Day Trip to Harriman State Park — A Hidden Gem Nature Escape Near North Jersey

Harriman State Park — A Hidden Gem Nature Escape Near North Jersey

If you want a peaceful, nature‑focused day trip within one hour from Bergen County, Harriman State Park is a true hidden gem.
It’s huge, quiet, and perfect for couples, families, or anyone who wants a simple escape without complicated planning.

🚗 Drive Time

• Bergen County → Harriman State Park (NY): 35–50 minutes
• Address: 300 Seven Lakes Dr, Bear Mountain, NY 10911
• Multiple parking areas available throughout the park

🌳 What You Can Do at Harriman State Park

✔ 1) Seven Lakes Drive — Scenic Road + Easy Stops

This is the most iconic part of Harriman.
You can drive slowly, stop at lakes, and enjoy the peaceful views.

What you’ll see:

• Lake Sebago
• Lake Welch
• Lake Kanawauke
• Quiet picnic areas
• Beautiful forest roads

Why it’s great:

• Zero hiking required
• Perfect for photos
• Calm, relaxing atmosphere

✔ 2) Reeves Meadow Visitor Center

Address: 100 Seven Lakes Dr, Sloatsburg, NY 10974

This is the best starting point if you want a short, easy walk.

What you can do:

• Flat, beginner‑friendly trails
• Small streams and wooden bridges
• Shaded forest paths

Great for:

• Toddlers
• Couples
• Anyone who wants a simple nature walk

✔ 3) Lake Welch Beach (Seasonal)

Address: 800 Kanawauke Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980

During warm months, this area is perfect for relaxing by the water.

What you can do:

• Sit by the lake
• Walk along the shoreline
• Enjoy mountain views

✔ 4) Picnic Spots Everywhere

Harriman is full of quiet picnic tables and open spaces.
Bring simple snacks, sandwiches, or coffee — it makes the trip even better.

🍽️ Nearby Food Recommendations

Rhodes North Tavern (Sloatsburg, NY)

Casual American food, great for families and couples.
Only a few minutes from the park entrance.

Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club (Sloatsburg)

Aesthetic outdoor seating, healthy bowls, sandwiches, and coffee.
Perfect for a calm lunch after exploring.

Sloatsburg Coffee Shops

Great for grabbing pastries or drinks before entering the park.

🕒 Suggested Day Trip Schedule

10:00 AM — Enter via Seven Lakes Drive, stop at a few lakes
11:00 AM — Short walk at Reeves Meadow
12:30 PM — Lunch at Rhodes North Tavern or Valley Rock Inn
2:00 PM — Relax at Lake Welch or another lakeside spot
3:30 PM — Scenic drive back home

Simple, calm, and refreshing.

📸 Best Photo Spots

• Lake Sebago shoreline
• Seven Lakes Drive pull‑off areas
• Wooden bridges near Reeves Meadow
• Lake Welch mountain backdrop

🧭 Why This Trip Works

Harriman State Park is huge, peaceful, and incredibly close to North Jersey.
You can make the day as easy or active as you want — from scenic drives to short walks to lakeside relaxation.

👨‍👧 Dad’s Final Thought

Harriman State Park is a hidden gem that gives you space to breathe, slow down, and enjoy nature without going far.
It’s the kind of place where the drive, the lakes, and the quiet moments all come together to make a simple day feel special.