Campgaw

## Overview Campgaw Spring is a public drinking spring located at the base of Campgaw Mountain in Mahwah, Bergen County, New Jersey. The spring sits within the Campgaw Mountain Reservation, a popular year-round recreation area managed by Bergen County that features a ski area, hiking trails, and mountain biking paths. Campgaw Mountain rises to approximately 750 feet and is part of the Ramapo Mountains, a northern extension of the Appalachian Highlands composed primarily of Precambrian gneiss — ancient metamorphic rock that naturally filters groundwater through its fractures and joints before it emerges at the surface. The spring has historically served as a water source for visitors to the mountain reservation. While visitors have reported the water to be clean and refreshing, water quality can vary with seasonal conditions. ## Directions 1. From Interstate 287, take the exit for Campgaw Road in Mahwah, NJ. 2. Follow Campgaw Road to the entrance of Campgaw Mountain Reservation (approximately 200 Campgaw Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430). 3. Enter the reservation and head toward the ski area facilities. 4. The spring can be found at the bottom of the ski area slope. 5. **GPS Coordinates:** 41.050975, -74.191144 ## What to Expect The spring is situated at the base of the Campgaw Mountain ski slope, making it relatively easy to access from the reservation's parking areas. The surrounding landscape is wooded and scenic, with mature hardwood forest typical of northern New Jersey's highlands. During winter months, the ski area is operational, so expect more foot traffic and activity nearby. In the warmer months, the reservation is popular with hikers and mountain bikers using the network of trails that wind through the 1,351-acre park. The spring area is at a low elevation point at the mountain's base, where groundwater naturally surfaces. Visitors should look for the spring near the bottom of the ski runs. Parking is available at the Campgaw Mountain Reservation lots. Note that the reservation may charge a parking fee during peak seasons, particularly during ski season. The terrain around the spring is generally accessible, though conditions may be muddy after rain or during spring snowmelt.