Explore Outdoor Trails & Nature Spots

Looking to get outside and into nature? Atlantic and Cape May Counties are full of beautiful parks, walking trails, and nature preserves perfect for a family stroll, bird watching, biking, or just soaking up the sunshine. From forested paths at Estell Manor Park to coastal wildlife trails at Cape May Point, there’s something for every kind of outdoor explorer. Many of these spots also include fishing lakes, playgrounds, picnic areas, and paved paths that are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.

Get out there and discover the natural side of the Jersey Shore — no beach tag required!

Atlantic County

• Birch Grove Park – Northfield

A peaceful, wooded park with walking trails, a playground, picnic areas, and fishing ponds. Great for spotting wildlife and enjoying a quiet stroll.

• Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge – Galloway

One of New Jersey’s top birding and wildlife observation destinations. Take the 8-mile Wildlife Drive (also open to walkers and cyclists) for views of salt marshes, forests, and tidal pools. Observation platforms and interpretive signs make it a great educational experience, too.

• EHT Nature Reserve – Egg Harbor Township

Also called the Smart Trail, this natural area includes a paved trail loop around a lake, as well as unpaved woodland paths. It’s stroller- and bike-friendly, with observation decks for wildlife watching and peaceful water views.

• Estell Manor Park – Estell Manor

This expansive county park offers something for everyone: picnic pavilions, two playgrounds, a beach volleyball court, softball and soccer fields, and miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. The North End features mountain biking paths, river access for boating or kayaking, and a group campsite. Don’t miss the Nature Center, where you can view wildlife exhibits, live animals, and learn more about the Atlantic County Park System.

• Heritage Park – Absecon

This small, centrally located park features paved walking trails, a duck pond, picnic pavilions, a playground, and an outdoor amphitheater. It's also home to weekly summer concerts and community events.

• Lake Lenape Park – Mays Landing

This park includes walking trails, picnic pavilions, a playground, and scenic lake views. Boating and fishing are popular, and it’s a great spot for kayaking or a relaxing day by the water.

•  Mill Pond Trails – Mays Landing

Located behind the Atlantic County Library, this short trail loops around a peaceful pond and through shaded woods. Ideal for a quick nature fix or a family walk.

• North Brigantine Natural Area – Brigantine

A protected barrier island ecosystem with beach access, dunes, and tidal marshes. This area is perfect for walking, birdwatching, or just enjoying a quiet stretch of undeveloped shoreline.

• Somers Point Bike Path – Pleasantville to Somers Point

This 7.5-mile paved, multi-use trail connects the towns of Pleasantville, Northfield, Linwood, and Somers Point. It’s ideal for walking, biking, skating, and strollers. The route includes tree-shaded stretches, residential views, and links inland neighborhoods to the waterfront.

• Wharton State Forest & Batsto Village – Hammonton area

The largest tract in the New Jersey State Park System, Wharton offers a rich mix of nature and history. Its easy-to-moderate trails wind through the Pine Barrens, including the famous Batona Trail. Explore Batsto Village, a preserved 19th-century ironworks and agricultural site, including over 30 historic buildings and the Batsto Mansion. The Atsion Recreation Area has a lake with seasonal swimming, a canoe/kayak launch, picnic areas, grills, playgrounds, and a short nature trail.

Cape May County

• Avalon Dunes and Beach Trail – Avalon

A unique combination of maritime forest, dune, and beachfront terrain. This short loop trail (just under a mile) offers scenic views and a quiet escape from the boardwalk crowd. Great for nature photography and spotting birds.

•  Beaver Swamp Fish and Wildlife Management Area – Upper Township

A lesser-known gem with woodlands, wetlands, and early successional habitats. Known for birdwatching and wildlife observation, especially waterfowl and raptors.

• Belleplain State Forest – Woodbine

With over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails, Belleplain is one of the largest natural areas in South Jersey. Enjoy shady pine forests, the freshwater Cedar Lake (kayaking, fishing, swimming in season), picnic areas, and campground facilities. Popular trails include the East Creek and Meisle Cranberry Trails.

• Cape May County Park & Zoo – Cape May Court House

More than just a zoo! The surrounding park features paved and wooded walking trails, fishing ponds, open fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a disc golf course — all free to enter. The zoo is also free and home to over 550 animals.

• Cape May Point State Park – Cape May Point

This coastal park offers three easy-to-follow walking trails (ranging from 0.5 to 2 miles), scenic overlooks, a freshwater marsh, and birding platforms. It’s a prime spot during spring and fall migration seasons.

• Cold Spring/Middle Township Bike Path – Cape May Court House to Rio Grande

A wide, paved, 11-mile multi-use trail perfect for walking, biking, and jogging. Runs through several scenic neighborhoods and woodlands.

• Cox Hall Creek Wildlife Management Area – Villas

Formerly a golf course, this 253-acre area now has 5+ miles of paved and gravel walking and biking trails. A quiet spot for birding, wildlife photography, and picnicking. Especially peaceful in early mornings.

• Dennis Township Bike Path – Dennisville

A flat, paved path that passes through forests and residential neighborhoods — great for families and casual cyclists. Connects schools, parks, and community spaces.

•  New Jersey Lizard Tail Swamp Preserve – Middle Township

A nature preserve with rare plants and wetland ecosystems. Offers short trails for exploring marshland and observing birds and native species. Best enjoyed with insect repellent!

• North Cameron Wildlife Sanctuary (Park North) – Del Haven

A quiet, under-the-radar park with forested trails, small ponds, and benches along the way. Offers peaceful walking paths and a rich habitat for songbirds and small mammals.

• South Cape May Meadows & Higbee Beach – Cape May

These connected preserves offer a mix of dune boardwalks, meadow paths, and secluded beach access. Top-tier for birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations. Trails are generally flat and family-friendly.

• Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary – Stone Harbor

A 21-acre protected area with several short, looped trails through maritime forest and wetlands. Features interpretive signs, benches, and wooden boardwalks. Recognized as a National Natural Landmark.

•  Wyncroft Trail – Lower Township

This 1.5-mile wooded loop features interpretive signs and shaded trails ideal for a short hike or a nature walk with kids. It’s part of the Lower Township Open Space network and offers a quiet alternative to busier parks.