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Home >  United States  >  New Jersey  >  Ringwood  >  

Shepherd Lake

Shepherd Lake

United States, New Jersey, Ringwood 

Sandee

Shepherd Lake

United States, New Jersey, Ringwood 

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Shepherd Lake, located within Ringwood State Park in northern New Jersey, is a 74-acre spring-fed lake offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails. Known for its clear waters and serene atmosphere, the lake serves as a hub for swimming, boating, and picnicking, with lifeguard-supervised swimming available seasonally. The nearby New Jersey Botanical Garden and historic landmarks like the Church of St. Luke add cultural charm to this natural oasis, making it a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The lake area features a playground, barbecue spots, and multiuse trails for hiking and mountain biking, creating a versatile destination for both relaxation and adventure. Visitors often highlight the well-maintained facilities and the lake's tranquil ambiance, which provides a picturesque backdrop for gatherings and solo explorations.

Nearby dining options cater to diverse tastes, with standout choices like Artemio’s Prime and Proper, offering refined Northern Italian dishes in a cozy setting. Sam’s Bar & Grill provides a casual atmosphere with live music and LGBTQ+ inclusivity, while Lakeside Diner serves classic comfort food and breakfast favorites. Tree Tavern and Berta's Chateau round out the selection with wine-focused menus and upscale Italian cuisine.

While immediate lakeside lodging isn’t available, Crystal Springs Resort and Grand Cascades Lodge, both within a 30-minute drive, offer luxury accommodations with golf courses, spas, and multiple dining options. Ringwood State Park itself provides day-use facilities but no overnight stays, making these nearby resorts ideal for extended visits.

Shepherd Lake features picnic areas with barbecue grills, restrooms, and a playground for children. Boat rentals include paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks, with a boathouse operational until 4 PM. The lake area is equipped with accessible parking and pathways, though detailed accessibility features for restrooms or docks aren’t explicitly documented.

Swimming is permitted during lifeguard hours from Memorial Day to Labor Day, excluding Mondays and Tuesdays. Boating, fishing, and hiking dominate the recreational offerings, with trails like the Cupsaw Mountain Loop appealing to bikers and hikers. Winter brings cross-country skiing opportunities, though trails remain ungroomed.

Wheelchair-accessible parking, restrooms, and picnic areas are available, though trail surfaces may be uneven. The park’s website and user reviews don’t specify ramp access to the beach or watercraft, suggesting limited mobility assistance beyond paved areas.

Parking fees apply seasonally: NJ residents pay $5–$10 (weekdays/weekends), while non-residents pay $10–$20. Lots near Shepherd Lake and Skylands Botanical Garden provide ample space, with user reviews noting sufficient capacity during peak hours. No overnight parking is permitted.

Shepherd Lake operated as a ski area in the 1960s, and remnants of its ski lifts can still be spotted on trails. The lake’s Church of St. Luke was commissioned as a memorial to J.P. Morgan’s physician, Dr. Alfred Loomis, whose estate once included the lake. The NY-NJ Trail Conference maintains the area’s hiking paths, which occasionally offer glimpses of NYC skyline views.

The New Jersey Botanical Garden at Skylands, adjacent to the lake, showcases seasonal blooms and themed gardens. Ringwood Manor, a National Historic Landmark, offers tours of its 19th-century estate, while the Church of St. Luke (1895) adds historical intrigue with its stone architecture and Morgan family connections.

Basic Details

INParking

INRestroom Available

INBeige

INShepherd Lake Recreation Area, Shepherd Lake Rd, Ringwood, NJ 07456, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesLifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesPlayground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesPicnic Table

  • Activities

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesDisabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Parking - Free

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Shepherd Lake - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Shepherd Lake have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.

    Does Shepherd Lake have lifeguards?

    Yes, this Beach ensures safety with professional lifeguards on duty throughout the day, offering peace of mind for beachgoers.

    Is Shepherd Lake a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Shepherd Lake good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does Shepherd Lake have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Shepherd Lake a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Shepherd Lake?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at Shepherd Lake?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Bike Paths, Fishing, Hiking, Paddleboarding, Tours.

    Does Shepherd Lake have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    Yes, this Beach offers accommodations for people with disabilities, allowing everyone to relish the coastal experience.

    Is Shepherd Lake a dog-friendly beach?

    Yes, bring your dog with you to this Beach!

    Is Shepherd Lake good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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