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The Best NJ Parks to Visit this Fall

What better time than autumn to explore all the beautiful parks found throughout New Jersey? The leaves on the trees are starting to change colors and there’s a slight chill in the air. It’s the perfect weather to grab a sweater and enjoy time outdoors with your friends and family. Here are our picks for the best NJ parks to visit this fall.

As a general COVID-19 note, the parks require masks in all situations where social distancing is not possible.

Quick Click Guide: Select an NJ Region below to find an NJ Park near you.
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North Jersey

Jenny Jump State Forest

Eagle Rock Reservation

Location: Prospect Avenue and Eagle Rock Avenue, West Orange
Details: Miles and miles of trails in wooded forests along the Watchung Mountains ridge line provide hours of outdoor fun. Hike to Lookout Point to see a spectacular view of the New York City skyline.
Why I like it: The reservation is home to the Essex County 9/11 Memorial. In addition to those lost that day, the memorial honors the rescue and recovery service workers and dogs.
More info: Click here to visit the website.


James J. Braddock Park

Location: 79th Street and Bergenline Avenue, North Bergen
Details: Another park offering a stunning view of the New York City skyline is James J. Braddock Park, which has 167 acres of land to enjoy. Meanwhile, if you walk the trail around Woodcliff Lake you’ll see an island in the middle. This island is home to the Natural Wildlife Sanctuary, but it is not open to the public.
Why I like it: This park is an athlete’s dream with 45 athletic facilities; including 21 tennis courts, three basketball fields, three football fields, and more.
More info: Click here to visit the website.


Jenny Jump State Forest

Location: 330 State Park Road, Hope
Details: This 4,466-acre state forest is ideal for hikers, with 14 miles of trails across rolling terrain; all leading, of course, to the top of Jenny Jump Mountain. The scenic views of the mountain ranges, as well as Ghost Lake down below, are a real treat. This NJ park offers camping, and the United Astronomy Clubs of New Jersey also hosts Saturday night stargazing through October.
Why I like it: This spot is home to black bears, so you may just meet one at Jenny Jump!
COVID-19 notes: Guests must wear masks in and around bathrooms and any other open facilities. Campsites and cabins are unavailable until further notice.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Mahlon Dickerson Reservation

Location: 955 Weldon Road, Jefferson Township
Details: You’ll find lovely wilderness here, at the largest park of the Morris County Park System. Highlights include 24 miles of trails by foot, bike, or horse, as well as a scenic view from Headley Overlook. At 1,280 feet of elevation, it’s also one of the highest points in the county.
Why I like it: There are lots of camping options, from wooded RV and tent sites to Adirondack shelters.
COVID-19 notes: Showers in the RV site remain closed until further notice.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Pascack Brook County Park

Location: 150 Emerson Road, Westwood
Details: If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the view, check out Pascack Brook County Park. This spot offers a large pond with trees on all sides. It’s great for either a walk in the forest area or a picnic lunch. Plus, there is also a playground and tennis courts.
Why I like it: They allow fishing as well as model boating in the pond.
More info: Click here to visit the website.


Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park

Location: 72 McBride Avenue, Paterson
Details: You don’t have to travel far to find a gorgeous waterfall. Paterson’s 77-foot high Great Falls is one of the country’s largest and well-known waterfalls. The best views are from Haines Overlook Park on the south and Mary Ellen Kramer Park on the north. You can go yourself, but they also offer guided walking tours daily at 11:00 am and 3:00 pm.
Why I like it: The Junior Ranger program teaches kids about the mission of the National Park Service.
COVID-19 notes: The Welcome Center, bathrooms, services, and guided walking tours are closed until further notice.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Swartswood State Park

Location: 1091 East Shore Road, Swartswood
Details: Swartswood is New Jersey’s first state park — established in 1915 — and remains a historic landmark today. In addition, Swartswood Lake is the state’s third largest freshwater lake. Though they host many outdoor activities throughout the year, fall is a great time to visit; in particular for those who enjoy hiking, biking, camping, fishing, picnicking, and bird watching. Finally, their ten hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty are perfect for novice and frequent hikers alike.
Why I like it: Campers can rent a campsite or shelter for the evening, including pet-friendly campsites!
COVID-19 notes: Guests must wear masks in and around bathrooms and any other open facilities. Campsites and cabins are unavailable until further notice.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Central Jersey

Natirar

Horseshoe Bend Park

Location: 178 Horseshoe Bend Road, Frenchtown
Details: This NJ park offers views of the Delaware River Valley, wooded forests, and rolling hills. One standout trail of this 552-acre park is the 3.3 mile Orange Trail; which goes around the park’s perimeter and past Copper Creek. Horseshoe Bend hosts horseback riding events, dog shows, and astronomy events throughout the year.
Why I like it: This is Hunterdon County’s largest leash-free dog park. In fact, your furry friend can enjoy 7 acres of fenced-in land.
COVID-19 notes: Horseshoe Bend Park South is closed until further notice, but North remains open for individual use. (No group activities).
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Ireland Brook Conservation Area

Location: Parkview Court, North Brunswick
Details: Fall is the best time to hike here if you want a gorgeous view of foliage. There’s likely no better place for upland habitat and riparian vegetation (where the land and water meet). Hiking trail highlights of this 520-acre area lead you by brooks, a lake, and unique rock formations.
Why I like it: The hikes are short, easy, and not too busy, so it’s great for younger kids.
More info: Click here to visit the website.


Mindowaskin Park

Location: 425 East Broad Street, Westfield
Details: Mindowaskin Park is a popular spot for photo shoots. It provides the perfect backdrop for engagements, weddings, or family photos. The gazebo offers people watching, whereas the lake gives you a glimpse of the ducks and the fountain. There’s also a playground for kids to enjoy, making this a fun family day outdoors.
Why I like it: It’s just steps away from downtown Westfield, a shopper’s delight with chic boutiques and great restaurants.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Natirar Park

Location: 2 Main Street, Peapack
Details: This Somerset County stunner is home to rolling hills, wooded trails, fields, and meadows. The whole family can enjoy the beauty of fall during a relaxing hike. The 1.3-mile Great Meadow Trail and the 1-mile Upper Field Nature Trail offer views of the Raritan River. You can also jog, bike, or even ride horses along the trails.
Why I like it: You can fish in certain areas of Natirar (the online map has details).
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


South Riverwalk Park

Location: John Fitch Way, Trenton
Details: Of the NJ parks on our list, this one is a little different; this urban park connects residents with the waterfront while also honoring Trenton’s history. For instance, the path along the Delaware River has five arches crafted from different materials; each one represents a different era in Trenton’s history.
Why I like it: The bronze “Circle of Peace” sculpture invites children to stand in the missing part to complete the circle, symbolizing the friendships that occur when there is no prejudice.
COVID-19 notes: The park is open for passive recreation only and they ask guests to wear masks.
More info: Click here to visit the website.


Jersey Shore

Wharton State Forest

Allaire State Park

Location: 4265 Atlantic Avenue, Wall Township
Details: Over 200 different species of wildflowers, trees, and plants can be found within 3,205 acres of Allaire State Park. Meanwhile, you can hike or kayak along the Manasquan River, and also visit the Historic Allaire Village; a living history museum that showcases early 19th century life. Likewise, the Pine Creek Railroad offers a vintage train ride.
Why I like it: Allaire Village hosts special events almost every weekend; during fall, those events include flea markets and haunted hayrides.
COVID-19 notes: They require masks throughout Historic Allaire Village and in the park. Campsites and cabins are currently unavailable until further notice.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Cape May Point State Park

Location: Light House Avenue, Cape May
Details: Cape May Point State Park offers 244 acres of hiking trails leading through pond, coastal dune, marsh, and forest. You’ll also find concessions, an interpretive center and, of course, the Cape May Lighthouse. Those that endure the 199 lighthouse steps earn a truly stunning view of the Cape May peninsula.
Why I like it: Cape May Point is known as a major migratory route; in other words, you will spot hundreds of hawks passing by each fall as they head south.
COVID-19 notes: You must wear a mask to climb the Lighthouse and throughout the park when near others.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Cattus Island County Park

Location: 1170 Cattus Island Boulevard, Toms River
Details: “Flora and fauna at its finest” is what you’ll find at Cattus Island Park. Short, easy trails within the park lead you along the bay or to the ocean. In addition, recent renovations to the Cooper Environmental Center now allow bird, reptile, and fish viewing areas.
Why I like it: You can make a fun little game out of printing the brochure. Challenge your family to find all the species living in the park’s Butterfly Garden.
COVID-19 notes: They allow passive recreation at the park and the Environmental Center is open with limited access. They require masks near any open facilities and other guests. 
More info: Click here to visit the website.


Wharton State Forest

Location: 31 Batsto Road, Hammonton
Details: The 115,000-acre Wharton State Forest is made up of pinelands and is the largest NJ state park. Apple Pie Hill (part of the 50-mile Batona Trail) offers panoramic views of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Meanwhile, history buffs will love Batsto Village, a former bog iron and glass making industrial center; then there’s Harrisville, a real 19th century ghost town. Those the wish to canoe can do so on the Mullica, Batsto, Wading, and Oswego Rivers.
Why I like it: The Atsion Recreation Area offers a picnic area, restrooms, and a concession stand.
COVID-19 notes: The Atsion Office is closed for the season. Campsites and cabins are also unavailable until further notice. They require masks near all open facilities, and around others.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


South Jersey

NJ Parks

Amico Island Park

Location: 81 Norman Avenue, Delran
Details: Within its 55 acres, Amico Island Park offers a variety of habitats. FOr example, you can hike or bike through the forests, ponds, wetlands, river shoreline, and meadows. Keep an eye out for the water, birds, and other wildlife.
Why I like it: If you’re a birder, you can view 100 nesting herons from the South Overlooks during spring.
More info: Click here to visit the website.


Belleplain State Forest

Location: 1 Henkinsifkin Road, Woodbine
Details: Fun fall activities at this NJ park include hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Tree species such as young pine, oak, and Atlantic cedar cover the 20,000 acres of forest. Belleplain is also home to Lake Nummy, a converted former cranberry bog now used for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Why I like it: This spot is great during other seasons, too! For instance, they allow ice-fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing during winter.
COVID-19 notes: Campsites and cabins are unavailable until further notice.
More info: Click here to visit the website.


Cooper River Park

Location: 5300 North Park Drive, Pennsauken
Details:
Walk, run, or bike over five miles of loops to soak in all Cooper River Park has to offer. This NJ park offers nearly 350 acres across Pennsauken, Cherry Hill, Collingswood, and Haddon Township; in addition, the riverside spot boasts hiking trails, bike paths, picnic areas, and a children’s playground. It’s also the perfect place for an evening stroll while glimpsing the Philadelphia skyline.
Why I like it: When the weather is nice, you can rent a canoe or kayak by the hour.
COVID-19 notes: All indoor facilities plus playground and dog areas remain closed. The park is open for individual use only (no group activities) and the parking lot is at 50% capacity.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Parvin State Park

Location: 701 Almond Road, Pittsgrove
Details: At the edge of the Pine Barrens is Parvin State Park, an environment with both pine and swamp forests. You’ll find over 200 kinds of flowering plants, as well as trees like blossoming dogwood, holly, magnolia, and wild azalea.
Why I like it: They allow camping, boating, swimming, picnicking, and hunting here. See the website for details.
COVID-19 notes: They require masks around all open facilities and near other guests. Campsites and cabins are unavailable until further notice.
More info: Click here to visit the website or you can click here to give them a call.


Tall Pines State Preserve

Location: 1705 Glassboro Rd, Sewell
Details: In 2015, a former golf course was converted to Tall Pines, a 110-acre state preserve. The project was a true community effort, launching to prevent the building of a new housing development. Now, this NJ park is a great place for wildlife to thrive and people to enjoy; hike, jog, bird watch, ride a bike, or just take in the lovely scenery of grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands.
Why I like it: Asphalt golf paths remain from the site’s golf course days; which, as a result, makes parts of the preserve handicap accessible.
More info: Click here to visit the website.


Top (Hero) Photo: © Essex County Park Systems / Facebook
Other Photos (in Order):
Jenny Jump State Forest / Website
Natirar Park / Website
Wharton State Forest / Website
Cooper River Park / Website

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