South Mountain Reservation - West Orange, NJ
South Mountain Reservation Dog Park in West Orange, NJ
Discover a top pet-friendly destination at South Mountain Reservation, conveniently located on Cherry Lane in West Orange, New Jersey. This expansive park offers dog owners easy access to scenic, dog-friendly hiking and walking trails ranging from easy strolls to more moderate hikes. The park’s natural beauty, including Hemlock Falls and multiple streams, offers a unique experience for both you and your furry friend.
South Mountain Reservation is not just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts—it’s equally ideal for families and dog owners alike. With a dedicated dog park area, onsite parking, accessible trails, picnic areas, barbecue grills, and public restrooms, you can make a whole day of your visit. Kids can enjoy the nearby jungle gym, and with the Essex County Zoo and the reservoir just next door, there’s plenty more to explore. Whether you’re planning a hike, a picnic, or some off-leash play, this dog park in West Orange has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, there is a designated dog park area where dogs are allowed off-leash.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, the park features a nicely sized, fenced “doggy park” for safe off-leash play.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available onsite.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, both the parking lot and entrance are wheelchair accessible.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, picnic tables and seating areas are available throughout the park.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, you’ll find picnic tables and barbecue grills perfect for a day out.
- Is there parking available? Yes, onsite parking is provided for easy access.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park boasts a wide variety of clearly marked walking and hiking trails.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a jungle gym and playground area close to the dog park.
Reviews
A very quite nice and beautiful place. we did the yellow trail, the trail markers are painted instead of stickers , and hence washed out at many places, so need to be little careful or one can get lost and get out of loop. We had a perfect weather and the hike was easy.
So pretty! And although there was a good size crowd there, it was still serene. The statues were a nice touch. And there is a nice sized doggy park.
I’ve been to SMR with my ex gf many times and it’s just beautiful. Hemlock falls is where we had always taken a minute to sit down and enjoy some quality time with nature but where are so many trails you can go on that you could spend a whole day and not see it all.
Definitely recommend going. Some incline during the hike in places but for the most part its an easy hike.
If you’re not up for the hike you can always just take a walk around the reservoir and see turtles, ducks and sometimes a crane fishing…and speaking of fishing, there are many places you can fish in it as well as rent paddle boats. There is a pretty cool jungle gym if you have kids and when you’re done, there is a Mcloons Boathouse restaurant not far from the jungle gym and entrance to walk the reservoir with beautiful views of it. Nice fire pit outside the venue but plenty of room inside as well.
If you’re into MORE animals, the Essex County zoo is adjacent and accessible from the reservoir.
A beautiful and expansive park with a wide variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to more moderate hikes. Hemlock Falls is a must-see, and there are plenty of picnic areas, streams, and wooded paths. Great for trail runs, dog walks, and weekend getaways into nature.
What’s my best friend and my son, I went on a short hike for about 45 minutes. We just wanted to enjoy the rest of a beautiful day in the winter. The air was clean, and the trails were cleaner. All of the paths were clearly marked. I have no complaints. It was exactly what I had intended to do.