Closter Nature Center Closter Nature Center

Our grounds and trails are open from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year.  Our Nature Center building does not have regular hours, but if you see the open sign posted on the door, feel free to come in!

We welcome you to come and have a picnic at the tables available around Ruckman Pond.  However, consuming alcoholic beverages, smoking, and vaping are prohibited while on our grounds.  Please ensure any trash you generate is deposited into our trash/recycling receptacles at our Parking Lot, or take it back home with you!

Barbecues and fires are not allowed at Closter Nature Center.  Our firepit is for official programming use only.

Closter Nature Center is a pet-friendly reserve.  However, all pets must be kept on a leash no greater than a six-foot in length.  All pet waste must be cleaned up by the owner and properly disposed of in the proper trash receptacle.

Our trails are for pedestrian use only (hiking, walking, running, etc.).  Vehicles are only allowed in our designated parking lot at the Log Cabin.  If the parking lot is full, you may carefully park alongside Ruckman Road to access our grounds or cabin.

Yes!  However, due to limited parking, we ask that groups of 10 or more seek permission from the Closter Nature Center Executive Director at executivedirector@closternaturecenter.org.  One supervising adult must accompany every group of 9 children (12 years and younger).

No swimming is allowed on Closter Nature Center grounds.

Boating is only allowed under the direct control of CNC staff or approved volunteers during special events.  Boating by the general public is prohibited.

Ice-skating on Ruckman Pond is only allowed when expressly designated by signage on park grounds.  If you are unsure if it is safe to skate, please reach out at info@closternaturecenter.org

Catch and Release Fishing is allowed on Ruckman Pond only.  Fishing in other areas is prohibited.  Any individual over the age of 16 must display a New Jersey Freshwater Fishing License (which can be purchased at New Jersey Integrated Electronic Licensing System (aspirafocus.com))

• Externally playing sound systems (speakers, boomboxes, portable radios, etc.), televisions, and all other noisy electronic devices are prohibited on the property.  Please be respectful of those looking to find quiet in nature.

• Do not move picnic tables, benches, or trash receptacles

• Foraging, removal, moving, or damaging of any plant, wood, fungi, animal, stone, or any other natural material is not permitted.  "Leave only footprints, take only photographs"

• Feeding, baiting, or disturbance of wildlife is strictly prohibited

• Clean up all trash that you generate.  Trash receptacles are available in the parking lot at the Log Cabin