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Ramapo College Of New Jersey

Attractions and Places To See around Ramapo College Of New Jersey - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Ramapo College Of New Jersey are found within a picturesque 300-acre campus in Mahwah, nestled at the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains. This region offers a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. The area provides access to extensive natural features, including mountains, lakes, and rivers, alongside significant historic structures.

Best attractions and places to see around Ramapo College Of New Jersey

  • The most popular attractions is Ramapo Lake, a lake that offers spectacular views over the water and surrounding rock formations. It is a popular place for anglers and paddlers, though swimming is prohibited.
  • Another must-see spot is Van Slyke Castle Ruins, a historical site featuring the ruins of a 20th-century mansion. The mansion was built to resemble a castle, offering a unique historical experience.
  • Visitors also love MacMillan Reservoir Dam, a man-made monument constructed of concrete faced with stone. This impressively long barrier holds back the reservoir's contents, with a thin veil of water typically trickling over its spillway.
  • Ramapo College Of New Jersey is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. From historic structures and scenic lakes to performing arts centers and hiking trails, there is a diverse range of attractions to see and explore.
  • The attractions around Ramapo College Of New Jersey are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

MacMillan Reservoir Dam

Highlight • Monument

Spanning about 250 feet long and rising 20 feet tall, this low-flowing dam is constructed of concrete faced with stone. Only a thin veil of water typically trickles over the spillway of this impressively long barrier, which holds back the reservoir's contents.

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Ramapo Lake

Highlight • Lake

Ramapo Lake offers spectacular views over the water and surrounding rock formations. It's also a popular place for anglers and paddlers to get out on the water, although swimming is prohibited.

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Ramapo River

Highlight • River

Great view of the Ramapo River from the crossing on the Vista Loop Trail. The river is a tributary of the Pompton River and at this point, is a calm, slow flowing body of water.

The river is popular among fly fishers looking to catch trout.

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Van Slyke Castle Ruins

Highlight • Castle

The Van Slyke Castle was a mansion built in the 20th century by stockbroker William Porter. It was meant to look like a castle, hence the name.

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Seven Lakes Drive Ascent to Lake Sebago

Highlight (Segment) • Climb

This road is a treat whether you're heading up or downhill. Lake Sebago is gorgeous as well and a great place to have a water break after the climb.

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Popular around Ramapo College Of New Jersey

Hiking around Ramapo College Of New Jersey

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Tips from the Community

Andrus
May 14, 2025, Seven Lakes Drive Ascent to Lake Sebago

This road is a treat whether you're heading up or downhill. Lake Sebago is gorgeous as well and a great place to have a water break after the climb.

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Andrus
September 4, 2024, Ramapo Lake

Ramapo Lake offers spectacular views over the water and surrounding rock formations. It's also a popular place for anglers and paddlers to get out on the water, although swimming is prohibited.

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Spanning about 250 feet long and rising 20 feet tall, this low-flowing dam is constructed of concrete faced with stone. Only a thin veil of water typically trickles over the spillway of this impressively long barrier, which holds back the reservoir's contents.

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mtm05005
August 26, 2023, Ramapo River

Great view of the Ramapo River from the crossing on the Vista Loop Trail. The river is a tributary of the Pompton River and at this point, is a calm, slow flowing body of water. The river is popular among fly fishers looking to catch trout.

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Nice ruin, the way up is also cool to walk, a real trail. Unfortunately, the walls below are all sprayed. What a pity!

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This is a beautiful 120-acre lake. A great spot to take a break.

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The Van Slyke Castle was a mansion built in the 20th century by stockbroker William Porter. It was meant to look like a castle, hence the name.

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This is a beautiful 120-acre lake. A great spot to take a break and relax.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore near Ramapo College?

The area around Ramapo College is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Ramapo Lake, known for its spectacular views and popularity among anglers and paddlers. The Ramapo River, a calm tributary of the Pompton River, is also nearby and popular for fly fishing. Additionally, the Ramapo Valley County Reservation offers miles of trails, scenic lakes, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit?

Yes, the region has several historical points of interest. The Van Slyke Castle Ruins are a must-see, featuring the remains of a 20th-century mansion built to resemble a castle. On the Ramapo College campus itself, you can find historic structures like the Birch Mansion, McBride House, and the Havemeyer Arch, which are significant landmarks.

What kind of outdoor activities are available besides hiking?

Beyond hiking, the area offers excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. You can find various MTB trails and road cycling routes around Ramapo College, catering to different skill levels. Ramapo Lake is also popular for paddling, though swimming is prohibited.

Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?

Absolutely. The Ramapo Valley County Reservation, close to the college, offers several easy trails. You can explore routes like the Vista Loop Trail, Darlington Park Trail, and Pond Loop Trail. For more options, check out the Easy hikes around Ramapo College Of New Jersey guide.

Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the area?

For scenic views, Ramapo Lake provides spectacular vistas over the water and surrounding rock formations. The Seven Lakes Drive Ascent to Lake Sebago also offers beautiful natural scenery as you climb. Many trails within the Ramapo Valley County Reservation lead to picturesque spots.

What cultural attractions are there on or near the Ramapo College campus?

Ramapo College hosts several cultural sites. The Berrie Center for Performing and Visual Arts includes the Sharp Theater for performances and the Kresge and Pascal Galleries for contemporary art exhibitions. You can also visit the Selden Rodman Gallery of Popular Arts, which houses one of the largest academic collections of Haitian Art in the U.S.

Are there any unique man-made structures worth seeing?

Yes, the MacMillan Reservoir Dam is a notable man-made monument. This impressively long barrier, constructed of concrete faced with stone, holds back the reservoir's contents and typically features a thin veil of water trickling over its spillway.

What is Ramapo Valley County Reservation known for?

The Ramapo Valley County Reservation is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It features miles of trails for hiking and walking, scenic lakes, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's also home to the MacMillan Reservoir Dam and offers access to the Ramapo Mountains.

Can I find places to relax and socialize on the Ramapo College campus?

The Ramapo College campus offers several spots for relaxation. The Grove, a large field in the heart of campus with the famous Havemeyer Arch, is a popular spot for students to relax. Cameron Pond is another scenic location for walks or picnics. There's also an on-campus Dunkin' Donuts in the Adler Center.

Are there any specific attractions that are family-friendly?

Many of the natural attractions are suitable for families. The easy hiking trails in Ramapo Valley County Reservation, such as the Darlington Park Trail, are great for all ages. Darlington County Park, nearby, also offers year-round outdoor activities, including a swimming lake in summer and sled rentals in winter.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in this area?

Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty, especially the views at Ramapo Lake and the peaceful atmosphere of the Ramapo River. The unique historical experience of exploring the Van Slyke Castle Ruins is also highly rated. The diverse range of outdoor activities, from hiking to cycling, is a major draw for the komoot community.

Are there opportunities for winter activities near Ramapo College?

Yes, Darlington County Park, a short distance from the college, offers winter activities including sled rentals, making it a good option for family fun during the colder months.

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