Discover the Beauty of New Jersey's National Parks
Discover What Makes New Jersey’s National Parks Special
New Jersey’s national parks offer a rich blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and history, making them a captivating destination for visitors of all kinds
From the serene landscapes of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, home to migratory birds and diverse ecosystems, to the breathtaking hiking trails and camping opportunities in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, there’s something for everyone.
Beyond the scenic vistas, these parks are a window into the past.
Morristown National Historical Park, for instance, preserves Revolutionary War sites, immersing visitors in the nation’s early struggles for independence.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife photography, backcountry camping, or learning about colonial America, New Jersey’s national parks promise an unforgettable experience steeped in natural wonder and historical significance.
Northern New Jersey National Parks
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Morris County, NJ
Spanning 7,600 acres, the refuge boasts diverse habitats and has become a haven for over 244 bird species throughout the years. Visitors may encounter foxes, deer, muskrats, turtles, fish, frogs, and a colorful array of wildflowers and native plants. The refuge offers 8.5 miles of primitive trails, with free-roaming and off-trail exploration permitted.
Great Falls National Historic Park
72 McBride Avenue
Patterson, NJ
A breathtaking natural wonder in America’s most densely populated state, Great Falls also played a pivotal role in the nation’s early industrial growth. Harnessing the mighty flow of the Passaic River, it powered America’s first manufacturing center during the Industrial Revolution. Today, the impressive falls, along with the historic buildings and raceways that surround them, tell the stories of Alexander Hamilton’s vision for an industrial America, the labor movement, and the vital contributions of immigrants. Hamilton saw Paterson—with the Great Falls as its driving force—as America’s answer to the industrial revolution that was transforming England at the time.
Morristown National Historical Park
30 Washington Placem
Morristown, NJ
Morristown National Historical Park preserves the sites of General Washington and the Continental Army's winter encampment from December 1779 to June 1780—an encampment that endured the coldest winter on record. Visitors can explore museums and exhibits, hike through Jockey Hollow and the Revolutionary War Winter Encampment, or join a ranger-led program. The Eastern National Museum stores, located at the Washington’s Headquarters Museum and the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center, offer a variety of books, artwork, postcards, and items for kids of all ages. Rangers are available at the Visitor Center or Museum to assist you and provide information.
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
211 Main Street
West Orange, NJ
This national park offers a unique opportunity to explore and interpret significant aspects of America’s industrial, social, and economic history, all while learning from the legacy of the world’s most renowned inventor. Once a bustling hub of innovation, this laboratory was the site of experiments for about half of Thomas Edison’s 1,093 patents. At its peak, it was among the first research and development labs, employing over 10,000 people. Edison’s most celebrated inventions—the electric light system, the phonograph, and motion pictures—all emerged from this pioneering facility, which is also recognized as the birthplace of motion pictures.
Central New Jersey National Parks
Sandy Hook Gateway Recreation Area
Sandy Hook, NJ
Sandy Hook Gateway offers a mix of history and natural beauty, featuring the nation's oldest lighthouse, scenic ocean and bay beaches, and plenty of activities for visitors. From swimming and birding to surf fishing and exploring the spectacular holly forest, there’s something for everyone. The park is perfect for biking along the seven-mile-long Multi-Use Pathway (MUP) that begins at the park entrance and loops around Fort Hancock. Hiking is also popular here, with trails starting at the Sandy Hook Visitor Center and near Nine Gun Battery in Area M.
Southern New Jersey National Parks
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
800 Great Creek Road
Galloway, New Jersey
Part of the Hudson River/New York Bight Ecosystem, the refuge safeguards over 40,000 acres of coastal wetlands and tidal habitats, providing essential support for a wide variety of water birds and other wildlife. Special emphasis is placed on managing habitats for endangered and threatened bird species that nest here.
The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge offers a range of activities year-round, including hunting, freshwater and saltwater fishing, wildlife viewing, photography, and environmental education.
Pinelands National Reserve
15 Springfield Road
New Lisbon, NJ
The Pinelands National Reserve encompasses over one million acres of farms, forests, and wetlands. It’s home to 56 communities—ranging from small hamlets to suburban neighborhoods—and more than 700,000 permanent residents. The Reserve offers a wealth of recreational activities, including canoeing, camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and access to historic sites. Visitors can also explore educational opportunities and discover countless sand roads that wind through the Pinelands.
Cape May National Wildlife Refuge
24 Kimbles Beach Road
Cape May Court House, NJ
The Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest in the National Wildlife Refuge System, was established to protect migratory birds along New Jersey's coastline. Encompassing 11,000 acres, it consists of three units: the Delaware Bay Division, the Great Cedar Swamp Division, and the Two Mile Beach Unit.
