🌤 Weather at The Hermitage by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29–71 °F | 58–84 °F | 35–76 °F | 20–43 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Wanaque Raymond Dam, 9 mi away, elevation 245 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
New Jersey’s Revolutionary War Estate — National Historic Landmark, Gothic Revival Mansion, George Washington’s 1778 Quarters, Aaron Burr’s Wedding Site, 14-Room House Museum, Ho-Ho-Kus Bergen County New Jersey
The Hermitage is a National Historic Landmark and 14-room house museum at 335 North Franklin Turnpike in Ho-Ho-Kus, Bergen County, New Jersey. This extraordinary estate connects visitors to both the American Revolution and 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture. In July 1778, General George Washington and his troops stayed here for four days en route from the Battle of Monmouth, and in 1782, Aaron Burr married Theodosia Prevost at the estate. The current mansion features picturesque Gothic Revival architecture designed by William H. Ranlett in 1847-48, guided tours interpreting Revolutionary War history and Victorian-era life, period furnishings reflecting the Rosencrantz family’s 163-year occupancy, educational programs, and special events including Christmas candlelight tours.
Revolutionary War History
During the American Revolution, the estate was home to Theodosia Prevost, wife of British officer Jacques Marcus Prevost, who remained at The Hermitage while her husband served elsewhere. In July 1778, she hosted General George Washington and his officers for four days as they traveled north after the Battle of Monmouth. This period brought many of the Revolution’s most prominent figures to the estate, including Alexander Hamilton, the Marquis de Lafayette, James Monroe, and Aaron Burr. Burr’s acquaintance with Theodosia during this period led to their marriage at The Hermitage in 1782, following her first husband’s death.
Gothic Revival Transformation
In 1847-48, the Rosencrantz family commissioned architect William H. Ranlett to transform the original 18th-century stone farmhouse into a picturesque Gothic Revival mansion. The renovation incorporated walls from the colonial-era structure while adding the dramatic pointed arches, decorative bargeboard trim, and romantic medieval-inspired details characteristic of the style. The Rosencrantz family owned the estate from 1807 until 1970, when the last resident, Mary Elizabeth Rosencrantz, willed the property to the State of New Jersey.
Visitor Information
The Hermitage is owned by the State of New Jersey and operated by the nonprofit Friends of the Hermitage, Inc. The museum offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events throughout the year. Interior rooms are furnished to reflect the lifestyle of the Rosencrantz family during the second half of the 19th century.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did George Washington sleep at The Hermitage?
Yes, Washington and his troops stayed for four days in July 1778 while traveling after the Battle of Monmouth.
Is The Hermitage a state park?
It is a state-owned historic site operated by the nonprofit Friends of the Hermitage. It functions as a museum, not a traditional state park.
Wildlife & Nature
The Hermitage — a Gothic Revival mansion in Ho-Ho-Kus — has connections to the Revolutionary War. George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette all visited. The grounds’ mature trees and gardens support songbirds, woodpeckers, and butterflies.
Nearby Attractions
Ho-Ho-Kus — adjacent. Paramus — 3 miles east. Ramapo Valley County Reservation — 10 miles west.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Ramapo Mountain State Forest (a short drive away) and Steuben House (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at The Hermitage
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash 6 feet or less, with the pet under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from swimming beaches and swimming waters statewide.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from cabins/lodging; the Pet Friendly Camping Program designates campsites at 13 areas (e.g. Round Valley all sites, Allaire 1-8, Bass River 1-85, Stokes 101-137) for up to two dogs or cats per permit.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $5.00 per night additional charge for a pet-friendly campsite; no day-use pet fee.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pet Friendly Camping requires current rabies vaccination with written proof at check-in; caged birds/reptiles only allowed inside RVs.
Are dogs allowed at The Hermitage?
Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dep.nj.gov. More: New Jersey state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
