You may have heard that as of Memorial Day this year, New Jersey State Parks visitors do not have to pay admission all summer long. As outdoor adventurers and lovers rejoice, it’s worth noting that not all state parks are created equal in New Jersey. Some state parks are great for families and simply enjoying nature, while others are a thrill seeker’s paradise. With over 50 sites in the New Jersey State Park System, being able to enjoy all 453,000 acres of forests, beaches, lakes, and historic sites might prove to be a tad bit challenging. So to ensure you know where to go, here’s a list of the top ten New Jersey State Parks to take advantage of for free this summer and a quick overview of what each of them offers.
10 High Point State Park
With its stunning views from 1,803 feet above sea level, High Point State Park doesn’t disappoint. From the highest point here, park visitors can take in all the spectacular sites of the surrounding area, including rich farmland, lush forestland, soft rolling hills, and picturesque valleys in three states. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the blue line of the Delaware River here. In the way of activities, High Point offers terrific hiking trails and first-rate camping.
Location: 1480 New Jersey 23, Sussex, New Jersey, 07461.
Contact: (973) 875-4800.
Hours: Gates are open from 8 am to 8 pm daily.
9 Cape May Point State Park
For nature lovers looking for top-tier bird watching and ample acreage filled with meadows, ponds, forests, dunes, and a must-visit beach, Cape May Point State Park is for you. Not only is this beautiful state park right around the corner from historic Cape May and its famed lighthouse, but this park also has stunning beaches, hiking trails, Monarch butterflies, fishing, and so much more.
Location: Light House Ave, Cape May Point, NJ 08212.
Contact: (609) 884-2159.
Hours: Gates are open from 8 am to 8 pm daily.
8 Island Beach State Park
Here park goers can enjoy front row access to the Atlantic Ocean, the historic Barnegat Bay, sandy white beaches, ample wildlife, and a plethora of native flora. Island Beach State Park visitors can opt to take advantage of the facilities and available summer programs or just explore the various hiking trails at this recreation area. In the way of activities, this NJ State Park also offers guests fishing, waterfowl hunting, canoeing, ocean swimming, ocean picnicking, sailboarding, surfing, scuba diving, and more.
Location: Rt. 35 S., Seaside Park, NJ 08752.
Contact: (732)793-0506.
Hours: Gates are open from 8 am to 8 pm Monday through Friday, and 7 am to 8 pm on the weekend.
7 Liberty State Park
For travelers looking to marvel at the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island without breaking the bank, then free admission to Liberty State Park can make that a reality this summer. Known as one of NJ’s most dramatic parks, visitors can see the stunning skyline and easily appreciate the green oasis in the heart of Metropolitan northern New Jersey. While visiting, check out the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal (CRRNJ), the two-mile promenade, the multiple picnic and playground areas, the Nature Center, and the amazing view of the Hudson River.
Location: 200 Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305.
Contact: (201) 915-3403.
Hours: Open daily from 6 am to 10 pm.
6 Kittatinny Valley State Park
If you’re looking for fantastic glacial lakes, rivers, ponds, and more, then Kittatinny Valley State Park should be a part of your NJ summer park tour. Here, park-goers can check out a variety of waterways, including the deepest natural lake in New Jersey - Lake Aeroflex. Of course, it almost goes without saying that activities at this gorgeous park include fishing, kayaking, and boating. But visitors can also partake in mountain biking, hiking, birdwatching, wildlife watching, and horseback riding.
Location: 199 Goodale Rd., Newton, NJ 07860.
Contact: (973)786-6445.
Hours: Gates are open from 8 am to 8 pm.
5 Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
For visitors who prefer a one-of-a-kind state park with a good backstory, look no further than Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. Here park-goers can savor the panoramic views of Barnegat Bay, and Island Beach, and of course, appreciate this legendary lighthouse complete with a maritime site on the NJ Coastal Heritage Trail. Visitors should also stop by the Interpretive Center and hear all about the "Story of Barnegat Lighthouse," take a stroll through one of the last remaining Maritime Forest or try their hand at birdwatching and fishing. Ultimately, whatever you decide to do, just don't miss out on free admission to this park this summer.
Location: 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006.
Contact: (609) 494-2016.
Hours: Gates are typically from 8 am to 8 pm every day.
4 Allaire State Park
It doesn't get much better for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts than Allaire State Park. So stop by and travel back to the 19th century and see iron-making at its finest, Allaire Village, and the Pine Creek Railroad. Park-goers can also enjoy quality time at The Manasquan River and partake in some freshwater fishing. Alternatively, if fishing is not your thing, go hiking or blissfully study the over 200 species of wildflowers, trees, plants, and wildlife here.
Location: 4265 Atlantic Ave, Wall Township, NJ 07727.
Contact: (732) 938-2371.
Hours: This park is open daily from 8 am to 8 pm.
3 Hacklebarney State Park
Yet another 19th-century iron ore mining area is none other than Hacklebarney State Park. Now a beloved spot for hikers and anglers, this NJ State Park offers visitors a chance to see the gushing Black River gorge in all its beauty (with gray boulders and dark green hemlocks that look almost majestically placed in the river). Visitors can also appreciate this area’s woodlands and stroll along with a diverse group of trails. This little slice of the great outdoors is the perfect escape for anyone looking to reconnect with nature and take a much-need respite from everyday city living.
Location: 119 Hacklebarney Rd, Long Valley, NJ 07853.
Contact: (908) 638-8572.
Hours: Gates are open from 8 am to 7 pm.
2 Washington Crossing State Park
Park-goers can experience firsthand General George Washington's historic crossing of the Delaware River on that faithful Christmas Night in 1776 at this renowned state park. Thus, this park is ideal for lovers of history and all things Americana. This is also a great place to take the kids. In addition to this important moment in history, Washington Crossing State Park is a great spot for an afternoon picnic, some fantastic Instagram shots, and some good old-fashioned relaxation. So if you're in the area, check out this state park.
Location: 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville, NJ 08560-1517.
Contact: (609) 737-0623.
Hours: This park is open daily from 8 am to 8 pm.
1 Corson's Inlet State Park
Last but not least, a preserve for the state’s last untouched section of oceanfront, Corson’s Inlet State Park, is a definite must-see. With its breathtaking scenic beauty, thriving natural habitats, dune systems, shoreline, and more, this park is a true sight to behold. Here, park-goers can go hiking, fishing, crabbing, boating, and sunbathing. That said, it is worth noting that this park does not allow swimming or dogs (no dogs are permitted in the park from April 1 through September 15).
Location: County Hwy 619, Ocean City, NJ 08214.
Contact: (609) 861-2404.
Hours: Main gates are open daily from 8 am to 8 pm.