State Park Facilities Close to Help Reduce Spread of COVID-19

Updated: Jul 16, 2020 Short URL: gonj.me/6347jf

While social distancing is very important for all of us, being stuck inside is never good for both emotional and physical wellbeing. There were rumors that the State Park System would be closing all their parks, facilities, and trails, but that is not the case. here is a portion of their press release sent out today...

TRENTON Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Catherine R. McCabe announced today that public may still access the State Parks, forests, recreation areas and Wildlife Management Areas, including roads, parking areas, trails, lakes and other open space areas for healthful passive recreation.

However, campgrounds, visitor centers, nature centers, restrooms and similar facilities at state parks, forests, recreation areas, Wildlife Management Areas and historic sites are closed until further notice in order to protect public health and safety as the state works to address COVID-19.

Given the lack of services for the public, entry fees normally collected by state parks will be waived. Additionally, permits typically required including but not limited to mobile sport fishing permits (ie. beach buggy permits) are still necessary.

This approach will allow important access to outdoor activities such as walking to continue while limiting potential exposure and spread of the virus.

Keeping state-owned open spaces available to the public is important so people can continue to enjoy the healthful benefits of recreation and being outdoors, Commissioner McCabe said. We advise the public to practice social distancing while enjoying our open spaces.

Staff and Law Enforcement Personnel will continue to conduct routine patrols of open spaces to ensure public safety and general wellbeing of the visiting public.

In addition, the DEP is postponing all upcoming events, programming and camping reservations in State Parks and Wildlife Management Areas through April 30. Refunds will be issued, and events rescheduled at the appropriate time.

Again, facilities are closed, but roads, parking areas, trails, lakes and other open space areas for healthful passive recreation. This is great news!

Below you will find a list of all the State Park and Facilities that we have added into our system...


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Abram S. Hewitt State Forest

Hewitt, Passaic County, NJ

Abram S. Hewitt State Forest is located in Hewitt, New Jersey. A section of Bearfort Ridge, as well as the Appalachian Trail reaches into Hewitt State Forest, offering hikers a challenging climb with a rewarding view.



Absecon Lighthouse

Atlantic City, Atlantic County, NJ

New Jersey's tallest lighthouse awaits you at Pacific and Rhode Island Avenues in Atlantic City (walking distance from the Atlantic City History Museum/Garden Pier).



Allaire Campground

Farmingdale, Monmouth County, NJ

Allaire campground offers tent/RV/drive up camping, along with Yurt and Cabin rentals. Plus you will be right across the street from Allaire, and down the road from the village.



Allaire Group Campground

Farmingdale, Monmouth County, NJ

The group campground in Allaire is located along the south eastern side of Allaire SP. It offers 6 large sites, lots of trails, and close access to all of Allaire State Park.



Allaire State Park

Wall, Monmouth County, NJ

Allaire state park offers biking, a historical village, hiking, railroads, trails, fishing, deep woods, and many acres to explore.



Allaire State Park Disc Golf Course

Wall, Monmouth County, NJ

This new addition to Allaire State Park will certainly be a great one! This 18 hole disc golf course was added in 2018 through hard work from a group of volunteers and the NJ State Park System.



Allamuchy Mountain State Park

Allamuchy, Warren County, NJ

Allamuchy Mountain State Park offers a wide variety of activities, mainly consisting of hiking and mountain biking through miles of scenic single track.



Assunpink Wildlife Management Area

Robbinsville, Mercer County, NJ

Many activities are allowed within the park. Seasonal hunting/fishing, boating (kayaking/roof top launch plus small electric engines), horseback riding, an RC field and seasonal mountain biking (you can only bike during the warmer months).



Atsion Recreation Area

Shamong, Burlington County, NJ

The Atsion Mansion was built in 1826 as a summer home for Samuel Richards. Richards, who a prominent ironmaster from Philadelphia, was the operator of the Atsion furnace along the Mullica River. Today the mansion appears as it was back in 1826.



Barnegat Light House

Barnegat Light, Ocean County, NJ

The Barnegat Lighthouse contains picnic areas, trails along the inlet and to the beach, and of course the lighthouse itself. During the warmer months of the year, you are able to climb the lighthouse for a great view.



Bass River State Forest

Tuckerton, Ocean County, NJ

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



Belleplain Campground

Woodbine, Cape May County, NJ

No matter the season there is outdoorsy goodness and fun to be had at Belleplain Campground. This Pet Friendly campground offers large site, tent camping, group areas, rentals and more.



Belleplain State Forest

Woodbine, Cape May County, NJ

The forested acres of Belleplain include stands of young pine, oak and Atlantic white cedar, reflecting better soil conditions and less damage by fire than found in the Pine Barrens just north of the forest.



Brendan T. Byrne State Forest

New Lisbon, Burlington County, NJ

Formerly known as Lebanon State Forest, visitors are greeted by the fresh scent of pines. Today, hikers can follow the sandy trails and roads that crisscross the forest, sometimes passing near the remains of stone or brick structures.



Bull's Island Recreation Area

Stockton, Hunterdon County, NJ

Bulls Island is part of the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park. It is bounded by the Delaware River to the east and the canal to the west. The main intake for the canal is located at the northern section of Bulls Island. This 80-acre forested isla



Buttermilk Falls

Branchville, Sussex County, NJ

Buttermilk Falls (in the Delaware Water Gap) is a picturesque waterfall right by the road. It cascades spectacularly 90 feet down the red shale face off the Kittatinny Ridge.



Cape May County Park and Zoo

Cape May Court House, Cape May County, NJ

Visitors to the Cape May County Zoo are greeted by lions and tigers and bears, by red pandas and red foxes, by camels and cranes.



Cape May Point State Park (and lighthouse)

Cape May Point, Cape May County, NJ

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 about the park.



Cheesequake Campground

Old Bridge, Middlesex County, NJ

53 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets and shower facilities are within walking distance. Trailer sanitary station available. There is an 11-foot height restriction for vehicles entering the camping area.



Cheesequake State Park

Old Bridge, Middlesex County, NJ

Cheesequake State Park offers hiking, bike, walking, swimming, camping, and much much more for every who visits.



Corson's Inlet State Park

Ocean City, Cape May County, NJ

Corson's Inlet State 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.



Double Trouble State Park

Berkeley, Ocean County, NJ

Double Trouble State Park offers an outstanding example of the Pine Barrens ecosystem and a window into the Pine Barrens history.



East Point Lighthouse

Heislerville, Cumberland County, NJ

East Point Lighthouse is an active navigational aid built in 1849, situated on the picturesque Southern Bayshore in Cumberland County, New Jersey. The lighthouse has been fully restored, furnished and is a year-round museum open to the public.



Finns Point Rear Range Light

Pennsville, Salem County, NJ

c. 1876 wrought iron lighthouse is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Originally constructed in Buffalo, New York and then moved here by train and mule-wagon to New Jersey.



Forest Resource Education Center

Jackson, Ocean County, NJ

The Forest Resource Education Center (FREC) in Jackson provides an opportunity for people of all ages to learn and discover New Jerseys trees and forests.



Fort Mott State Park

Pennsville, Salem County, NJ

Fort Mott was part of a coastal defense system designed for the Delaware River in the late 1800s



Hacklebarney State Park

Long Valley, Morris County, NJ

Hacklebarney State Park offers miles of hiking, multiple waterfalls, and fishing access to the great black river



High Point State Park

Sussex, Sussex County, NJ

The view from High Point Monument, at 1,803 feet above sea level, is a spectacular panorama of NJ/NY/PA. Trails around the entire park will challenge even the most advanced hikers and bikers.



Historic Allaire Village

Farmingdale, Monmouth County, NJ

The historic Allaire Village contains buildings from the 19th century, including a general store, blacksmith shop, carpenters shop, managers house, foremans house and a church.



Historic Cold Springs Village

Cape May, Cape May County, NJ

Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May is an Early-American open-air living history museum! Step back in time to the 1800s while visiting an award-winning 30 acre-site.



Island Beach State Park

Seaside Park, Ocean County, NJ

Island Beach State Park, located in Ocean County NJ, offers beach access, cartop boat launching, walking trails through natural dunes, and much more



Jenny Jump Campground

Hope, Warren County, NJ

Located in the northern section of Jenny JumpState Forest, you will find 20+ campsites, 2 group camping areas, and 8 shelters (cabins). These beautiful and secluded spots are simply beautiful.



Jenny Jump State Forest

Hope, Warren County, NJ

Jenny Jump State Forest offers great views, great hiking, camping and more.



Jungle Habitat

West Milford, Passaic County, NJ

Jungle Habitat is maintained by Ringwood State Park, and is used by hikers, bikers, bird watchers. It contains miles of trails that weave in and out of the remnants of the old park.



Kittatinny Valley State Park

Newton, Sussex County, NJ

Glacial lakes, limestone outcroppings, former railroads, and a small airport are features of Kittatinny Valley State Park. Lake Aeroflex and Gardner's Pond form part of the headwaters of the Pequest River and are excellent for fishing and boating.



Lake Hopatcong

Lake Hopatcong, Morris County, NJ

Lake Hopatcong is the largest freshwater body in New Jersey, United States, about 4 square miles in area.



Liberty State Park

Jersey City, Hudson County, NJ

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.



Long Pond Ironworks State Park

Ringwood, Passaic County, NJ

Information about Long Pond Ironworks State Park coming soon. Please visit their site for more information.



Monmouth Battlefield State Park

Manalapan, Monmouth County, NJ

Monmouth Battlefield State 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 more.



Multiuse Trails in Allaire State Park

Farmingdale, Monmouth County, NJ

A network of trails winds through the park, providing opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Several moderate hiking trails are in the main day-use area of the park, accessible from the main parking area. The South Side area of the park is approximately 800 acres of varying terrain and has miles of unmarked trails and four primarily marked multi-use trails. The South Side trails are accessible from a trailhead at a large gravel parking lot on Hospital Road. Don't forget cross-country skiing in the winter, and you can even find some hills to sled in if you hike a bit.



Nature Interpretive Center in Allaire State Park

Farmingdale, Monmouth County, NJ

To help preserve the park's flora and fauna, large areas of Allaire State Park have been left in their natural state. The flood plain of the Manasquan River bisects the park and provides an excellent habitat for plant species not usually found in the



New Jersey Museum of Transportation - Pine Creek Railroad

Farmingdale, Monmouth County, NJ

The New Jersey Museum of Transportation, Inc. Pine Creek Railroad dates back to 1951 and is among one of the oldest continually operating narrow gauge steam preservation railway exhibits in the country.



New Jersey State Botanical Garden

Ringwood, Passaic County, NJ

From the delicate shades of a tiny wildflower to the vibrant colors of massed annual plantings, Skylands is a place of beauty in any season. Here you can wander amid the elegance of formal gardens, or along gentle paths winding through the woods.



Norvin Green State Forest

Ringwood, Passaic County, NJ

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.



Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource Education Center

Oxford, Warren County, NJ

The Pequest facility includes a Natural Resource Education Center for environmental education as well as the only state-owned and operated trout hatchery.



Planetarium at the New Jersey State Museum

Trenton, Mercer County, NJ

Soar through the skies in the Museum's spacious Planetarium, featuring precision projection of more than 6000 stars.



Princeton Battlefield State Park

Princeton, Mercer County, NJ

Information about Princeton Battlefield State Park coming soon. Please visit their site for more information.



Prospertown Wildlife Management Area

Jackson, Ocean County, NJ

Portions of Prospertown Lake border the Prospertown Wildlife Management area while another section borders the Six Flags amusement park. The lake is only about 80 acres large but features a number of inlets and coves to explore.



Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Haskell, Passaic County, NJ

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.



RC Flying Field (within Allaire State Park)

Wall, Monmouth County, NJ

The Jersey Coast Radio Control Club flies here anytime they can.



Ringwood Manor

Ringwood, Passaic County, NJ

This beautiful country house, which was home for a succession of well-known ironmasters for nearly 200 years, sits comfortably on a low hill overlooking a landscape that looks as if it escaped from a painting. Iron production in this area began in th



Ringwood State Park

Ringwood, Passaic County, NJ

Ringwood State Park offers so much for people of all levels to do throughout the year, including mountain biking, hiking, fishing, shooting range, picnic areas, playgrounds, swimming and more.



Round Valley Recreation Area

Lebanon, Hunterdon County, NJ

Round Valley Reservoir attracts swimmers, boaters, fishermen, picnickers and campers to its scenic shore, while the advanced trail system pulls in advanced bikers and hikers alike.



Sedge Islands

Seaside Park, Ocean County, NJ

The Sedge Islands is a pristine wetlands area that teems with wildlife. Paddle through the sedges and see the largest Osprey colony in New Jersey along with many other species of birds.



Six Mile Run Reservoir

Somerset, Somerset County, NJ

Six Mile Run offers amazing singletrack for both hikers and bikers throughout the year.



Spruce Run Recreation Area

Clinton, Hunterdon County, NJ

Surrounded by the rolling hills of Hunterdon County, Spruce Run Recreation Area is popular with picnickers, swimmers, fishermen, boaters and campers.



Stokes State Forest

Branchville, Sussex County, NJ

Stokes State Forest offers activities ranging from mountain biking, hunting, fishing, hiking camping, and much more. All in an amazing outdoor environment.



Sunrise Mountain Scenic overlook

Branchville, Sussex County, NJ

Enjoy breathtaking views of Sussex county on Sunrise Mountain Scenic overlook



Tillman Ravine

Branchville, Sussex County, NJ

The hiking trails on Tillmans Ravine lead you through pine and hemlock forests, across bridges, down alongside a fast moving and beautiful river



Tinicum Rear Range

Paulsboro, Gloucester County, NJ

The Tinicum Island Rear Range Light is a lighthouse located in the Billingsport section of Paulsboro, Gloucester County, New Jersey, United States, the rear of a pair of range lights marking a section of the channel in the Delaware River.



Twin Lights Historic Site

Highlands, Monmouth County, NJ

Twin Lights is situated 200 feet above sea level in Highlands, New Jersey, and overlooks the Shrewsbury River, Sandy Hook, Raritan Bay, New York skyline and the Atlantic Ocean.



UACNJ Observatory at Jenny Jump

Hope, Warren County, NJ

The UACNJ Observatory in Jenny Jump State Park is a collection of observatories, equipment, astronomy clubs, members and more.



Voorhees State Park

Glen Gardner, Hunterdon County, NJ

Voorhees State Park offers camping, nature trails, overlooks of NYC, a nice observatory, and much more.



Voorhees State Park Campground

Glen Gardner, Hunterdon County, NJ

Listing Added On Feb 14th. Information Coming Soon.. Voorhees State Park Campground



Voorhees State Park Observatory / NJAA

Glen Gardner, Hunterdon County, NJ

Voorhees State Forest Observatory, public events, NJAA, star watching, telescopes



Washington Crossing State Park (NJ)

Titusville, Mercer County, NJ

Both a historic location and just a beautiful place to visit, Washington Crossing State Park has a lot to offer anyone looking to get outdoors and enjoy nature.



Waterloo Village

Stanhope, Sussex County, NJ

Waterloo Village, 19th century Morris Canal port town, is a National Historic Site. It is located along the banks of the Musconectcong River in the in Sussex County, New Jersey. The Village, totaling over 400 acres, is managed by Waterloo Foundation.



Wawayanda State Park

Hewitt, Passaic County, NJ

Wawayanda State Park contains miles of amazing trails, a large fishing/swimming/paddling lakes, and so much more.



Wharton State Forest

Hammonton, Atlantic County, NJ

Throughout Wharton are rivers and streams for canoeing, hiking trails (including a section of the Batona Trail), miles of unpaved roads for mountain biking and horseback riding, and numerous lakes, ponds, and fields ideal for wildlife observation.



White Lake Wildlife Management Area

Hardwick, Warren County, NJ

White Lake lies within the 665-acre White Lake Wildlife Management Area between Blairstown and Stillwater. The property, acquired through the state Green Acres Program is partly owned by Warren County.



Winakung Indian Village

Stanhope, Sussex County, NJ

A life-size Lenape Village on Winakung Island in Waterloo Lake is a faithful reproduction, including long houses, huts, women's quarters, burial grounds, carvings, and artifacts. The island brings to life the culture of the New Jersey Indian at the t



Worthington State Forest

Columbia, Warren County, NJ

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 tra


About the author - Jeff C.

 Jeff C.
Jeff C. is a web developer in Central New Jersey that has a passion for helping folks get outside and explore NJ. He works on a few Outdoor-centric sites, including GetOutsideNJ, the NJ Outdoor Map, ExploringAllaire, and more. Please visit getoutsidedevelopment.com to learn more!

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