Mills Reservation County Park

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Normal Avenue At Reservoir Dr. Cedar Grove, New Jersey

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions: Mills Reservation County Park
Q: What is Mills Reservation County Park?
A: Mills Reservation County Park is a 157.15-acre county park located in Cedar Grove, New Jersey, maintained by the Essex County Park Commission. It offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including walking, jogging, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The park is known for its trails, with one prominent trail leading to a cliff offering views of New York City.
Q: Where is Mills Reservation County Park located?
A: The park is situated in Cedar Grove, New Jersey, within the Montclair and Cedar Grove areas. It's approximately located in proximity to New York City.
Q: What types of activities are available at Mills Reservation County Park?
A: Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, and exploring the park’s trails. The park’s location provides opportunities to appreciate the natural surroundings.
Q: Is there a dog park at Mills Reservation County Park?
A: Yes, there is a fenced dog park within the park.
Q: What are the hours for the dog park?
A: The dog park is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Q: Does the dog park have any amenities?
A: No, the dog park does not currently have drinking water available.
Q: What is the history of Mills Reservation County Park?
A: The park’s origins trace back to the efforts of the Kent family who purchased the area to protect and preserve the redwoods. President Theodore Roosevelt designated it as a National Park Service monument under the Antiquities Act, recognizing its “primeval character” and scientific importance. Historically, bears roamed the area, but were largely removed.
Q: What kind of trees are found in the park?
A: The park features a diverse collection of tree species, including redwood trees (some over 1,200 years old), California bay laurel, bigleaf maple, and tanoak. The redwoods' dense foliage naturally repels insects, contributing to their longevity.
Q: Are there any wildlife sightings possible at the park?
A: Yes, visitors may occasionally spot northern spotted owls or pileated woodpeckers within the forest. Other wildlife observed includes Sonoma chipmunks, western gray squirrels, and bats. In 2003, a male black bear was sighted in the surrounding area.
Q: What are some nearby attractions?
A: The park is located near New York City and other points of interest.
Q: How can I find more information about Mills Reservation County Park?
A: You can find additional details and updates on the Essex County Parks website: [https://www.essexcountyParks.org/](https://www.essexcountyParks.org/)

About

Mills Reservation County Park – A Natural Escape in Cedar Grove, New Jersey Discover the beauty and tranquility of Mills Reservation County Park, a 157.15-acre county park located in Cedar Grove, New Jersey.

Managed by the Essex County Park Commission, this park offers a wonderful outdoor experience for walkers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts.

Situated in the Montclair and Cedar Grove area, the park provides a valuable green space within easy reach.

Key Features & Activities The park encompasses a network of walking and jogging trails, providing a refreshing escape into nature.

One notable trail leads to a prominent cliff offering stunning views of New York City – a fantastic spot for photography and contemplation.

While the park is designed for peaceful recreation, it’s important to note that drinking water is not currently available at the park.

Dog-Friendly Access Mills Reservation County Park welcomes canine companions.

The park features a fenced dog park, allowing your furry friend to exercise and socialize safely.

Please remember to keep your dog under control at all times and to promptly clean up after them.

Historical Context & Natural Wonders Mills Reservation County Park boasts a rich history and remarkable natural features.

The park’s redwoods, some of which are over 1,200 years old, were originally purchased by the Kent family to protect and preserve this unique ecosystem.

The area’s historical significance was further cemented when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt planned to open the United Nations Conference on International Organization nearby.

While the park is known for its majestic redwoods, it also supports a diverse range of plant and animal life, including California bay laurel, bigleaf maple, tanoak, Sonoma chipmunks, western gray squirrels, and various bird species, including northern spotted owls and pileated woodpeckers.

Ongoing National Park Service monitoring projects continue to study the park’s diverse wildlife populations.

Planning Your Visit * Location: 255 Fairview Avenue, Verona, NJ 07044 * Hours: Open 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM * Important Note: No drinking water is available on-site.

Explore Further Interested in exploring more dog parks in the area? Visit [https://www.walkdoggin.com/DogParks/USA/New-Jersey/Cedar-Grove/Mills-Reservation-County-Park/4072](https://www.walkdoggin.com/DogParks/USA/New-Jersey/Cedar-Grove/Mills-Reservation-County-Park/4072) for a list of nearby dog parks.

Need travel tips for you and your dog? Check out [https://www.walkdoggin.com/DogStuff/Traveling-with-Dogs/Top-10-Dog-Friendly-Travel-Destinations/recbH15J0i8Y9kc5y](https://www.walkdoggin.com/DogStuff/Traveling-with-Dogs/Top-10-Dog-Friendly-Travel-Destinations/recbH15J0i8Y9kc5y) for ideas.

Curious about dog nutrition? Learn more about grain-free versus grain-inclusive diets here: [https://www.walkdoggin.com/DogStuff/Dog-Nutrition/Grain-Free-vs.-Grain-Inclusive-Diets---What’s-Best-for-Your-Dog?/rec67gHsMdjEdOzUq](https://www.walkdoggin.com/DogStuff/Dog-Nutrition/Grain-Free-vs.-Grain-Inclusive-Diets---What’s-Best-for-Your-Dog?/rec67gHsMdjEdOzUq)

History

Mills Reservation County Park, located in Cedar Grove, New Jersey, offers a beautiful natural space for recreation and enjoyment.

Established as part of the Essex County Park Commission, the park encompasses 157.15 acres and provides trails for walking and jogging, offering stunning views of New York City.

The park’s history is closely tied to the preservation of a unique redwood forest, a legacy stemming from the conservation efforts of the Kent family and President Theodore Roosevelt.

Prior to its designation as a monument, the area was known as "Redwoods Canyon." President Roosevelt signed legislation into law under the Antiquities Act to protect the area, recognizing its “extraordinary scientific interest and importance” due to the primeval character of the forest and its dense plant litter.

The park’s popularity grew significantly following the completion of the Golden Gate Bridge, with park attendance tripling to over 180,000 visitors in 1937.

Throughout its history, the park has been a site of scientific observation, including ongoing monitoring projects tracking the populations of northern spotted owls and other wildlife.

While bears were historically present, they were largely eradicated, though a male black bear was spotted wandering the area in 2003.

The park’s trails have faced challenges due to weather events; notably, a significant redwood tree fell in 2003 after a prolonged period of leaning caused by high winds, prompting trail reconfiguration and reopening.

Today, Mills Reservation County Park continues to provide a valuable resource for nature enthusiasts and visitors alike, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and rich history.

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Dog Park Wildlife Habitat Tourist Attractions Forest Trees Bears Bats Chipmunks Squirrels

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