NJ State parks are an amazing way to take in the beautiful scenery the Garden State has to offer. New Jersey parks offer lake, for swimming and boating, trails for hiking, mountain biking, nad horseback riding, and beautiful areas to enjoy camping.
The Best NJ State Parks to Explore This Weekend
If you’re looking for the best NJ state park to visit sometime soon, this is hte place to look. We’ve compiled a list of all of the New Jersey state parks, where to find them, entrance fees, and a bit about then from the State Site. Use the Jump to menu to head to the country nearest you!
NJ State Park Entrance Fees
With each park, we’ve listed the current NJ state park fee. These fees are typically collected from Memorial Day through Labor Day and reflect a per vehicle fee.
NJ State Park Pass
The State Park Pass is available for New Jersey residents at $50; Non-Resident $75. This providing free entrance for a vehicle for one calendar year to the state parks and forests facilities that charge daily walk-in or parking fees.
If you are a frequent visitor to the state parks, the purchase of the State Park Pass can equal huge savings on fees. The pass does not cover camping fees or guarantee entry when facilities are filled to capacity or for special events.
Atlantic County NJ State Parks
Atsion Recreation Area/ Wharton State Forest
Address: 31 Batsto Road, Hammonton, NJ 08037
Pricing: Weekends and holidays only, $5 for NJ residents or $7 for non residents
No entrance fee for Wharton State Forest.
Wharton State Forest is the largest single tract of land within the New Jersey State Park System. It is also the site of Batsto Village, which currently shows the agricultural and commercial enterprises that existed during the late 1800’s.
Find rivers and streams for canoeing, hiking trails, unpaved roads for mountain biking and horseback riding and numerous lakes, ponds and fields ideal for wildlife observation.
Burlington County NJ State Parks
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest
Address: Mile Marker 1, Highway Route 72 East, Woodland Township, 08088
Pricing: No Entrance Fees
Hikers can follow the sandy trails and roads that crisscross the forest, sometimes passing near the remains of stone or brick structures. Streams flow through acres of swampy land covered with dense stands of Atlantic white cedar.
Penn State Forest
Address: 762 Stage Road, Tuckerton NJ, 08087
Pricing: No Entrance Fees
Penn State Forest’s undeveloped wilderness attracts picnickers and hikers. Lake Oswego, a result of an upstream dam that was constructed to create a reservoir for a downstream cranberry operation, is suitable for canoeing and fishing.
Rancocas State Park
Address: Powhatan Indian Reservation Dr, Hainesport, NJ 08036
Pricing: no entrace fees apply.
The Rancocas Creek provides an idyllic setting to observe nature up close in this rustic park. Hikers, bicyclists and joggers are welcome, however, there are no staffed facilities on site. The Rancocas Nature Center (entrance off Rancocas Road) hosts a variety of wildlife and outdoor programs.
Cape May County NJ State Parks
Belleplain State Forest
Address: 1 Henkinsifkin Road, Woodbine, NJ 08270
Pricing: Weekdays: $5/resident, $10/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Belleplain State Forest was established in 1928 by the State of New Jersey for recreation, wildlife management, timber production, and water conservation. Lake Numm is a popular swimming, boating, and fishing area.
Cape May Point State Park
Address: Light House Ave, Cape May Point, NJ 08212
Pricing: no entrance fees
Although Cape May Lighthouse is a major attraction for many visitors to the area, the park’s constantly changing shoreline, dunes, freshwater coastal marsh and ponds, forested islands and varied uplands make it a well-known location for viewing the fall bird migration.
Located on the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May Point State Park is a key site on the NJ Coastal Heritage Trail, with an environmental center that houses a classroom for interpretive programs and a museum on the area’s natural and historic features.
Corson’s Inlet State Park
Address: County Hwy 619, Ocean City, NJ 08214
Pricing: No entrance fees, fees for boat launch and storage only
Corson’s Inlet State Park natural habitats are rich in the diversity of its wildlife with primary and secondary sand dune systems, shoreline overwash, marine estuaries and upland areas in which hundreds of wildlife species live and breed.
The park offers outstanding scenic beauty and endless opportunities for observing a multitude of migratory and residential wildlife species. Corson’s Inlet is extremely popular for hiking, fishing, crabbing, boating and sunbathing.
Gloucester County NJ State Parks
Tall Pines State Preserve
Address: 1705 Glassboro Rd, Sewell, NJ 08080
Pricing: no entrance fees
Abandoned as a golf course in 2006, Tall Pines went through a unique period of being unmaintained allowing trees and plants to grow undisturbed. Today when visiting Tall Pines, most of it’s past of being a golf course has been erased by nature.
Hudson County NJ State Parks
Liberty State Park
Address: 200 Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Pricing: no entrance fees
Liberty State Park is a green oasis in the middle of Metropolitan northern New Jersey. With the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island as a spectacular backdrop, Liberty State Park is one of the state’s most dramatic parks.
A two-mile promenade, Liberty Walk links the picnic area, Interpretive Center and the CRRNJ Terminal while presenting visitors with a sweeping view of the Hudson River. An outdoor performance area and other improvements mark the northern section of the park, while the western portion is dominated by the state-of-the-art Liberty Science Center.
Liberty State Park also is the only location in New Jersey with Ferry service to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Hunterdon County NJ State Parks
Bull’s Island Recreation Area
Address: 2185 Daniel Bray Highway, Stockton, NJ 08559
Pricing: no, boat launch charges
Bull’s Island is part of the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park. This 80-acre forested island provides numerous opportunities, including a day use area, playground, boat launch, and a section of the 70-mile D & R Canal Trail. A pedestrian bridge from the island crosses to the Pennsylvania side of the river and provides open views up and downstream of the middle Delaware River.
Round Valley Recreation Area
Address: 1220 Lebanon-Stanton Road Lebanon, NJ 08833-3115
Pricing: Weekdays: $5/resident, $10/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
Walk in/bicycles: $2
The brisk blue waters of Round Valley Reservoir attract swimmers, boaters, fishermen, picnickers and campers to its scenic shore. The reservoir is stocked with lake trout.
Round Valley is one of the few parks that offers wilderness camping. The campsites on the eastern side of the reservoir are accessible only by hiking or boating. The campers’ parking lot is three miles away from the nearest site, reachable by a steep and rugged trail. Cross-country skiers and sledding enthusiasts congregate at Round Valley in the winter months.
Spruce Run Recreation Area
Address: 68 Van Syckel’s Road, Clinton, NJ 08809
Pricing: Weekdays: $5/resident, $10/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
Walk in/bicycles: $2
Surrounded by the rolling hills of Hunterdon County, Spruce Run Recreation Area is popular with picnickers, swimmers, fishermen, boaters and campers. Spruce Run is the third largest reservoir in the state after Round Valley and Wanaque reservoirs.
Voorhees State Park
Address: 251 County Road Route 513, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826
Pricing: no entrance fees
Voorhees, like Parvin State Park, served as a camp for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) – Franklin Roosevelt’s program to get people back to work during the Depression. The CCC planted trees and constructed shelters, picnic sites and trails throughout the park. Two overlooks provide scenic views of Round Valley Reservoir and Spruce Run Reservoir.
Mercer County NJ State Parks
Princeton Battlefield State Park
Address: 500 Mercer Road, Princeton NJ 08540-4810
Pricing: no entrance fees
The famous Mercer Oak, once stood in the middle of the battlefield, not far from the spot where General Hugh Mercer fell during the Battle of Princeton. The Clarke House, built by Thomas Clarke in 1772, witnessed the fierce fighting and served as a sanctuary for General Mercer, who died there nine days later. The house contains period furniture and Revolutionary War exhibits.
Washington Crossing State Park
Address: 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville, NJ 08560-1517
Pricing: $5 for residents, $7 for non residents on weekends and holidays
Originally preserved for its historical significance, the park is well known for its trails and wildlife habitat. A wide variety of migrating birds use the stream and ravine as a resting place and for nesting.
Among the most notable species of wildlife are whitetail deer, fox, raccoon, great-horned owl, screech owl, red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk and Eastern bluebird. The park also is popular for picnicking and, in the winter, for cross-country skiing on existing hiking trails.
Morris County NJ State Parks
Senator Frank S. Farley State Marina
Address: 1304 Sloatsburg Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456-1799
Pricing: no entrance fees
This forested wilderness connects watershed lands and is crossed by an old logging road. Streams, mixed oak-hardwood forest and swamps comprise the park. Trail entry is through the Farny Natural Area. Split Rock Reservoir is adjacent to the park
Hacklebarney State Park
Address: 119 Hacklebarney Rd, Long Valley, NJ 07853-9525
Pricing: no entrance fees
The freshwater Black River briskly 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.
Today Hacklebarney is a favorite place for avid anglers, hikers and picnickers.
Hopatcong State Park
Address: Landing, NJ 07850-8519
Pricing: Weekdays: $6/resident, $10/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
Walk in/bicycles: $3
Nine miles in length and covered by 2,500 acres of freshwater, Lake Hopatcong is the focal point of the park. Hopatcong State Park is at the southwest end of the lake and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.
The historical museum is located in the old Morris Canal locktender’s house and offers exhibits on local American Indian history, the Morris Canal and the history of the lake.
Ocean County NJ State Parks
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
Address: 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006
Pricing: no entrance fees
The site of Barnegat Lighthouse is on the northern tip of Long Beach Island in Ocean County. The park is included as a maritime site on the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail.
Bass River State Forest
Address: 762 Stage Road, Tuckerton, NJ 08087
Pricing: Weekdays: $5/resident, $10/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
Walk in/bicycles: $2
Bass River State Forest was the first forest acquired by the state of New Jersey in 1905 for public recreation, water conservation, and wildlife and timber management.
Lake Absegami, a 67-acre lake created in the 1930’s, is the center of the forest’s recreational activities and provides an area for swimming and a serene setting for boating and canoeing. A trail through the Absegami Natural Area wanders through a pine/oak woods and a small Atlantic white cedar bog
Double Trouble State Park
Address: 581 Pinewald Keswick Road, Bayville, NJ 08721
Pricing: no entrance fees
Double Trouble State Park offers an outstanding example of the Pine Barrens ecosystem and a window into the Pine Barrens history. The park provides the protection and interpretation of over 8000 acres of significant natural, cultural, and recreational resources representative of the Pinelands National Reserve.
Island Beach State Park
Address: Lanoka Harbor, NJ 08734
Pricing: Weekdays: $6/resident, $12/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
Walk in: $3
Entrance fee the day after Labor Day to the Friday before Memorial Day is $5/NJ Resident and $10/Non-Resident.
Miles of sand dunes and white sandy beaches offer habitat to maritime plants and diverse wildlife that is almost the same as it was thousands of years ago. Island Beach contains outstanding examples of plant communities such as primary dunes, thicket, freshwater wetlands, maritime forest and tidal marshes.
Warren Grove Recreation Area
Address: 762 Stage Road, Tuckerton NJ, 08087
Pricing: no entrance fees
Warren Grove Recreation Area is an undeveloped wilderness perfect for hiking and birding. This 617-acre parcel is just west of the town of Warren Grove and straddles Ocean and Burlington counties.
Warren County NJ State Parks
Allamuchy Mountain State Park & Stephens State Park
Address: 800 Willow Grove St. Hackettstown, NJ 07840
Pricing: none entrance fees
The Musconetcong River, with some of the best trout fishing in the state, winds through Allamuchy Mountain State Park. Several miles of trails crisscross through the forests and marshlands of the park.
Monmouth County NJ State Parks
Allaire State Park
Address: 4265 Atlantic Ave. Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Pricing: Weekends and holidays only, $5 for NJ residents or $7 for non residents
Allaire State Park is probably best known for its historic 19th-century iron making town, Allaire Village, and its antique steam trains on the Pine Creek Railroad. The Manasquan River, which winds through the park, attracts canoeists and fishermen. Hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders enjoy the many trails in the park.
Cheesequake State Park
Address: 300 Gordon Road, Matawan, NJ 07747
Pricing: Weekdays: $5/resident, $10/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
Cheesequake State Park’s uniqueness lies in its geographical location. Not only is it situated in the middle of the urban north and the suburban south, it lies in a transitional zone between two different ecosystems.
Open fields, saltwater and freshwater marshes, a white cedar swamp, Pine Barrens, and a northeastern hardwood forest are the main characteristics of the park.
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Address: 16 Business Route 33, Manalapan, NJ 07726
Pricing: no entrance fees
One of the largest battles of the American Revolution took place in the fields and forests that now make up Monmouth Battlefield State Park. The park preserves a splendid rural 18th-century landscape of hilly farmland and hedgerows that encompasses miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, picnic areas, a restored Revolutionary War farmhouse and a visitors center.
Passaic County NJ State Parks
Abram S. Hewitt State Forest
Address: 885 Warwick Turnpike, Hewitt, NJ 07421
Pricing: no entrance fees
A section of Bearfort Ridge reaches into Hewitt State Forest, offering hikers a challenging climb with a rewarding view. The forest is isolated and untouched, accessible only on foot. Marshes and wetlands are scattered throughout the forest with several brooks and streams crisscrossing the lower areas.
Long Pond Ironworks State Park
Address: 1304 Sloatsburg Rd. Ringwood, NJ 07456-1799
Pricing: no entrance fees
The old stone walls, furnaces, and other remnants of the once industrious ironworking community now sit tranquilly next to the swiftly flowing Wanaque River. The village is undergoing research and restoration and one waterwheel has been reconstructed.
Norvin Green State Forest
Address: 1304 Sloatsburg Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456
Pricing: no entrance fees
The undisturbed forest and rugged terrain of Norvin Green offers sanctuary for birds and other wildlife. Part of the Wyanokie Wilderness Area, the forest is near Wanaque Reservoir and is home to an extensive trail system built from old logging roads.
Norvin Green provides the avid hiker with scenic vistas, including the New York skyline, Burnt Meadow Brook and Lake Sonoma.
Ramapo Mountain State Forest
Address: 1304 Sloatsburg Rd. Ringwood, NJ 07456-1799
Pricing: no entrance fees
This hilly forest is a sanctuary for wildlife. Hikers and mountain bikers enjoy miles of challenging trails. Many trails offer a view of the New York City skyline. Birdwatchers are attracted to the forest for its ponds, streams and marshes that provide the perfect habitat for bird and other wildlife species.
Ringwood State Park
Address: 1304 Sloatsburg Rd. Ringwood, NJ 07456-1799
Pricing: no entrance fees
Wawayanda State Park
Address: 885 Warwick Turnpike, Hewitt, NJ 07421
Pricing: Weekdays: $5/resident, $10/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
The quiet charm of Wawayanda appeals to hikers, campers, swimmers and boaters. Forested hills surround Lake Wawayanda creating a restful backdrop for canoeists, boaters and fisherman, while steep mountains challenge casual as well as serious hikers. More than sixty miles of trails are marked in the park.
Salem County NJ State Parks
Fort Mott State Park
Address: 454 Fort Mott Road, Pennsville, NJ 08070
Pricing: no entrance fees
Visitors can wander through the old batteries following interpretive signs with detailed descriptions of the fort. Just beyond the fortifications is the Delaware River. The shoreline offers good spots for walking and picnicking. The NJ Coastal Heritage Trail Welcome Center accommodates displays defining Fort Mott’s place in history and the environment.
Parvin State Park
Address: 701 Almond Road, Pittsgrove, NJ 08318-3928
Pricing: $2 walk in fee, under 3 are free
Situated on the edge of the Pine Barrens, the park not only has pine forests typical to the area but also a swamp hardwood forest. Thundergust Lake, Parvin Lake and Muddy Run are popular for fishing and boating. Swimming is allowed in Parvin Lake only.
Somerset County NJ State Parks
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
Pricing: no entrance fees
The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is one of central New Jersey’s most popular recreational corridors for canoeing, jogging, hiking, bicycling, fishing and horseback riding. The canal and towpath are part of the National Recreational Trail System. The 70-mile linear park is a valuable wildlife corridor connecting fields and forests.
Washington Rock State Park
Address: 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Pricing: No entrance fees
One of the oldest state parks in New Jersey, Washington Rock was originally purchased in 1913 to commemorate the historical events of 1777. Situated on top of Watchung Mountain in Green Brook Township, the park is best known for its scenic vista and historical significance. The park is a popular site for picnicking and relaxing.
Sussex County NJ State Parks
High Point State Park
Address: 1480 Route 23, Sussex, NJ 07461
Pricing: Weekdays: $5/resident, $10/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
The view from High Point Monument, at 1,803 feet above sea level, is a spectacular panorama of rich farmland and forest, soft hills and lush valleys in three states. The blue line of the Delaware River divides the verdant ridges of New Jersey from those of Pennsylvania. High Point offers superb trails for hikers and skiers and quiet spots for campers and anglers.
Kittatinny Valley State Park
Address: 199 Goodale Road, Newton NJ 07860
Pricing: No entrance fees
Glacial lakes, limestone outcroppings, former railroads, and a small airport are features of Kittatinny Valley State Park. This scenic property is home to a variety of wildlife such as whitetail deer, wild turkey, a variety of songbirds, beaver, muskrats, and squirrels.
Hunting, hiking, mountain biking, birding, and horseback riding are popular activities. The four lakes offer fishing, boating, and kayaking opportunities.
Stokes State Forest
Address: 1 Coursen Road, Branchville, NJ 07826
Pricing: Weekdays: $6/resident, $12/non resident
Weekends/holidays: $10/resident, $20/non resident
Motorcycle: $5/resident, $7/non resident
The breathtaking and panoramic view from Sunrise Mountain along the Appalachian Trail rewards the hiker who has trekked up the steep side of the mountain.
Stokes is famous for its impressive beauty, whether it is at the top of a mountain ridge or in the cool and fragrant Tillman Ravine with its rushing stream and steep cliffs. Hikers, campers, fishermen and photographers are attracted to its wild setting.
Warren County NJ State Parks
Jenny Jump State Forest
Address: 330 State Park Rd, Hope, NJ 07844
Pricing: No entrance fees
Panoramic vistas of the Highlands and the Kittatinny Mountains and Valley to the west, and scenic views of the Great Meadows in the east dramatically greet the visitor who climbs the narrow path leading to the top of Jenny Jump Mountain. Rocky outcroppings and boulders line the trail – evidence that great glaciers once covered what is now known as Jenny Jump State Forest.
Swartswood State Park
Address: 1091 E Shore Rd, Swartswood, NJ 07877
Pricing: No entrance fees
Welcome to New Jersey’s first state park and historic landmark destination for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. Swartswood Lake is the park’s main attraction, welcoming visitors from all around to its calm waters for canoeing, kayaking, sailing, fishing, swimming or simply relaxing.
Whether you prefer land or water, winter or summer, the park is open year-round with something to do every season.
Worthington State Forest
Address: 2 Old Mine Rd, Columbia, NJ 07832
Pricing: no entrance fees
Some of the most rugged terrain and splendid views of northern New Jersey are found in Worthington State Forest. A rocky and sometimes steep trail follows Dunnfield Creek from the Delaware River to Mount Tammany or hikers may choose to follow the trail to Sunfish Pond, one of the most popular sites in the area. A trail circles the pond, with many boulders and openings for resting and observation.
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