New Jersey is home to a diverse landscape that is perfect for outdoor lovers! From the beach to the mountains, there are plenty of places to explore in this small but mighty state. While New Jersey has a plethora of outdoor adventures one can experience, this blog post will discuss the top 10 places to visit in New Jersey for outdoor enthusiasts.
1. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Located along the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area encompasses over 70,000 acres within the two states and features a 40-mile stretch of the Delaware River. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping in this beautiful natural area.
2. Sandy Hook
Sandy Hook is a popular destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This 7-mile barrier beach is located in Monmouth County and is home to several hiking trails, fishing spots, and a historic lighthouse. Visitors can also explore the Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area which encompasses over 2,000 acres of beaches, dunes, and maritime forests. Sandy Hook tends to fill up on a hot summer day, so I recommend arriving early to ensure a parking spot. There is a fee for beach parking between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, and seasonal parking passes are also available for purchase.
3. Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Located in Morris County, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. The refuge spans over 7,700 acres and features multiple hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and fishing spots. Visitors can also explore the refuge’s educational center and attend guided nature walks and programs.
4. Cape May
Cape May is a historic seaside resort town located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey. The town is known for its Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and wildlife refuges. Visitors can enjoy hiking and birdwatching at the Cape May Bird Observatory and explore the Cape May Point State Park which features a lighthouse and scenic hiking trails. A unique excursion activity that visitors can enjoy is railbiking with Revolution Rail Co. This railway takes riders on a 4-mile out-and-back adventure alongside The Nature Conservancy’s Garrett Family Preserve!
5. High Point State Park
High Point State Park is located in Sussex County and is home to the highest point in New Jersey, standing at 1,803 feet above sea level. The park features several hiking trails, fishing spots, and a scenic drive that leads to the summit of the Kittatiny Ridge. Visitors can also explore the park’s historic monuments and attend guided nature walks and programs. If you can make a trip here during the peak fall months, I highly recommend it as the foliage is rich in color and makes for an extra beautiful hike!
6. Island Beach State Park
Island Beach State Park is a 10-mile stretch of barrier beach located in Ocean County. The park is home to roughly 3,000 acres of sand dunes, beaches, maritime forests, and tidal marshes. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing spots, and birdwatching opportunities at Island Beach State Park. Visitors can also explore the park’s nature center and attend guided nature walks and programs.
7. Pinelands National Reserve
The Pinelands National Reserve is a 1.1 million-acre area located in southern New Jersey. The reserve is home to roughly 22% of New Jersey’s total land area and lies within 7 counties. Visitors to the Reserve can enjoy several hiking trails, fishing spots, and campgrounds. Visitors can also explore the reserve’s historic villages and attend guided nature walks and programs.
8. Hacklebarney State Park
Hacklebarney State Park is located in Morris County and is home to some hiking trails, fishing spots, and waterfalls. The park also features the Black River, which is a popular spot for trout fishing. Visitors can check out the historic Hacklebarney Farm Cider Mill for a delicious treat and attend guided nature walks and programs while in the area.
9. Round Valley Recreation Area
Round Valley Recreation Area is located in Hunterdon County and is home to the Round Valley Reservoir; a popular spot for fishing and boating. The recreation area also features several hiking trails and a campground. Visitors can also attend guided nature walks and programs.
10. Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park, located in Jersey City, offers stunning views of the New York City skyline along the Hudson River. The park features scenic walking and biking trails, fishing spots, and a historic railroad terminal. Visitors can also explore the park’s interpretive center and attend guided nature walks and programs.
Overall, New Jersey offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy nature. Whether you are looking for a beachy vibe, a new park to explore, or one of New Jersey’s best hiking spots, this state has plenty to offer! While there are definitely more than ten places to visit in New Jersey for outdoor enthusiasts, these are some of the best to consider! For more ideas on what to do in New Jersey, check out the rest of my blog here.
