The Garden State's outdoor recreation legacy dates back to the Lenape Native Americans, who navigated the dense forests and fished its abundant rivers. In the 19th century, New Jersey's diverse landscape became a playground for urban dwellers seeking respite from city life.
The Pine Barrens offered hunting and fishing opportunities, while the Delaware Water Gap attracted those interested in hiking and river sports. As industrialization progressed, New Jersey's government recognized the need to preserve these natural spaces. In 1905, they established their first state park, Swartswood State Park, marking an important milestone in conservation efforts.
Today, New Jersey offers an impressive array of outdoor activities across its varied terrain - from saltwater fishing on the Atlantic coast to birdwatching in Cape May or hiking along the Appalachian Trail. Its rich history of outdoor exploration continues to evolve as more adventurers discover its unique offerings.
New Jersey is a smaller agricultural state with $1.3B of ag production, and roughly 81.7% of the land privately owned by farmers and ranchers. The major crops are miscellaneous crops and floriculture. When planning hunting trips to New Jersey on private lands like farms & ranches, it's important to understand some key dates for farmers and ranchers.
Farmers in New Jersey will usually begin planting their crops in late spring, early summer, and then will harvest their crops in the fall, depending on weather.
Popular outdoor activities in New Jersey
The state's diverse landscape, stretching from the Appalachian Trail and the Delaware Water Gap to the sandy shores of the Jersey Shore, presents opportunities for both land and water-based recreation. Hiking enthusiasts will find over 1,000 miles of trails traversing through lush forests, mountain ridges, and along scenic rivers.
For those interested in fishing, New Jersey boasts a rich variety of freshwater and saltwater species. The state's numerous lakes, rivers, and coastal waters are home to bass, trout, flounder, and striped bass among others. Hunting is also popular in New Jersey with deer being the most sought-after game during fall season.
Birdwatchers will not be disappointed either; New Jersey is a major stop on the Atlantic Flyway with over 400 bird species recorded. Kayaking and canoeing are other favored activities with numerous water trails available for exploration. Whether you're an experienced outdoorsman or a novice looking to delve into nature's offerings, New Jersey provides an array of options that cater to all skill levels and interests.
Popular counties for outdoor activities in New Jersey
Sussex County, located in the northwest corner of the state, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here you'll find High Point State Park, home to New Jersey's highest peak and offering stunning views of three states. The park's 50 miles of trails cater to hikers and mountain bikers alike while its pristine lakes are perfect for fishing and boating.
Just south of Sussex is Warren County with its vast wilderness areas and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. This area provides excellent opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and fishing with over 100 miles of scenic river to explore.
If birdwatching or saltwater fishing is more your style, Cape May County at the southern tip of New Jersey cannot be missed. Known as one of North America's best birdwatching spots, Cape May also offers some of the East Coast's best saltwater fishing.
Ocean County is a must-visit for water enthusiasts. With access to both Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this county offers prime spots for boating, fishing, and even surfing.
Whether you're a hiker seeking challenging terrains or an angler in search of new waters to cast your line in - New Jersey's diverse counties have something to offer every outdoor enthusiast.