If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just need a quick nature fix without a long drive, and New Jersey delivers. While visiting relatives, I’ve found so many peaceful escapes tucked between beaches, pine forests, and hidden lakes that I keep coming back to. In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite spots in New Jersey state parks, where the landscapes are surprisingly diverse and full of East Coast charm. Whether you're planning a family day out, a cozy weekend, or an active outdoor adventure, I think you’ll find a park here that fits just right.
Highlights:
- Hike scenic trails through forests, hills, and coastal areas. I’ve wandered through all kinds of terrain, and there’s always something new to see with each season.
- Relax on sandy beaches along the shore and lakes. I’ve spent lazy afternoons with my toes in the sand and a good book nearby—it’s such an easy escape.
- Go kayaking, fishing, and boating in peaceful waters. I’ve paddled quiet coves at sunrise and fished from shaded riverbanks—it’s my kind of therapy.
- Stay in cozy cabins or scenic campgrounds. I’ve camped under the stars and warmed up by a cabin fire, and both felt like a world away from the everyday.
- Explore historic forts, lighthouses, and family-friendly picnic spots. I’ve taken both day trips and slow strolls through history with friends and family, and I always leave feeling recharged.
Unique New Jersey State Parks
Allaire State Park - 1 hour and 15 minutes from NYC - Ride the train and explore a historic village on an educational trip.
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park - 2 hours by car from NYC - Climb the lighthouse and enjoy coastal views on a scenic day.
Bass River State Forest - Camp by the lake and hike wooded trails on a peaceful weekend.
Belleplain State Forest - 45 minutes from Atlantic City - Paddle quiet waters and bike forest roads on a fun family escape.
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest - About 1 hour by car from Philadelphia - Explore the Pine Barrens and spot wildlife on an unusual nature trip.
Cape May Point State Park - Watch birds and tour the lighthouse on an educational coastal outing.
Corson's Inlet State Park - 35 minutes by car from Atlantic City - Walk sandy trails and fish in calm waters on a relaxing beach day.
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park - Bike scenic towpaths and enjoy river views on a peaceful trip.
Double Trouble State Park - Visit a historic village and hike forest trails on a quiet outing.
Fort Mott State Park - 30 minutes by car from Wilmington, DE - Explore old military structures and picnic by the river on a historic trip.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Allaire State Park - 1 hour and 15 minutes from NYC
- • Barnegat Lighthouse State Park - 2 hours by car from NYC
- • Bass River State Forest
- • Belleplain State Forest - 45 minutes from Atlantic City
- • Brendan T. Byrne State Forest - About 1 hour by car from Philadelphia
- • Cape May Point State Park
- • Corson's Inlet State Park - 35 minutes by car from Atlantic City
- • Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
- • Double Trouble State Park
- • Fort Mott State Park - 30 minutes by car from Wilmington, DE