New Jersey Parks Locator | NJ Parks for Hikes, Biking and Walking

Abram Hewitt State Forest

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:29 -0400

The 2,000-acre Abram S. Hewitt State Forest encompasses a section of the Bearfort Ridge between Greenwood Lake and Upper Greenwood Lake, north of Warwick Turnpike.

Allaire State Park

Ken Malkin — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 20:18:00 -0400

Located on the New Jersey coastal plain, one-third of the park lies south of the Manasquan River and is on the northern fringe of the Pinelands, thus supporting a pine forest community. Birders will find spring migrating warblers and other songbirds as well as a variety of breeding birds, such as owls, warblers, vireos and indigo buntings.

In 1822, James P. Allaire purchased an iron furnace that dated from the 1790s. The furnace produced castings and pig iron for his foundry in New York and pots for the retail market. Under his guidance, the park became a self-contained community, with as many as 500 people living there during the years that it prospered. It is this village that has been restored to become Allaire Village, Inc. Costumed interpreters demonstrate crafts and recount history. Check web site for schedule.

Other park uses inculde hiking, canoeing and fishing along the Manasquan River, hunting, and a narrow-gauge steam train run by the New Jersey Museum of Transportation.

Allamuchy Mountain State Park

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:29 -0400

Embracing most of the Allamuchy Mountain upland between County 517 and the Musconetcong River, and bisected by I-80 near Exit 19, Allamuchy Mountain and Stephens State Parks together comprise 9,2

Apshawa Preserve

Phil McLewin — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 11:16:05 -0500

The Apshawa Preserve is a cooperative project of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation and the County of Passaic.

Assunpink Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:36:39 -0400

Purchased under the Green Acres Program, the 6,300-acre Assunpink WMA includes man-made and natural lakes, wetlands, former farm fields, hedgerows, and mixed hardwood forests. The three lake

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Phil McLewin — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 11:39:48 -0400

A popular tourist destination, the Barnegat Lighthouse is on the northern tip of Long Beach Island.

Bass River State Forest

Phil McLewin — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:20:46 -0400

Acquired in 1905, Bass River State Forest was the first state forest in New Jersey. The forest headquarters is at Lake Absegami, a 67-acre lake created in the 1920s, where there are camping areas

Batona Trail

Phil McLewin — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:34:15 -0400

Extending 49.5 miles through the heart of the Pinelands, the Batona Trail [pink] is the longest blazed hiking trail in southern New Jersey.

Belleplain State Forest

Phil McLewin — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 09:45:24 -0400

Established in 1928, Belleplain State Forest consists of lowland hardwood swamps, former agricultural area, stands of cedar, plantations of evergreens, and marshes.

Berkshire Valley Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 08:53:21 -0400

Berkshire Valley WMA is located in the vicinity of Lake Hopatcong, north of I-80 and west of NJ 15. It encompasses 2,030 acres of wetlands and upland mixed hardwood forest

Black River Cluster

Phil McLewin — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 14:20:02 -0400

In south Morris County the Black River flows for twelve miles like a lazy crescent from Ironia through Chester and Milltown to the county line. The place names with variations on "iron&

Black River County Park

Phil McLewin — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 13:42:39 -0400

Black River County Park, part of the Morris County Park System, consists of 510 acres. It includes four important cultural sites - Cooper Mill, Elizabeth D.

Black River Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 13:23:36 -0400

This 3,000-acre WMA encompasses river bottom, swampy woodland, freshwater marsh, fields and upland deciduous woods. Woods roads cross the mixed hardwood forest with a heavy understory and an

Brendan T. Bryne State Forest

Phil McLewin — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:12:31 -0400

Brendan T. Byrne State Forest covers 36,000 acres in the northern Pinelands.

Camp Glen Gray

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:31 -0400

Located in Mahwah, between Ramapo Valley County Reservation and Ramapo Mountain State Forest, Camp Glen Gray served as a Boy Scout camp until 2002, when it was acquired by Bergen County. The mo

Campgaw Mountain County Reservation

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:31 -0400

Capoolong Creek Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:08:16 -0400

Roughly paralleling Capoolong Creek, the Capoolong Creek WMA follows the right-of-way of the abandoned Pittstown Branch of the Lehigh Valley Railroad.

Cattus Island County Park

Phil McLewin — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 08:56:14 -0400

This Ocean County Park, north of Toms River, was funded in part by New Jersey’s Green Acres program. Seventy percent of the park consists of salt marshes, with some lowland and upland forests and a stand of the once-common Atlantic white cedar. Central to the park is the Cooper Environmental Center [see park’s web page], where visitors may see natural science exhibits and live animals, register for a variety of nature programs, or obtain a trail map and wander on their own.

Celery Farm

Phil McLewin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:15:22 -0500

The Celery Farm is a 107-acre freshwater wetland and, as its name implies, a former celery farm. Its entrance is easily missed traveling along the busy Franklin Turnpike in Allendale.

Cheesequake State Park

Ken Malkin — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:13:00 -0400

This park is a botanical preserve comprised mostly of salt marsh, pine barrens and mixed oak forest. An Interpretive Center, located a short distance from the trailhead parking area on the Red/Green/Blue trail offers informative exhibits, providing the public with an educational journey through the park's ecosystems. There is a small auditorium and the building has a small covered front deck that makes a wonderful spot to birdwatch. Check its website for a calendar of events or call for details at (732) 566-3208.Share your favorite hike(s) with Trail Conference web site visitors.

Clinton Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:07:17 -0500

This 1,953-acre WMA surrounds most of the Spruce Run Reservoir, with the exception of the day-use area of Spruce Run Recreation Area

Coastal Heritage Trail Route [New Jersey]

Phil McLewin — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 15:00:12 -0400

Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:14:04 -0400

Covering more than 12,000 acres, the Colliers Mills WMA is comprised of pitch pine and scrub oak forests, white cedar swamps, fields and lakes.

Columbia Trail

Phil McLewin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:28:54 -0400

Historically, the High Bridge Branch of the Central Railroad of New Jersey extended from the town of High Bridge, where it connected to the main line of the railroad, north to Hopatcong Junction,

Cushetunk Mountain Nature Preserve

Phil McLewin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:49:22 -0400

Adjacent to Round Valley Recreation Area is the 380-acre Cushetunk Mountain Nature Preserve. Cushetunk Mountain is part of a ring of mountains in that were formed by volcanic activity over 16

Deer Path Park

Phil McLewin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:38:37 -0400

A former summer camp, Hunterdon County acquired the property in 1977 for development and operation as an active park. The southern section of Deer Path Park in Readington Township offers pic

DeKorte Park [Hackensack Meadowlands]

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:45 -0400

See Hackensack Meadowlands

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park [NJ]

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:32 -0400

The Delaware and Raritan Canal was built in the early 19^th century as an effective means of transportation between Philadelphia and New York, facilitating connections to the rest of wo

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:32 -0400

Archeological evidence indicates that Native Americans came to the Delaware River Valley almost ten thousand year ago. The first tourists came to the Gap around 1830 to marvel at its rocky crag

Double Trouble State Park

Phil McLewin — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:10:51 -0400

Located a few miles south of Toms River, Double Trouble State Park is a captivating blend of natural and cultural history.

Eagle Rock Reservation

Georgette Weir — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 14:26:24 -0400

See the Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs website.

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

Phil McLewin — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:55:22 -0400

Following the pattern of a flat rock thrown across a body of water, the Edwin B. Forsythe National Refuge skips nearly fifty miles up the New Jersey shoreline jumping from Oceanville, north to Holgate, Manahawkin, Forked River and finally resting at Mantoloking. Managed to protect migratory birds, nearly ninety percent of the refuge is tidal salt meadow and marsh, interspersed with shallow coves and bays.

The Brigantine and Barnegat divisions were originally two distinct refuges, established in 1939 and 1967 respectively. In 1984, they were combined and renamed to honor the late conservationist congressman from New Jersey.

More than 6,000 acres are designated wilderness areas, including Holgate and Little Beach, two of the few remaining undeveloped barrier beaches in New Jersey. They protect nesting and feeding habitat for the endangered piping plover [pictured in the photo above], black skimmer, and least tern. To minimize disturbance to these birds and their habitat, public access is limited. Holgate is closed to public use during nesting season, April 1 until August 31. During all other times, the beachfront is open, although the dunes are always off limits and pets are prohibited. Little Beach is closed all year except by special-use permit for research or education.

About 3,000 acres are woodlands dominated by pitch pine, white oak, and white cedar. Fields amidst the woods provide habitat diversity. A wide variety of upland wildlife species frequent these areas.

Farny Highlands Cluster

Phil McLewin — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 15:53:52 -0400

Between I-80 and NJ 23 in north central New Jersey lie 35,000 acres of rugged land known as the Farny Highlands.

Farny State Park

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:33 -0400

This forested wilderness connects watershed lands and is crossed by an old logging road. Streams, mixed oak-hardwood forest and swamps comprise the park.

Flat Rock Brook Nature Center

Georgette Weir — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 15:43:59 -0400

The 150-acre Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, nestled in a suburban area on the western slope of the Palisades, was founded in 1973 to protect open space in Englewood and provide environmental education for both children and adults.

Flatbrook-Roy Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:45:50 -0400

Noted for its trout streams, the Flatbrook WMA contains 2,090 acres adjoining Stokes State Forest to its west.

Flemington Greenbelt

Phil McLewin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:51:30 -0400

Hikers whose family members consider shopping a recreational activity have an alternative. Within walking distance of the outlet stores in Flemington are four small parks, none of which has eno

Frelinghuysen Arboretum

Phil McLewin — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 16:34:12 -0400

In the late nineteenth century Morristown was a fashionable summer address for prominent families. The Frelinghuysen estate is now a 127-acre tract known for its rose garden and other floral di

Garret Mountain Park

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:33 -0400

See Garret Mountain Reservation

Garret Mountain Reservation

Phil McLewin — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:51:39 -0400

Garret Mountain Reservation is located in Paterson and Woodland Park (formerly West Paterson). It is divided into two parks: Garret Mountain Park and Rifle Camp Park.

Great Swamp Cluster

Phil McLewin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:29:24 -0400

The Great Swamp was created about 10,000 to 15,000 years ago when the melting waters of the Wisconsin Glacier poured into the Passaic Valley, forming the Glacial Lake Passaic. As the lake

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Phil McLewin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:18:57 -0400

The 7,700-acre Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge has become a resting and feeding area for more than 244 species of birds.

Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center

Phil McLewin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:25:52 -0400

This 42-acre park is on the eastern edge of the Great Swamp offering hiking and environmental programs. Trails include boardwalks that traverse wet areas, enabling visitors to explore the v

Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:14:30 -0400

The Greenwood Forest WMA stretches for miles along County 539 in Ocean County. The area contains forests of pitch pine and scrub oak in the uplands and white cedar swamps in the lowlands.

Hackensack Meadowlands [DeKorte Park]

Phil McLewin — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:36:55 -0400

Geologically, the Hackensack Meadowlands are part of the Mesozoic Lowland area between the Watchungs and the Palisades.

Hackensack River Greenway through Teaneck

Phil McLewin — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:16:03 -0400

The Hackensack River Greenway through Teaneck offers wildlife viewing of birds, mammals, reptiles and fish.

Hacklebarney State Park

Phil McLewin — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 14:00:23 -0400

The freshwater Black River cuts its way through rocky Hacklebarney State Park, cascading around boulders in the hemlock-lined ravine. Two tributaries, Rinehart and Trout Brooks, also course their way through this glacial valley, feeding the Black River. Even in the heat of midsummer, the temperature of Black River gorge is cool and refreshing. Of the Park's 893 acres, 273 are dedicated to hiking -- the remainder to hunting.

Hainesville Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:34:34 -0400

The eastern edge of Hainesville WMA nearly adjoins High Point State Park. It is one of the older, smaller [at 613 acres] wildlife ar

Hamburg Mountain Wildlife Managment Area

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:44 -0400

The Hamburg Mountain WMA with its 2,826 acres is for those hikers who enjoy the challenge of bushwhacking or following unmarked woods roads and want to be away from crowds. Elevations range f

Hartshorne Woods Park

Phil McLewin — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 21:45:54 -0400

A unit of the Monmouth County park system, Hartshorne Woods Park is named after Richard Hartshorne (pronounced "hart's horn"), the first European settler in the area, who purchased the

Hedden County Park

Phil McLewin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:13:16 -0400

The Hedden family donated the original 40 acres of Hedden County Park and in the ensuing years its size has been increased to 380 acres.

Helyar Woods [Rutgers Univ.]

Phil McLewin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 09:03:31 -0400

Rutgers University owns several natural areas near its New Brunswick campus that are open to the public and provide enjoyable opportunities for walking.

Henry Hudson Trail

Phil McLewin — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 08:42:29 -0400

The paved ten foot wide Henry Hudson Trail follows the right-of-way of an abandoned railroad line. In several disconnected segments it runs westward from Atlantic Highlands and then bows southward to Freehold while pierced by the Garden State Parkway near its mid-point as if an arrow were passing through. A ten-mile segment - the Atlantic Path -- on the former Highlands Branch of the Central Railroad of New Jersey is situated north of the Garden State Parkway. Plans are to extend the trail another 12 miles south of the Garden State Parkway to Freehold Borough. Currently two segments - the Matawan/Marlboro Path and the Marlboro/Freehold Path -- are completed totaling nearly ten miles. In addition the Bayshore Trail, which opened in 2009 as a Borough of Atlantic Highlands trail, will be transferred to the Monmouth County Park System and become part of Henry Hudson Trail network.

The Henry Hudson Trail honors the man who explored the harbor at Atlantic Highlands and its coastline in the early 1600s, but the trail has only a tenuous connection to the Hudson River which ends as it flows into Upper New York Bay several miles away. To plan a hike along the Hudson River in New Jersey a prime location is The Palisades.

High Mountain Park Preserve

Phil McLewin — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:19:33 -0400

High Mountain Park Preserve contains some 1,154 acres located in the Preakness Range, a northern continuation of the Second Watchung Ridge. The Preserve includes High Mountain itself, which features excellent views of New York City. Much of the rest of the Range is occupied by William Paterson University, a golf course and private homes.

High Point State Park

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:34 -0400

The 15,827-acre High Point State Park extends south ten miles from the New York state line. High Point has a natural landscape of unusual beauty onto which a designed landscape was placed. Re

Hoffman Park

Phil McLewin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:24:18 -0400

This 354-acre county park includes hardwood forest, grasslands, and 32 ponds of various sizes, which offer good fishing. It is a favorite for birders.

Holmdel Park

Phil McLewin — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:56:44 -0400

In 1962, the Monmouth County Park System acquired property which includes the living-history Longstreet Farm, an arboretum, two trout-stocked ponds, farm animals, and several picnic areas.

Huber Woods Park

Phil McLewin — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:36:24 -0400

In 1974 the children of Hans and Catherine Huber, a manufacturer of pigments used in dry inks, donated 118 acres of woodlands to the Monmouth County Park System. The park has been enlarged by subsequent donations, including the Huber family home, built in 1927, which has been transformed into an environmental center.

Hugh Force Park [Morris Canal]

Phil McLewin — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:06:26 -0500

See Morris Canal [Hugh Force Park]

Hunterdon County Arboretum

Phil McLewin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 15:00:45 -0400

The 105-acre Hunterdon County Arboretum is the headquarters of the Hunterdon County Department of Parks and Recreation. The arboretum was originally the site of a commercial nursery and is now

Institute Woods

Phil McLewin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:02:55 -0400

The 589-acre Institute Woods - a nature reserve of mature woodlands and fields - is part of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, perhaps best known as the intellectual home of Albert E

Island Beach State Park

Phil McLewin — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:45:17 -0400

An undeveloped stretch of barrier beach and salt marsh on the north side of Barnegat Inlet, this strip of unspoiled dune land has an almost impenetrable barrier of brier, holly, bayberry, and other shrubs between the fore dunes and the bay. Little grows above the height of the dunes, which shelter the vegetation from killing salt spray.

The Barnegat Lighthouse is about 2000 feet across the inlet. But getting to the Lighthouse from Island Beach State Park by car requires driving more than 40 miles taking more than an hour.

An entrance fee is charged daily year around, except for the disabled and elderly [see park’s web site under Contact Information below for details].

Jenny Jump State Forest

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:35 -0400

This 4,200-acre forest rises like an emerald jewel from the surrounding farmland, with overlooks along the ridge providing views over the fertile fields of the Great Valley to the Delaware Water

Jockey Hollow

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:35 -0400

Note that access to this section of the Morristown National Historical Park is free. See the park entry for full park details.

Jockey Hollow Cluster

Phil McLewin — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:29:42 -0400

It was to Jockey Hollow in January 1777 that George Washington brought his troops after their successful campaign against the Hessians at Trenton and the British at Princeton. The natural fo

Jugtown Mountain Preserve

Phil McLewin — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:01:36 -0400

The Jugtown Mountain Preserve, located on the peak of Musconetcong Mountain, is part of one of the principal ridges of the Highlands.

Ken Lockwood Gorge Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:24:22 -0400

Typical of Wildlife Management Areas, the 445-acre Ken Lockwood WMA is managed primarily for hunting and fishing. It is also one of the New Jersey's most picturesque. Towering hemlocks lining the

Kittatinny Valley State Park

Phil McLewin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:14:23 -0400

Within the 3,349-acre Kittatinny Valley State Park, there are four lakes, extensive wetlands, and limestone ridges. The Aeroflex-Andover Airport, operated by the NJ Forest Fire Service, is loca

Kittatinny [Great] Valley Cluster

Phil McLewin — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 10:58:42 -0500

The Kittatinny Valley, also known as the Great Valley, is a relatively flat expanse situated between the Kittatinny Mountains to the west and the Highlands to the east. The land is generally we

Lake Henry at Continental Soldiers Park

Phil McLewin — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:26:26 -0500

This multi-use park with a nice lake in the middle is owned by Mahwah Township.

Lamont Reserve

Georgette Weir — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 11:24:05 -0500

Lamont Reserve covers 134 wooded acres adjacent to Palisades State Park. Some remaining stone walls and old lanes testify to former occupation and logging on the site.

Lebanon State Forest

Phil McLewin — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:42:27 -0400

See Brendan T. Byrne State Forest.

Lenape Trail

Phil McLewin — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:43:07 -0400

Established in 1982, the Lenape Trail links a dozen county and municipal parks, a rail trail, the Patriots' Path, historic areas, and other landmarks along a 34-mile route in Essex County.

Lewis Morris County Park [Jockey Hollow]

Phil McLewin — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:25:36 -0400

This 1,154-acre county park, which borders on the Jockey Hollow area of the Morristown National Historical Park on the northeast, is named for New Jersey's first governor.

Loantaka Brook Reservation

Phil McLewin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:44:44 -0400

Loantaka is said to be a combination of two Native American words for "the place of cold water." It refers to the Loantaka Brook which flows into the Great Swamp. The 570-acre Loantak

Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Phil McLewin — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:20:34 -0400

The Monksville Reservoir dominates Long Pond Ironworks State Park. Historically, Long Pond, later called Greenwood Lake, gained prominence when Peter Hasenclever directed the construction of a

Lord Stirling Park

Phil McLewin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:37:18 -0400

The Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center is located within Lord Stirling Park and encompasses 425 acres of the western portion of the Great Swamp Basin. The varie

Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:36 -0400

Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, named after a former New Jersey governor and United States senator, is the largest Morris County park [3,042 acres]. It is a rugged area pinched between the

Mahwah Township Park

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:36 -0400

Manasquan Reservoir

Phil McLewin — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:53:51 -0400

This park - which encompasses 1,204 acres of land and water - surrounds the four-billion-gallon Manasquan Reservoir, completed in 1990. The reservoir is open for fishing year-round [state-is

Manchester Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:25:32 -0400

The uplands of the Manchester WMA include pitch pine and scrub oak providing habitat for deer, turkey, rabbit and quail.

Merrill Creek Reservoir Environmental Preserve

Phil McLewin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:37:41 -0400

Merrill Creek Reservoir Environmental Preserve offers opportunities for year-round recreational activities on over 3,000 acres of open space. Owned by a consortium of seven electric utilities

Monmouth Battlefield State Park

Phil McLewin — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 11:39:26 -0400

Monmouth Battlefield State Park is the site of one of the largest battles fought during the Revolutionary War. It took place on June 28, 1778, as a force of 5,000 Continental soldiers attempted to stop the British army retreat from Philadelphia to New York. It was during an artillery battle that Mary Hays, known as “Molly Pitcher,” carried water for the soldiers to quench their thirst and to cool the cannons. When her husband was fatally wounded by enemy fire, she took his position loading the cannon.

The Craig House, a mid-18th century farmhouse, has been restored to reflect life during the days of the Revolution.

A portion of the park is leased to a family which operates a “pick-your-own” orchard.

Morris Canal [Hugh Force Park]

Phil McLewin — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 14:56:41 -0400

Completed in 1831, The Morris Canal was built to transport coal from Pennsylvania and, it was hoped, revitalize the New Jersey Iron industry.

Morristown National Historical Park

Phil McLewin — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 12:31:48 -0400

Jockey Hollow, Fort Nonsense and the Jacob Ford Mansion were of importance during the American Revolution. Today they are part of the Morristown National Historical Park, created in 1935 as the

Mount Hope Historical Park

Phil McLewin — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:37:47 -0400

Known locally as the Richard Mine, Mount Hope Historical Park was once a booming iron mining and processing site. Mining at this site had begun as early as 1710 and did not end until 1958 - and

Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve

Phil McLewin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:49:59 -0400

This 74-acre natural area located just outside downtown Princeton is a favorite for family walks, birding, and fishing. Originally part of King George III's land grant to William Penn, it was f

Musconetcong Gorge Preserve

Phil McLewin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 09:09:31 -0400

Rising in Lake Hopatcong in Morris County, the Musconetcong River flows 44 miles to the Delaware River. It is a trout stream, with forests buffeting large segments. In its lower reaches, the

New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route

Phil McLewin — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 14:47:31 -0400

The Jersey Shore is not just resorts thriving on sandy beaches. It is also associated with lighthouses, historic villages, and wildlife migrations. It is because of New Jersey’s long connection with the sea that, in 1988, Congress established the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route. The National Park Service, the State of New Jersey, The New Jersey Pinelands Commission and many other organizations are working together to provide for public appreciation, education, understanding, and enjoyment of natural and cultural sites along the coast. Five themes – maritime history, coastal habitats, wildlife migration, historic settlements, and relaxation and inspiration – focus on the various aspects of coastal life.

Northern Stony Brook Greenway

Phil McLewin — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 21:42:05 -0500

Located along the ridge of Sourland Mountain, this 295-acre tract of privately owned land straddles the Hunterdon/Mercer county line.

Norvin Green State Forest

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:37 -0400

The 4,982-acre [and growing] Norvin Green State Forest has one of the largest concentrations of trails in the state. Norvin Hewitt Green, nephew of Ringwood Manor owner Abram S.

Overpeck County Park

Phil McLewin — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 21:57:00 -0400

The nearby Hackensack Meadowlands [DeKorte Park] was once a dump [or "landfill" as we prefer to say now] but currently is, by s

Palisades Interstate Park -- NJ Section

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:38 -0400

The New Jersey section of the Palisades Interstate Park encompasses about 2,500 acres along the Hudson River from Fort Lee to the New Jersey state line, where it continues into New York Stat

Patriots' Path

Phil McLewin — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:19:44 -0400

The Patriots' Path is a trail-and-greenway system in southern Morris County - and beyond -- which links federal, state, county, and municipal parks, watershed lands, historic sites, and other points o

Penn State Forest

Phil McLewin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:19:48 -0400

A prime attraction of Penn State Forest is Oswego Lake, whose water, because of the iron and cedar in the Pinelands, is the color of tea. In the center of the forest is Bear Swamp Hill, where there is parking and the foundation of a fire tower that was knocked down in an airplane crash in 1971.

About four miles east of the lake is the U.S. Navy Target Area at Warren Grove, and it is common in the Pinelands to see fighters and bombers practice here. The area around the target installation, just west of County 539, is one of the best places to see the Pine Barren Plains, the unusual pygmy forests in which full-grown trees are no more than six-to-eight feet tall.

The park is administered by the Bass River State Forest.

Pequannock Watershed

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:38 -0400

The City of Newark's Pequannock Watershed property adjoins the southern boundary of Wawayanda State park. The area encompasses 15,000 acres and includes five major reservoirs totaling almost

Pequest Wildlife Management Area

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:45 -0400

Paralleling the Pequest River east of the intersection of US 46 and NJ 31 in Warren County, the approximately 4,000-acre Pequest WMA is managed for upland game hunting and trout fishing. A uni

Point Mountain Reservation

Phil McLewin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:07:08 -0400

Point Mountain, at 935 feet above sea level is the third highest point in Hunterdon County. The name Point Mountain refers to the prominent crest that this property displays

Poricy Park

Phil McLewin — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 15:11:51 -0400

The fossil bed at Poricy Brook is what makes Poricy Park different from other nature preserves and historic sites. Not only can visitors dig for fossils, but they may also take them home. The fossils, mostly of shellfish, are approximately 72 million years old. The park asks that visitors sift the sand and gravel in the stream bed and refrain from digging directly into the banks, which causes erosion. As the park frequently schedules programs at the fossil beds, it is advisable to call ahead.

The site includes a restored Colonial house and barn dating to 1767. Although the Township of Middletown owns the land and buildings, the Poricy Park Conservancy [a non-profit organization] provides funding for the programs, professional staff, furnishings, and equipment.

Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:39 -0400

The 1,280-acre Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area encompasses Pyramid and Turkey mountains in Kinnelon, Boonton and Montville. Its features include unusual glacial erratics, dramatic rock o

Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:39 -0400

A rugged 4,268-acre area, Ramapo Mountain State Forest, with elevations ranging from about 200 to 1,100 feet, is a sanctuary for wildlife. Many trails offer a view of the New York City skyline.

Ramapo Valley County Reservation

Phil McLewin — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:39 -0400

"The Ramapo Reservation," located in Mahwah, is a 3313-acre Bergen County Park. Challenging hiking is possible but areas closest to the parking lot are primarily used for strolling, e

Rancocas State Park

Phil McLewin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:41:59 -0400

Located on the western edge of the Pinelands, Rancocas State Park is a mix of extensive lowlands, upland forest, overgrown fields, and freshwater streams and marshes. The New Jersey Audubon Society operates the Rancocas Nature Center, which is housed in a 130-year old farm house, and adjacent nature trails. For a description of trails (approximately 2.5 miles total), click here. The center and 120 acres are leased from the State of New Jersey. Another portion of the park is leased to the Powhatan Renape Indians. A replica of the Indian village of the 1600s has been constructed on this site.

The park is administered by the Brendan T. Byrne State Forest.

Richard W. DeKorte Park

webmaster — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 22:00:30 -0400

See Hackensack Meadowlands

Rifle Camp Park

Georgette Weir — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:48:52 -0400

Trails, bird-watching, a fitness trail, athletic facilities, nature center, and an astronomical observatory are among this park's diverse facilities.

Ringwood State Park

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:39 -0400

Ringwood State Park features both wild lands and landscaped gardens.

Rockaway River Wildlife Management Area

Phil McLewin — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:59:34 -0400

Rockleigh Woods Sanctuary

Georgette Weir — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:50:38 -0500

Rockleigh Woods Sanctuary comprises 84 beautifully wooded acres, three streams, and several wetlands. Once owned by the New York Boy Scout Council, Rockleigh Borough purchased the land in 1975.

Round Valley Recreation Area

webmaster — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:41:40 -0400

The Round Valley Reservoir was created in the 1960s. It is the deepest body of water in New Jersey at 180 feet. Surrounding the three-mile-long, two-mile-wide reservoir is a 1,288-acre multi-

Rutgers Ecological Preserve [Kilmer Woods]

Phil McLewin — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:38:59 -0400

Rutgers Ecological Preserve (Kilmer Woods) is a 370-acre tract of woods and fields located on the Piscataway Campus of Rutgers University. The area was once part of the U.S.

Saddle River County Park

Phil McLewin — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:14:20 -0400

The Saddle River County Park consists of a string of five recreational locations along the Saddle River from Ridgewood south to Rochelle Park.

Sandy Hook [Gateway National Recreation Area]

Phil McLewin — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 08:26:21 -0400

Sandy Hook is a unit of Gateway National Recreation Area, created by Congress in 1972 to provide parkland around New York Harbor - the gateway through which millions of immigrants entered the New World. The park includes six miles of ocean beaches, the waters of Sandy Hook Bay, salt marshes, hiking trails, shorebird habitat, historic Fort Hancock, and the Sandy Hook Lighthouse [the oldest in the United States]. There is a parking fee for beach access parking lots from Memorial Day to Labor Day [see the park's web page below under Contact Information for particulars].

The New Jersey Audubon Society operates the Sandy Hook Bird Observatory in one of New Jersey's best year-around birding locations.

Pets are allowed only on leashes, with additional restrictions at some times and places. Click here to learn more.

Scherman-Hoffman Sanctuaries

Phil McLewin — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:56:59 -0400