making it a great spot for active dogs and their owners to explore safely.
Beyond its dog-friendly amenities, Wildcat Ridge WMA is rich in history and natural beauty, with unique features like the Bat Cave, old iron mine ruins, and the abandoned St. Patrick’s Cemetery. The park also offers great views from the hawk watch point and is adjacent to Farny State Park and Splitrock Reservoir, expanding the outdoor adventure options. Whether you’re seeking a quick hike or a longer day trip, this dog park in Rockaway Township provides a serene and engaging environment for dogs and their families.
FAQ for Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area in Rockaway Township New Jersey:
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash at Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area, as visitors have reported hiking with their dogs off-leash safely.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the area is good for kids and kid-friendly hikes are available, making it a family-friendly place for outdoor activities.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are extensive hiking trails at Wildcat Ridge, including routes with scenic views such as the hawk watch and various historic ruins from old mining operations.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? The park features a great gazebo that was updated recently and is suitable for birthday parties, picnics, and other gatherings.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is available near the park with various entrances, including a noted parking area off Green Pond Trailhead and supposedly near the hawkwatch, though precise locations may vary.
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Wildcat Ridge WMA (Wildlife Management Area) is administered by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.[1] It is located in the southern end of Rockaway Township, Morris County, New Jersey, United States off of County Route 513 (Greenpond Road). Farny State Park (undeveloped) and Splitrock Reservoir area are contiguous with Wildcat Ridge and also have public access.This WMA was an iron mining area and was the site of the Hibernia mines, Beach Glen mines and the Oreland (Upper Hibernia mine). All of the mine shaft openings have been closed off for the safety of the public. There are various ruins at each of the mine sites. In addition to these civil war era mines the Adventure/Hibernia Furnace was located approximately across the Hibernia brook from the current Hibernia Firehouse. This is also the site of many ruins of the Hibernia mine.Bat cave – this was the Hibernia mine tunnel where the underground railroad was located.Hawk watchOreland spur of the Wharton and Northern railroad.St. Patrick’s Cemetery – an abandoned cemetery originally established in 1869. Many of the headstones are engraved in an eastern european language, possibly Czech and/or Slovak. The cemetery serves as the final resting place for numerous workers who lost their lives in the surrounding iron mines.