Wawayanda State Park
New Jersey

Wawayanda State Park

Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Swimming
  • Boating
  • Scenic Overlooks
  • canoeing
  • Beach
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026

Wawayanda State Park features 60+ miles of trails, the famous “Stairway to Heaven” hike, 19.6 miles of Appalachian Trail, and Lake Wawayanda beach swimming!

Hiking & Appalachian Trail

TrailDetails
🥾 Total Trails60+ miles
⛰️ Appalachian Trail19.6 miles through park
Stairway to Heaven1.3mi to Pinwheel’s Vista

Lake Wawayanda

FeatureDetails
🏖️ BeachWhite sand, lifeguards Memorial-Labor Day
🕐 Hours10 AM – 6 PM
🚣 Boat RentalsCanoes, rowboats, paddleboats
No Gas MotorsOnly electric allowed

FAQ

What is “Stairway to Heaven”?

A 1.3-mile climb up Wawayanda Mountain to Pinwheel’s Vista with panoramic views. Popular section of the Appalachian Trail!

⛰️ New Jersey’s Appalachian Trail Paradise

Visit NJ State Parks.

Location & Getting There

Wawayanda State Park is located in New Jersey. The park’s coordinates are 41.1981, -74.3977. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.

Quick Facts

  • Location: New Jersey
  • Coordinates: 41.1981, -74.3977
  • Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
  • Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)

Things to Do

New Jersey parks protect vast wilderness including Pine Barrens, Appalachian ridgetops, and Atlantic beaches. Activities include hiking the Appalachian Trail, kayaking through Pinelands waters, swimming at ocean and lake beaches, fishing, and exploring Revolutionary War sites.

Best Time to Visit

Fall offers cool hiking weather and northern foliage. Summer is peak for coastal parks. Spring brings coastal bird migration. Winter is quiet and peaceful.

Visitor Tips

Entrance fees $5-$20 depending on residency and season. State Park Pass $50 for residents. Ticks extremely common in Pine Barrens. Coastal parks fill by mid-morning on summer weekends.

Explore More New Jersey State Parks

Wawayanda State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New Jersey. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New Jersey guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

State Parks Team
Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The State Parks Team is a group of outdoor enthusiasts, researchers, and travel writers dedicated to showcasing America's state parks. Drawing on collective experience visiting parks in all 50 states, the team creates detailed guides, curated park lists, and practical tips to help visitors make the most of their state park adventures. Our mission: making America's state parks accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Last updated: February 20, 2026

Park Location