Covering more than 6,600 acres of dense New Jersey woodlands, Worthington State Forest caters to outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, avid angler, or winter wanderer, you'll find more than enough opportunities for adventure within Worthington's quiet, shady canopy.
Worthington State Forest is tucked along the New Jersey-Pennsylvania state line, just outside the city of Stroudsburg. Campers can enjoy the best of both worlds at Worthington -- close proximity to the creature comforts of an urban area and the peace and quiet of a forest preserve complete with two bodies of water.
Worthington State Forest's campground is well-equipped for tent and RV campers alike. While you'll certainly want to stay a night or three to experience everything Worthington has to offer, it also makes an excellent stopover or base camp for those exploring other nearby natural areas, including the Shawnee Mountain Ski area, the Appalachian Trail, and the Delaware Water Gap.
If you're planning the ultimate camping adventure in Worthington State Forest, stay vigilant for black bears! Although these big beasts tend to steer clear of humans, err on the side of caution and store all your food in a locked vehicle. Bear-proof lockers are only provided at the group sites.
The road to Worthington State Forest's campground is narrow. While there are a few pull-off areas along the way, practice caution when passing other vehicles. I-80 runs along the New Jersey-Pennsylvania state line, located a short drive outside the forest, so RV travelers can easily pull off the interstate and enjoy some seclusion in the woods before continuing on their road trip.
Two parking areas are available by the boat launch. Another lot can be found near the restrooms and picnic area at the northernmost loop of the campground. No parking or entrance fees apply, so feel free to park up and head out to the woods to see what adventures await you.
Worthington State Forest's campground has plenty of space to park your trailer. Of the 88 sites available, 52 welcome trailer campers, while 23 sites are designated tent-only. The remaining three sites are allocated for large groups and come complete with bear-proof food lockers.
Hookups aren't available here, but thanks to the campground's numerous water spigots and shower and restroom facilities, you probably won't need them anyway. Sites are back-in. Amenities include the standard picnic tables and fire rings as well as a lantern holder.
Worthington State Forest's campsites must be reserved in advance through the state's Department of Environmental Protection website. Out-of-state campers are subject to an additional surcharge. You can register your vehicle online while making your reservation, or wait until you check in at the park office. You'll need to leave your dog at home for this camping trip, though -- while pets are allowed to accompany day-use visitors, they're prohibited from staying in overnight facilities. Worthington State Forest's campground is open from April to December.
If you're craving a catfish plate for supper, pack your rod and reel in the campervan for your Worthington State Forest adventure. Cast your line from the Delaware River's banks in search of bass, walleye, and catfish. Planning a fishing trip at Worthington State Forest in the spring? You might reel in an American shad! Sunfish Pond is also a popular spot for anglers visiting the forest.
Canoers, kayakers, and other paddlers in non-motorized boats are welcome to launch out into the Delaware River and float along its gentle current. The boat launch is open all year-round, seven days a week. All boats must be free of aquatic nuisance species. If you don't have your own craft, there aren't any rentals at the state forest, but you'll find plenty of rental services within a short drive.
Seasoned hikers will find plenty of opportunities in Worthington State Forest to clock some serious trail mileage. Of the 26 miles of trails which wind their way throughout the park, seven are on the world-famous Appalachian Trail. Looking for a real challenge? Ascend more than 1,500 feet on the hike to the top of Mt. Tammany and be rewarded with sweeping views of the Delaware Water Gap.
To treat the kids to a quintessential camping experience, cook your Delaware River catches on one of the charcoal grills available in the picnic area. This shaded, serene picnicking spot is available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have your heart set on a family picnic, pack your picnic blanket in the RV in case all the tables are taken -- the picnic area is quite small.
Looking to restock the freezer with venison and turkey? More than 5,600 acres of the park are open to hunters in season. Deer, turkey, and waterfowl are all on the menu here. You'll need to obtain a state hunting license if you don't already have one, and it's always a good idea to read the fine print and brush up on state hunting regulations.
When the snow starts to fall, Worthington State Forest becomes a prime place for winter wanderers of all stripes to explore. You can zip down the trails on a pair of skis or roar through the woods on a snowmobile. Whatever you do, be sure to plan your route ahead of time -- many of the forest's trails include steep inclines and challenging terrain.
