Stephens State Park stretches across 805 acres of rolling terrain in Hackettstown and Mount Olive Township, straddling the Musconetcong River in Warren and Morris Counties. Established in 1937, this park occupies land once home to iron forges and gristmills, and traces of that industrial past still linger along its wooded trails.

The Musconetcong River is the park’s defining feature. Anglers come for the trout fishing — the river is regularly stocked and offers some of the best fly fishing in northern New Jersey. Beyond the water, a network of trails winds through hardwood forests and along rocky ridgelines, connecting to the longer Highlands Trail for hikers looking to extend their range. Mountain biking and horseback riding are permitted on designated paths, and birders will find the river corridor productive year-round.

Camping information for Stephens has not been confirmed, so visitors should check with the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry for current availability and reservation details before planning an overnight stay.

The best time to visit depends on what draws you. Spring brings trout season and wildflower blooms along the riverbanks. Fall delivers some of the most vivid foliage in the Highlands region, with far fewer crowds than parks closer to New York City. Summer is ideal for longer hikes, though humidity can be intense in July and August.

Stephens is a quieter alternative to New Jersey’s more heavily trafficked state parks — a solid choice for anyone who values space, water, and wooded trails over amenities.

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