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What to do and see in New Jersey, United States: The Best State Parks
Whether you are looking for sun-drenched beaches or outdoor activities in beautiful countryside, New Jersey has plenty to offer. Those who love the great outdoors should head for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which runs along the Delaware River for forty miles. Here you can go rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking or fishing, or simply admire the stunning waterfalls. There is a huge range of hiking trails to choose from as well as historic sites to visit. In winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing near Blue Mountain Lakes, and birdwatchers might be lucky enough to catch sight of bald eagles. If you are looking for a change, visit one of New Jersey's eleven lighthouses that are open to public, such as the one in Cape May. For art and history enthusiasts, New Jersey State Museum in Trenton has historic artifacts and American fine art from the nineteenth century to the present day as well as a Planetarium.
Restaurants in New Jersey
1. Rancocas Nature Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
The Rancocas Nature Center is situated on a 210 acre piece of the Rancocas State Park, and features 3 miles of hiking trails through varied habitats including meadows, forest, and wetlands. Picnic tables are available near our building, but please carry in/carry out only. The Nature Center has been operating since 1977 and has been providing environmental education for the surrounding community during that time, presenting programs both on and off-site for groups including schools, scouts, libraries, senior citizens, as well as the general public. Please no dogs!
2. Gateway National Recreation Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 448 reviews
Site of the oldest lighthouse in America.
Reviewed By richardpE7533VU - Easton, United States
This area, in my opinion, has some of the best beaches in America. Lots of history here too. Great place for bike riding along the miles of bike trails. It's a little more crowded this summer because the New York City beaches are closed so those who usually would stay closer to home are coming to Sandy Hook and other New Jersey beaches. I could tell you the least crowded beach on Sandy Hook, but if I did, it would just get crowded. I'm keeping this beach a secret.
3. Ringwood State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 74 reviews
Reviewed By DavefromNJ - Montclair, United States
My wife and our 22 year old son and I did a great 4+ mile hike on a hot Sunday morning. We arrived about 11am and there was ample parking ($5) . We hiked from lot A on the white trail- connected to the red trail and went past the lake ; and then kept following the red trail to the green trail and back to white - which dropped us back near lot A. It was hilly and rocky but the trails are well marked and well maintained. There is a beautiful garden on the grounds and the restrooms were open. Masks a must on the public grounds. It’s worth a visit.
4. Island Beach State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 247 reviews
One of the few undeveloped barrier island covering 3,000 acres. Activities include fishing, swimming, sunbathing and surfing. The state's largest osprey colony, as well as peregrine falcons, wading birds, shorebirds, waterfowl and migrating songbirds, are found here.
5. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 535 reviews
On the northern tip of Long Beach Island, this park includes a maritime forest, lighthouse, and access to great birding and fishing sites.
Reviewed By Jellysnana826
My granddaughters loved our time there. I climbed to the top. I was so proud of them. The gift shop was a great place to learn about the lighthouse and buy some mementos of our trip.
6. Cape May Point State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 197 reviews
Reviewed By DJMAN5 - Abington, United States
Always a great visit, be sure to bring camera and binoculars. Covid safe walking. Three levels of easy walking trail thru to woods, marsh and lagoon beach areas. Very diverse- you will see many different birds as well as trees, plants, turtles. Red trail is .5 mile, Yellow 1.2, Blue 1.5. Very level and occasional seating. Well maintained with observation deck areas.
7. Liberty State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,471 reviews
Reviewed By ERat - Bunker Hill, United States
We stopped by for a quick visit before checking in to our hotel. All I can say is WOW! If you want a great view of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty without the crowds and craziness, you need to stop here. This would be a perfect picnic spot during warmer months!
8. Double Trouble State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 53 reviews
Reviewed By bhink0506 - Medford, United States
Beautiful area to hike, with many different trails to take: some shaded and some in the open sun. I especially love the trails that pass the stunning blue water. This is also a popular place for kayaking and for bringing dogs to play in the lake. Highly recommend as a day trip!
9. Swartswood State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 42 reviews
Reviewed By travelIGo
Swartswood Lake is a jewel in New Jersey. They don't allow gas motors on boats so the water is clear and beautiful. You can also fish this lake. In spring, summer, and fall you can use the park and camp.
10. Washington Crossing State Historic Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 102 reviews
Reviewed By worktotravel14
Certainly, the main attraction is related to your imagination -- and exploring land that takes you back to the birth of the United States as we know them now. You can explore old buildings or wander on paths. There are many hiking trails. And when the weather is rough, there are a lot of walkable trails. We went at the edge of the COVID-19 shutdown and the park was not charging admission and it was quite quiet. We could have spent a lot more time here, for sure.
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