New Jersey's guide to places and events for children, teens and families
For even more info...pick up a copy of New Jersey's Kids Guide FREE at libraries, stores, schools, real estate and professional offices in northcentral New Jersey and at tourist info centers throughout the state for a complete calendar and guide to children and family events, programs and services!

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PLEASE NOTE:
Hours, prices, exhibit and event information are subject to change.
Please call ahead or use the convenient website links to get the latest information prior to your visit.

Biking |  Boating, Swimming & Fishing Holes  |  Family Camping  | Farms/Pick Your Own   |  Hiking & The Great Outdoors  |  Horseback Riding  |  Outdoor Education Centers   |  Parks & Playgrounds  |  The Shore  |  Winter Sports

biking

New Jersey's abandoned railroad lines and historic canal paths make excellent family biking trails as they are virtually flat with mostly cinder and some paved surfaces. See listings under the Great Outdoors for more family biking, hiking, or strolling trails. Search TrailLink, a service provided by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, for detailed information, access points, locations and reviews of rail-trails in New Jersey and throughout the country.

bicycle & pedestrian maps
Bernards Township Engineer's Office, 908-204-3020. Bernards Twp. residents can pick up a map to the township's eight miles of biking and walking trails at the reference desk of the Bernards Twp. Library. Multiple copies are available from the Twp. Engineer's office.

Cranford Township Bicycle Facilities Map is available at the Municipal Building, 908-709-7350.

Morris County Division of Transportation Management, 973-829-8101. A map to multi-use trails, walking trails, bicycle lanes and shared roadways throughout Morris County are available at local libraries, the Morris County Visitors Center, or online at www.morrisdot.org.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) publishes twelve bicycle tour guides including a 238-mile route from High Point
to Cape May. The pocket-size tour guides have been reprinted in color and contain directions and information about parking, food and other local
amenities. You may order copies online or download PDF files at:
www.state.nj.us/transportation/commuter/bike/tours.shtm

Columbia Trail
Rt. 24, Washington Twp., 973-326-7600. Wide earthen trail on the abandoned Jersey Central Railroad bed spans Morris County and Hunterdon County for 16.2 miles and is ideal for bicycling, hiking, jogging, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. Access the trail at West Valley Brook Rd., Rt. 513, Fairview Ave., Naughright Rd., Four Bridges Rd., Bartley Rd. or Schooley's Mountain Rd. in Washington Twp.

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park
Park Office: 145 Mapleton Rd., Princeton, 609-924-5705. 44-mile long canal built in the 1830's to carry coal and industrial goods between Philadelphia and New York City was once a busy waterway, now a quiet and beautiful state park. Canoeing, hiking, bicycling, fishing, horseback riding; cross-country skiing in winter. Access canal paths from small parking areas located at most roads that cross the canal (off Rt. 533) between East Millstone and Rocky Hill in Somerset County. Canoe and kayak rental and Mule Tenders Barracks Museum at Griggstown (www.canoenj.com). In Hunterdon County, access the feeder canal that runs between Frenchtown and Trenton along the Delaware River from Prallsville Mill (Rt. 29, Stockton, 609-397-3586 for program info), Bulls Island or Frenchtown, off Bridge St. Campsites available at Bull's Island Recreation Area, 2185 Daniel Bray Hwy, Stockton, 609-397-2949.
 Call 609-924-5705 for schedule of seasonal nature and history interpretive hikes, bike tours and programs or visit www.dandrcanal.com for schedule and information on canoe, kayak or bike rentals, weekend family programs, school outreach and many free scout programs.
Ongoing
     Nature and History Interpretive Hikes and Programs, Bike Tours, Boy Scout and Girl Scout Badge and Patch Programs, call or visit dandrcanal.com for schedule.

Patriots Path
Map at Morris County Park Commission, 53 E. Hanover Ave., Morristown, 973-326-7600. A developing trail network will link many parks and points of interest in southern Morris County. Currently, there are 20 miles of continuous trails between Speedwell Ave. in Morris Twp. and Rt. 24 in Mendham Twp. with a branch to the New Jersey Brigade Hut site in Bernardsville. Two miles of level, paved path from Lake Rd. to Washington Valley Rd. (with parking at both ends) in Morris Twp. offers excellent family biking, walking and roller blading. The majority of the path is crushed stone/gravel or narrow dirt trails for mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. The path is well marked and follows corridors of the Whippany and Black Rivers winding thru wetlands and forest with lots of wildlife.
   Access the 3.5 mile stretch that runs through the Black River Wildlife Management Area in Chester Twp. from the parking lot on Dover-Chester Rd. or Pleasant Hill Rd.

Sussex Branch/Paulinskill Valley Trail
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Sussex County, 973-786-6445. Abandoned railbeds from the Erie Lackawanna's Sussex branch and NY Susquehanna and Western Railroad provide gentle-grade cinder paths that provide excellent biking for families. The scenery is beautiful and wildlife is abundant along the trail which follows the Paulinskill River and cuts through the Kittatinny Valley.
   The 21 mile Sussex Branch Trail begins at Waterloo Rd. (1 mi. west of Rt. 206 in Byram), runs north where it passes through Kittatinny Valley State Park, intersects the Paulinskill Valley Trail at Warbasse Junction, then ends in Branchville. The 26-mile Paulinskill Valley Trail begins in Sparta, heads southwest through Blairstown and ends near the Delaware River at the Columbia Lake Wildlife Management Area. The multi-use trails are also suited to walking, jogging, horseback riding and cross country skiing. Both trails can be accessed from their beginning and end points and at Warbasse Junction. Other access points for the Paulinskill Valley Trail are: Limecrest Rd. at RR crossing near Eastern Propane in Sparta; Swartswood Lake Rd. (Rt. 622); Paulinskill Lake Rd. (Rt. 614); Stillwater Rd. (Rt. 610); Cedar Ridge-Dixon Rd.; Marksboro Rd. (Rt. 659); and Footbridge Park (off Rt. 94) in Blairstown.

boating, fishing & swimming holes

fishing
Division of Fish, Game & Wildlife, 609-292-2965. Anglers age 16 and older are required to obtain and display a valid New Jersey fishing license to fish the state's fresh waters. For trout fishing, an additional trout stamp is required. Children under 16 and residents over age 70 do not need licenses. Licenses can be purchased from most county and municipal clerks, designated sporting goods stores, or via the Internet at www.njfishandwildlife.com. Call the trout hotline (in April, May and Oct.), 609-633-6765, for recorded information on stocking locations and times. A free fishing weekend when no license is required for fishing New Jersey's public waters is held annually in early June. Visit the state website or TakeMeFishing.org for boating and fishing info and tips.
  Jun Annual Free Free Fishing Days in early June.


boating
For a list of registered and licensed charter and party boat operators on the Jersey shore, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com,
"Fishing-Saltwater" and open "Charter and Party Boat Directory."

Bayshore Discovery Project
2800 High St., Bivalve, Port Norris, 856-785-2060, 800-485-3072, ext. 100. Operates the restored A.J. Meerwald, a Delaware Bay oyster dredgeboat built in 1928. The schooner is now a sailing classroom. Field trips, summer sailing camp, deck tours, sailor for a day program, and public sails from ports in New Jersey, including Liberty State Park, are offered in season.
Jun 12
     Bay Days Folklife & Seafood Festival.
Jun 13
     Bay Days Watercraft & Wildlife Festival.

Bel Haven Canoes & Kayaks
1227 Rt. 542 (GSP Exit 52), Green Bank, 800-445-0953. Canoe, kayak or tube through the Pine Barrens on the calm Batsto, Mullica, Wading and Oswego Rivers.

Belmar Municipal Marina
Rt. 35 (at Shark River), Belmar, 732-681-2266. A large number of party & charter boats make daily half-day & full-day ocean trips for fluke, blackfish, blues, albacore, or shark.

Cranford Canoe Club
250 Springfield Ave., Cranford, 908-482-2400. May-Nov.: Sat. & Sun. 9-8. June-Labor Day: Weekdays 11-8, weekends 9-8. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboats available for paddling on the tranquil Rahway River. No children under 6 in canoes; no children under 3 in kayaks. Concession stand.

Delaware River Family Campground
P.O. Box 142, 100 Rt. 46, Delaware, 908-475-4517, 800-543-0271. E-mail: delawareriver@nac.net. Open April 1­Oct. 31. Located in Warren County near the Delaware Water Gap offering trailer and cabin rentals and trailer and tent campsites. Raft, canoe, kayak and tube trips.

Delaware River Tubing
2998 Daniel Bray Highway, Frenchtown, 908-996-5386. Enjoy a day floating down the Delaware River in a tube, raft, canoe or kayak. A free BBQ meal is included with each rental halfway on the trip at "The Famous River Hot Dog Man." Enjoy your lunch next to a beautiful private island with picnic tables in the water. Pick up a Kids' Guide for discount coupon.

Highlands Natural Pool
180 Snake Den Rd. (I-287N exit 55), Ringwood, 973-835-4299. Open weekends Memorial Day-late June, daily late June-Labor Day. Day passes & memberships. Olympic-size, stream-fed chemical-free pool with stone retaining walls was carved out of the hillside in 1935. Set among poplars and evergreens, it is adjacent to miles of hiking trails in the Norvin Green State Forest and across the field from the Audubon Society's Weis Ecology Center. Children's area; snack stand; picnic tables; volleyball court, basketball court and softball field.

Hunterdon County Park Canoe Trips
908-782-1158. Canoe trips on Hunterdon's waterways spring-fall for beginning and experienced canoers include 21/2 hr. pond paddles to whitewater and birding day trips and camping trips. Custom trips for groups, schools, clubs.

Kittatinny Canoes, Inc.
Dingman's Ferry, PA, 800-FLOAT-KC. Canoeing, kayaking, rafting, tubing on the Delaware River.

Pine Barrens Canoe & Kayak Rental
3260 Rt. 563, Chatsworth, 800-732-0793. Canoe and kayak rentals through the Pine Barrens on the calm waters of the Wading and Oswego Rivers.

Ringwood State Park
1304 Sloatsburg Rd., Ringwood, 973-962-7031. State Botanical Garden open 8-8. Ringwood Manor tours: Wed.-Sun. 10-3. Skylands Manor tours: one Sunday per month March-Nov. Entrance fee Memorial Day-Labor Day: $5 weekdays.
   Encompassing 4,044 acres, Ringwood includes the formal gardens of the New Jersey State Botanical Gardens; Ringwood Manor, a beautiful country house which was once owned by Abram S. Hewitt, America's foremost ironmaster; Skylands Manor, a 44-room mansion built in the 1920s; and spring-fed Shepherd Lake Recreation Area offering boating, swimming, and fishing opportunities. Boat rentals and swimming are offered Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day from 10-6. Hiking and multi-use trails range from easy to difficult, from woodlands to rocky vistas, some connecting the Ringwood and Skylands sections of the park. 7.5 mile mountain bike loop; food concession at Shepherd Lake.

Round Valley Recreation Area
Rt. 78 Exit 18, Rt. 22E (8 mi. east of Clinton on Rt. 22), Annandale, 908-236-6355. Regarded as the foremost trophy trout water in New Jersey, scenic reservoir has small boat launch (10hp max.) or fishing from dam or shore. Hiking and nature trails, wilderness campsites accessible by boat, canoe or backpacking 3-6 miles. Separate swimming area with bathhouse, picnicking and playground.
Selected Interpretive Programs
Programs 10-noon unless noted. Free, registration required.
Jul 4
     Independence, 1776, hear how New Jersey figured large in the epic days of 1776.
Jul 18
     The Raspberry Ramble, bring a container to gather organic respberries. Call to check date the berries ripen.
Jul 25
     Round Valley Beginnings.
Aug 1
     Snakes Alive, snakes of NJ. 10-11:30am.
Aug 15
     Kid's Day­Butterflies & Other Bugs, hike the 2.5 mile Water Trail. All ages welcome.
Aug 29
     Raptors, The Raptor Trust. 11-noon.
Sep 12
     Autumn Bird Walk, 9-11am. Binoculars and field guide suggested.
Sep 26
     Skies Alive: Where are All the Birds Headed? 10-11:30am.

Shawnee River Trips
The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort, One River Rd., Shawnee-on-Delaware, PA, 800-SHAWNEE, ext. 1120. Canoe, raft, kayak, mountain bike rentals; guided fishing trips, family packages and instructional classes; escorted rafting trips. Shuttle services available.

Silas Condict County Park
William Lewis Arthur Dr. (off Kinnelon Rd.), Kinnelon, 973-829-8257. Daily 8am-dusk. Paddleboat and rowboat rentals available weekends and holidays from Memorial Day-Labor Day. Picnic areas, hiking trails, softball fields and lake fishing.

Somerset County Park Commission Putting Course and Paddle Boats
Colonial Park, Franklin Twp., 732-873-8585. Putting Course: April-Oct. Adults $6.50, children/srs. $5. Paddle Boats: Summer thru Labor Day. $5. A sports complex for all ages. The putting course is a golf course in miniature with water features and "sand" traps. Both facilities are accessible for persons with physical disabilities.

Somerset County Park Commission Family Canoe & Kayak Programs
908-766-2489. Spring, summer and fall canoe and kayak trips designed for novices and beginners. For canoe trips, children, ages 6 and over, must be accompanied by an adult and paddlers must be at least 8 yrs. old. Each canoe can accommodate two paddlers and a child passenger. Kayaking programs are designed for adults and children 9 and over. A pool session must be completed before a Kan-U-Kayak session is undertaken. Likewise a Kan-U-Kayak session must be attended prior to a river trip. Call or visit website for schedule of day-long river excursions and new spring schedule.
Jul 18
     Games on the Pond, improve your paddling skills. 10-noon.
Can-U-Cannu?
Introductory canoe workshops teach basic paddling, handling and safety on Branta Pond at the Environmental Education Center. Adult $10, youth $8.
Jun 27
     2-3:30pm.
Jul 11
     4:30-6pm.
Aug 4
     5:30-7pm.
Kan-U-Kayak?
Introductory kayaking workshops teach basic paddling, handling and safety. Must attend 112-hr. pool training session (included in cost) prior to taking this class. Designed for adults and ages 10 and over. Adult $18, youth $14.
Jun 20
     2-4pm.
Jul 11
     9:30-11:30am.
Aug 5
     6:30-8:30pm.
Kids on the Water
A trip on the Passaic River for ages 7-15 with parent. Prior participation in Can-U-Cannu or Kan-U-Kayak classes is required. $10 per person.
Jun 27
     10-noon.
Jul 11
     1-3pm.
Early Birds' Paddle
Two-hour canoe or kayak on the Passaic River. Adult $18, youth $15.
Jun 20, Jul 22, Aug 17, Sep 2
     6:30-8:30am.
Passaic Paddle
Canoe or kayak on the Passaic River through the Great Swamp basin. Trips are intended for beginner to intermediate paddlers. Bring a snack and water. Adult $23, youth/sr. $20.
Jun 16
     5-8pm.
Aug 29
      9-noon.
Sep 8
     4-7pm.
Sep 19
     1-7pm, Hatfield Swamp section.
Evening Delaware and Raritan Canal Paddle
Paddle on the peaceful and still Delaware & Raritan Canal. Bring a bag dinner and money for ice cream. Adult $45, youth $35.
Jun 29
     3-8pm.
Aug 31
     3-8pm.

Spruce Run State Park
Van Syckels Rd. (I-78 to Clinton Rt. 31N), Clinton, 908-638-8572 or 908-638-8573. Seasonal parking fee. Swimming beach and bathhouse, small boat launch for boaters and windboarders, boat and canoe rental (908-638-8234), fishing, camping, picnicking and playground.

Sunrise Lake Beach Club
Lewis Morris Park, Rt. 24, Morris Township, 973-829-8257. Memorial Day thru Labor Day: Weekends & holidays 11-6:45. June 29-July 31: Mon.-Fri. 11-5:45. Aug. 5-Sept. 4: Wed.-Fri. 11-5:45. Season passes available. Summer swimming, fishing, rowboat and paddleboat rentals, beach volleyball, bath/boathouse with restrooms, changing rooms and snack bar. Birthday parties.
   Lewis Morris Park has hiking trails, mountain biking, fitness circuit, softball field, picnic sites and Saturn Kids Kingdom playground in Doe Meadow. Camping for organized groups by advance reservation.

Wawayanda State Park
885 Warwick Turnpike, Hewitt, 973-853-4462. 255-acre lake with a number of explorable islands in the remote, rugged highlands of northern New Jersey. 400-acre park also includes mountain bike trails, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, fishing, beach area with lifeguard, camping, and food concession. Canoe rental available mid-April-late Sept.

family camping
See listings under Hiking & The Great Outdoors for additional references to New Jersey campgrounds. Many state and all national parks offer wonderful interpretive programs on the history and environment of the area, with many offered in the evening for campers.

new jersey state parks
New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry, PO Box 404, Trenton, 08625-0404. 1-800-843-6420, 609-984-0370. Campsites, cabins, group cabins, lean-tos, shelters and yurts may be available depending on the park. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance either in person at the area office; by mail using an overnight application form (available online); or by telephone using a credit card, for a minimum of 2 nights to a maximum of 14 nights. Cabins must be reserved for 7 or 14 consecutive nights Memorial Day through Labor Day or for a 2 night minimum at other times.

A guide to activities and facilities at New Jersey's state parks and forests can be picked up at any state park service office or can be mailed by
calling 1-800-843-6420. Information is also available online at www.njparksandforests.org

Ask for a Passport when visiting a state park, forest or historic site and collect an official passport sticker as you visit sites throughout the state. Each sticker represents a significant feature of the area. Collect a minimum of 10 different stickers to receive a prize.

new jersey campground association
29 Cook's Beach Rd., Cape May Court House, NJ 08210-1723, 1-800-2-CAMP-NJ, 609-465-8444. For a free
copy of the annual Campground & RV Park Guide for New Jersey, call, write or email: request@newjerseycampgrounds.com.

national park service
Individual campsite reservations for National Park Service sites can be made up to 6 months in advance on a rolling basis. For Yosemite, individual campsites can be reserved up to 5 months in advance with inventory going on sale on the 15th of each month. Cabins and lookouts can be reserved up to 6 months in advance for all sites. Group facilities can be reserved up to 12 months in advance. Check the National Park Service reservation website at www.recreation.gov for reservation and campground details. Reservations can be made online, by phone or in person at a site. Phone reservations are taken 10am-12am daily March-Oct; 10am-10pm Nov.-Feb. Call 1-877-444-6777. For customer service, phone 1-888-448-1474. For park information, visit www.nps.gov. Additional information is available at www.nationalparks.org and www.americanparknetwork.com, publishers of visitor guides for national and state parks across America.
   Reservations for lodging at a number of parks can also be made via authorized concessionaires such as Xanterra Parks & Resorts, and Forever Resorts

   Visit reserveamerica.com for campground information, trail maps, guidebooks and to make reservations at many public
and private campgrounds nationwide.
   The Junior Ranger program, available at many National Parks, consists of completing an activity booklet while visiting the park and upon completion, earning a Junior Ranger badge. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/learn/juniorranger.htm. For those who are unable to visit a national park, an on-line Junior Ranger program with activities and rewards can be completed at www.nps.gov/webrangers.

Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA Family Camp
RR1, Dingmans Ferry, 877-SPEERSY, 570-828-2329. Canoeing, sailing, swimming, horseback riding, and hiking in the Pocono Mountains for multi-generational campers available Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends and for a week during the summer.

Delaware River Family Campground
P.O. Box 142, 100 Rt. 46, Delaware, 908-475-4517, 800-543-0271. E-mail: drfc@njcamping.com. Open April 1­Oct. 31. Located in Warren County near the Delaware Water Gap offering trailer and cabin rentals and trailer and tent campsites. Raft, canoe, kayak and tube trips.

Fairview Lake YMCA Family Camp
1035 Fairview Lake Rd., Newton, 973-383-9282. Open to organizations and families during the spring, fall and winter seasons, facilities include modern, winterized cabins with meals in the dining hall or rustic Adirondack shelters with firepits for cooking and campfires (spring and fall only). Seasonal activities include canoeing/boating, archery, swimming, fishing, orienteering and arts and crafts.
Oct 29-31
     Family Weekend.

Frost Valley YMCA
2000 Frost Valley Rd., Claryville, 845-985-2291. Established in 1901 as one of the nation's first summer camps, Frost Valley YMCA is a 6,000 acre residential camping, environmental education and conference center open to individual families, scouts and community groups.

Jenny Jump State Forest
State Park Rd., Hope, NJ, 908-459-4366. Small state campground has 23 private campsites in the woods and 6 shelter cabins each furnished with 2 bunk beds, woodburning stove & small table & benches. Several miles of hiking trails lead thru rugged, rocky terrain with scenic overlooks to Delaware Water Gap and other vistas; convenient to Land of Make Believe. United Astronomy Clubs of NJ Greenwood Observatory open 8-10:30pm Sat. late April thru Oct. for presentations and public observing.
Saturdays Apr-Oct
     Stargazing & Lectures, 8-10:30pm. Beginners and children are welcome.

Kymer's Camping Resort
69 Kymer Road, Branchville, 973-875-3167, 800-526-2267. E-mail: Kymers@njcamping.com. Open April 1­Oct. 31. Located in Sussex County near the Kittatinny Mountains offering trailer and cabin rentals and trailer and tent campsites with water, electric and cable TV hookups.

Mohican Outdoor Center
50 Camp Rd., Blairstown, 908-362-5670. Former boy scout camp on the banks of Catfish Pond, a 60-acre glacial lake, is now operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club in partnership with the National Park Service. Hiking on the Appalachian Trail, fishing, swimming, canoeing, biking, rock climbing, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, campsites and lodging available.
   Outdoor programs for all ages and levels of interest are offered year round for members and non-members. Facilities, available on a space-available basis, include lodge with heated central gathering area, seasonal meals, shower and fireplace; shared bunkroom and private cabins; seven rustic campsites; group campsite; and three tent platforms and ground site overlooking Catfish Pond.
Ongoing
     Weekend Getaways, volunteer-led themed-programs are open year 'round to adult members and non-members.
     Family Adventure Camps & Weekends are offered at AMC locations in New Hampshire during school vacations and summer. Check website for dates.

Panther Lake Camping Resort
6 Panther Lake Road, Andover, 973-347-4440, 800-543-2056. E-mail: pantherlake@nac.net. Open April 1­Oct. 31. Located in Sussex County on Panther Lake offering trailer and cabin rentals and trailer and tent campsites with water, electric and cable TV hookups.

Pocono Environmental Education Center
Rt. 209, Dingmans Ferry, PA, 570-828-2319. Located in a former Pocono resort in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, PEEC offers daytime and overnight nature programs for families. Educational family weekends, nature and birding treks, homeschool programs, workshops for educators, scout/school trips and other special events are held throughout the year.

Wharton State Forest
Batsto Village, Rt. 542, Hammonton, 609-561-0024; Atsion Office, Rt. 206, Hammonton, 609-268-0444; 609-567-4559. Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day: $5 weekends. The largest single tract of land within the New Jersey State Park system, Wharton State Forest is the site of Batsto Village in the Pine Barrens, a former bog iron and glassmaking industrial center from 1766 to 1867, and features miles of unpaved roads for mountain biking and horseback riding, trails for hiking, rivers and streams for canoeing/kayaking, and numerous lakes, ponds and fields for wildlife observation. The 50-mile Batona Trail connects Wharton, Brendan Byrne (formerly Lebanon) and Bass River State Forests. Campsites include tent and trailer sites, wilderness campsites and nine furnished cabins.

YMCA Camp Mason
23 Birch Ridge Rd., Hardwick, 908-362-8217. Family camping weekends are generally offered over Mother's Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day and for Fall Foliage. Fee includes accommodations in heated duplex cabins with full bathrooms and bunk beds, meals, self-directed and staff-led activities, and use of all facilities. Group rentals available at other times.

farms/pick your own

Visit the New Jersey Department of Agriculture's website at www.jerseyfresh.nj.gov for a list of pick-your-own farms, community farmers' markets and a selection of Jersey Fresh recipes.

For information about farms in Sussex County that offer Christmas trees, farm tours, pick-your-own produce, farmstands and harvest activities, visit
www.sussexfarmvisits.com or call 1-800-473-0363.

To locate organic farms near you, consult the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey website.

For a guide to Christmas tree farms throughout the state, visit www.njchristmastrees.org.

Alstede Farms
84 Rt. 513 (Old Rt. 24), Chester, 908-879-7189. Pick-your-own fruits, vegetables and flowers May-Oct. Weekend farm fun activities Fri.-Sun. 1-4pm; summer farm camp; group tours; birthday parties; special events throughout the season.
Fri-Sun
     Farm Family Fun 1-4pm. Pony rides, moonbounce, hayrides, hay pyramid, corn kingdom, farm animals, hen house, homemade ice cream.
Selected Special Events
Aug 7-8
     Customer Appreciation Weekend, free hayrides, sample tasty treats, wine tasting.
Sep 5
     Corn maze opens.
Sep 7
     Back to School Night, corn maze tickets 1/2 price.

Hillview Farms
223 Meyersville Rd., Gillette, 908-647-0957. Daily 10-6 during growing season. Pick your own blueberries, tomatoes, zinnias, peaches, apples, and pumpkins in season. Be sure to call first for availability. Shop in our store for Jersey-fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, fresh baked pies and much more. School tours.

Howell Farm Corn Maze
Valley Rd., 1 mi. west of Howell Living History Farm, Titusville (off Rt. 29 2 mi. south of Lambertville), 609-397-2555. Open weekends Sept.-Nov. plus Columbus Day. Seven-foot tall, walk-throughpuzzle cut into 3-acre cornfield is annual fundraiser to restore 200-yr.-old barn at Howell Farm. On weekends, visitors can enter and find their way out using maps, clues and "mailboxes." Estimated time for walk is 30 min. to 2 hrs.

Longmeadow Farm
561 Blairstown Rd. (Rt. 521), Hope, 908-459-5351. Open weekends and Mon. holidays 9-5 starting Labor Day weekend. Berry picking starts late July. No admission fees or membership required.
Free parking. Schools and groups scheduled by appointment.
     Pick your own raspberries, blackberries, apples and pumpkins. 14 great apple varieties on easy pick dwarf trees. Take a spooky hayride to the pumpkin patch. Farmstand features our own honey, a huge selection of jams and jellies and no-sugar-added fruit spreads and fruit butters.

Norz Hill Dairy Farm & Market
116 South Branch Rd., Hillsborough, 908-371-COWS. Pumpkin patch, farm tours, corn maze, and pony rides late Sept. thru Oct. Haunted trail open Oct. weekends. Market stand. School tours.

Parks Farms LLC
Quality Fruits and Vegetables Since 1906
525 Rt. 24, Chester, 908-879-5509. Stop by the market from now until Christmas Eve. Our farm fresh produce includes strawberries, peaches, apples, nectarines, sweet corn, squash, melons, jellies, jams and more.
   Fall festivities take place the last weekend in Sept. and all weekends in Oct. including Columbus Day. Enjoy a free weekend hayride to the fun corn maze and pumpkin-picking. Christmas trees, wreaths and hand-tied bows are here starting Thanksgiving weekend. Join us on Facebook at Parks Farms.

Riamede Farm
122 Oakdale Rd. (turn north onto Oakdale at the Exxon on the eastern end of Main St. /Rt. 513), Chester, 908-879-5353. Daily 9-4:30pm, seven days a week in Sept. and Oct. only. Pick-your-own apples in a scenic old orchard. Pick your own pumpkins, some still on the vine, in our pumpkin patch. Enjoy the fall colors on our 68-acre farm. Cider, warm donuts and free hayrides on weekends. 30+ varieties of apples, by the pound. School trips.
Sept -Oct
     Pick Your Own Apples, Pick Your Own Pumpkins, 7 days a week 9-4:30pm.

Stony Hill Orchards
8 Rt 24, Chester; 15 North Rd., Chester; 908-879-2908 or 908-879-2696. Open 9-6 seven days a week. Pumpkin, apple and strawberry picking, farm animals, hayrides, corn maze, fresh produce,baked goods.

Terhune Orchards
330 Cold Soil Rd., Princeton, 609-924-2310. Pick-your-own May to Oct. from berries, cherries and flowers to peaches, apples and pumpkins. Read and Explore and Read and Pick programs for preschoolers and parents are held year-round for $5 per child. Farm store, farm yard and farm trail open to the public daily all year. School and group tours by appointment; birthday parties; camp; annual special events.
Selected Special Events
Jun 27
      Firefly Festival, nature activities, music, food. 5-9pm.
Jul 10-11
     Blueberry Bash, pick-your-own, wagon ride, music, activities, blueberry treats. 10-5. Free.
Jul & Aug
     Discovery Walks on the Farm Trail, 1.5 hr. educational tour with snack and craft can be scheduled for groups of 10 children or more.
Jul 12-16, Jul 19-23
     Farm Summer Camp, for ages 7-10. 9-3:30, limited space, call early.
Aug 7
     Pam's Annual Freezing, Canning & Preserving Class, 10-11. Free, reservations.
Sept 18-19
     Apple Day, farm activities, entertainment, music, pick-your-own apple & pumpkins. Admission $5, under 3 free.
Sept 25-Oct 24
     Fall Family Fun Weekends, pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, entertainment, food, live music. 10-5. No admission.
Read and Pick Children's Program
Children's program combines picking fruit or other farm activities and listening to a themed story. For ages preschool to 8 yrs. with adult. 9:30 & 11am. $7 per child, pre-registration requested.
Jun 15
     Cherries.
Jun 29
     Monarchs, Swallowtails & Honeybees­Oh My!
Jul 13
     Blueberries.
Jul 27
     Vegetables.
Aug 10
     Peaches
Aug 24
     Pears.
Aug 31
     Apples.
Sept 14
     Flowers.
Sept 28
     Scarecrows.
Oct 5
     Pumpkins.

Valley Shepherd Creamery
50 Fairmount Rd., Long Valley, 908-876-3200. Visitors can learn about sheep dairy farming as practiced in Europe for the last 4,000 years. 112 hr. creamery tours are given 1 & 4pm on weekends in spring and summer. Cheesemaking workshops are offered on the 3rd Sun. of the month. Participants return 2 mos. later to pick up aged cheese. Farm parties; special events.
Selected Special Events
Mar-Nov
     Cheesemaking Classes, book online.
May
     Annual Shearing Festival.
Spring
     Newborn Lamb Tours.
Spring-Summer
     Milk & Cheese Tours, 1.5-hr. tour offered at 1& 4pm on weekends in spring and summer.
Oct
     Autumn Leaves Cheese Festival, book online, limited admission.

Well-Sweep Herb Farm
205 Mt. Bethel Rd., Port Murray, 908-852-5390. Mon.-Sat. 9-5. Call first Jan.-March. Garden paths lead through a formal herb garden and display gardens including butterfly, medicinal, perennial and rock gardens. Visitors are welcome to picnic and visit farm animals. Group tours May-Oct.; guest speaker program; special events; craft/horticulture workshops are offered. Gift shop.
Apr-Feb
   Lectures & Workshops for Adults, make handcrafted decorations and projects.
Nov 26-27
     Christmas in the Country Open House, winter greenhouse tour, craft class, gift shop. 9-5.

Wightman's Farms
Route 202 (5 mi. south of Morristown/exit 30B Rt. 287), Morristown, 973-425-9819. Store open every day 8am-6pm featuring all varieties of apples, fruits and vegetables, fresh baked pies, donuts, gourmet foods and fresh apple cider made in our own mill. Starting weekends Aug. 7, pick your own apples thru Oct., pick your own peaches thru peach season (9am-5pm, family membership required) and explore the mazes. Starting Sept. 11, bring the family for a scenic hayride and pick your own pumpkin. Sat. & Sun. 10am-5pm. No reservations required. Suitable for all ages. Weekend mazes and kiddie corn pit. Group & organization hayrides by appointment only during weekdays beginning Sept. 13. If inclement weather, please call first.

Williams Nursery & The Gift House
524 Springfield Ave., Westfield, 908-232-4076. Hayrides and pick your own pumpkins in Oct. Call for times and to book your school now. Gift shop complete with everything from Yankee Candles to Christopher Radko Ornaments.

cut your own Christmas tree
For a guide to Christmas tree farms throughout the state, visit www.njchristmastrees.org.

Alger
7 Beacon Light Rd., Tewksbury, 908-832-2298.
Black Oak Farm
9 Black Oak Lane, Asbury, 908-537-4133.
Carriage House Tree Farm
39 Newton Ave., Branchville, 973-948-5102.
Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree Farm
231 Adamic Hill Rd., Milford, 908-995-4365.
Cherryville Farms
Quakertown/Cherryville Rd. at W. Sidney Rd., Franklin Twp., 908-806-4580.
Cole's Country Tree Farm
478 Country Rd. 579, Alexandria Twp., 908-735-5706.
Cook's Evergreen Farm
7 Railroad Lane, Whitehouse Station, 908-534-2260.
Country Heritage Farm
129 Plains Rd, Augusta, 973-875-5590.
Deerfield Farm
14 Pulaski Rd., Whitehouse Station, 908-534-2523.
Dixiedale Farm
Hillside Ave. & River Rd., Chatham, 973-635-2097.
Evergreen Farm
4 Bass Lane, Lebanon, 908-236-9550.
Giamarese Farms
155 Fresh Pond Rd, E. Brunswick, 732-821-9494.
Hidden Hollow Farm
18 Spring Lane, Washington, 908-689-5678.
Holiday Tree Farm
44 Augusta Hill Rd., Augusta, 973-948-7488.
Holly Bough Plantation
88 Cole Rd., Whitehouse Station, 908-534-2622.
Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop
848 Rt. 524, Allentown, 609-259-0720.
Lantier Tree Farm
163 Dey Grove Rd., Monroe Twp., 732-446-9799.
Mt. Bethel Christmas Tree Farm
41 Mt. Bethel Rd., Washington, 908-852-5811.
Perfect Christmas Tree Farm
999 Rt. 22, Phillipsburg, 908-387-1225.
Plut's Christmas Tree Farm
220 Flocktown Rd., Long Valley, 908-852-6669.
Rolling Green Farm
61 Hacklebarney Rd., Chester, 908-879-4497.
Shale Hills Farm
98 Pond School Rd., 973-875-4231.
Village Tree Farm
8 Meyersville Rd., Green Village, 908-236-9202.
Wyckoff's Tree Farm
Mile Marker 39, Rt. 519, Belvidere, 908-475-4508.

Hiking & The Great Outdoors

county and state park calendars
· Essex County Park Commission

· Hunterdon County Park Commission

· Morris County Park Commission
  Trail maps available by logging onto www.morrisparks.net.

· New Jersey State Parks Calendar of Events,

· Somerset County Park Commission
  908-722-1200 x351.

· Union County Parks & Community Renewal
  908-558-4079.

hiking
The website for the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, a federation of groups and individuals dedicated to maintaining marked hiking trails and protecting related open space, provides information about easy hikes, Hikes of the Week, and offers regional trail maps and books for sale.

Allaire State Park
Rt. 524 (exit 98 GSP), Wall Township, 732-938-2371. Nature Interpretive Center: 732-938-2003. Parking fee. Site of historic Allaire Village and the antique steam trains of the Pine Creek Railroad (see Historic Sites), Allaire State Park also features canoeing and fishing on the Manasquan River and trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and cross country skiing. Nature programs are offered throughout the year. Facilities include a Visitor Center/museum, food concession, and campsites.

Black River Park
973-326-7600. Located in Chester Township, Black River Park is a unique linear park with beautiful hiking trails through Black River Gorge connecting the four cultural sites of Cooper Mill, Kay Environmental Center, Bamboo Brook, and Willowwood Arboretum. Trails can be accessed from any of these sites. From Cooper Mill, the Black River Trail (blue blaze) follows the Black River for 2.3 miles to Kay Environmental Center. The red Conifer Pass Trail travels another 1.8 miles from Kay to Bamboo Brook Trail. Maps available from Morris County Park Commission.

Cheesequake State Park
Exit 120 Garden State Parkway, Matawan, 732-566-2161. Interpretive Center: 732-566-3208. Open daylight hours year-round. A unique variety of plant and animal life is found in this park's open fields, salt and freshwater marshes, white cedar swamp, pine barrens and hardwood forest. Three main trails (longest is 3.5 mile green) crisscross the park. Exhibits, nature programs and trail guides are available at Interpretive Center. Hooks Creek Lake features a bathing beach with lifeguards in summer (no flotation devices permitted). Bathhouse, concession stand, playground, short boardwalk to crabbing bridge nearby. Fishing in the lake and blue claw crabbing in Hooks Creek can be fun in late summer. 53 campsites are located across the parkway.
Selected Interpretive Programs
Park entrance fee. Pre-registration required.
Jun-Sep
     Kayak Eco Tours on Cheesequake Creek. Fee.
Jun 26
     Get Outdoors! and into Family Arts in the Park, families with children ages 10 & up. 10-2pm.
Jul 25
     Yellow Trail Hike, 1pm.
Aug 8
     Nature Hike, 1pm.
Aug 29
     Osprey Talk, 1pm.
Sep 19
     Nature Hike, 1pm.
Sep 26
     Gerry's World of Snakes, 1pm.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Rt. 80W, stop at Kittatinny Point Visitor Center (off 80) for info & map. Dingmans Falls & Visitor Center is located off Rt. 209 near milepost 14 in Dingmans Ferry, PA. Visitors Centers are open 9-5 Memorial Day Sat.-Labor Day, closed Tues. & Wed. Open weekends and some weekdays in fall. The road to Dingmans Falls and Visitor Center is closed when icy conditions set in. Visitor Services: 570-426-2452.
   Short guided walks leave from Visitor Centers. Jr. Naturalist & Jr. Ranger materials are available. Consult www.nps.gov/dewa for a schedule of ranger-guided activities and children's materials. Pick up a park map to access boat and canoe launch points and trailheads for the Appalachian Trail and Mt. Tammany.
   In summer, enjoy a leisurely day tubing, canoeing, or rafting the Delaware River. Old sneakers help for walking on river bottom. Access the river from many points along Old Mine Rd. in NJ or from PA. River guide available at Visitor Centers. Fishing, hiking, bicycling; campsites available on the river at Worthington State Forest, 908-841-9575. Just north of Worthington Park headquarters is the Douglas Trail to Sunfish Pond, a natural glacier lake atop the Kittatinny Ridge.
   In winter, two major areas are maintained, when conditions permit, for beginner and advanced cross country skiers. Slateford Farm Ski Trail in PA (off 80) offers 5 miles of gentle trails. Blue Mountain Lakes Trail in NJ offers 8 miles for varied abilities. www.nps.gov/dela
Ongoing
     Adventure Guide for Teens, a 16-page introduction to the Appalachian Trail within the park is available at Visitor Centers or online. A patch is available if successfully completed.
     Junior Naturalist patch can be earned by completing a 4-page activity sheet available at Visitor Centers or online.
     Junior Park Ranger badge and patch can be earned after completing a 16-page Junior Ranger Explorer Notebook, available at Visitor Centers or by mail.
Friends of the Delaware Water Gap
Non-profit organization devoted to park conservancy sponsors lecture series and family events, 570-426-2435 x2510.

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Headquarters: 152 Pleasant Plains Rd., Harding Twp., 973-425-1222. Open Mon.-Fri. 8-4:30, Sun. hours spring-fall. Trails open dawn to dusk. More than 200 species of birds are found in the Great Swamp. 10 miles of trails leave from the trailhead at the northeast end of White Bridge Rd. & Laurel Trail. The Wildlife Observation Center off Long Hill Rd. has information center and short 1 mile trail with blinds for observing wildlife. Even if you don't find any unusual birds, this easy walk is always good for spotting turtles, frogs, snakes, etc. from the boardwalk.
Friends of Great Swamp
Helen S. Fenske Visitor Center, 197 Pleasant Plains Rd., Harding Twp., 973-425-9510. Sat. & Sun. 11-5. Closed July and Aug. except for special events. Stop in for maps, information and visit the Discovery Den for children, bookstore and gift shop. Friends of Great Swamp offers public and members-only programs, special events, group tours for schools, scouts, youth and adult organizations (908-647-2508), outreach speakers (973-635-1083), and Swamp in a Box loan program (908-647-5740).
Ongoing
     Junior Refuge Manager Activity Guides for ages 5-13 sell for $2 each. After guide is complete, child will receive a certificate and badge.
Selected Special Events
2nd Sun
     Second Sundaywith Friends, nature programs, crafts and guided walks, 1:30-3:30pm. Registration not required.
Jul 11
     Dragonflies of the Swamp.
Aug 8
     Bird Banding at Great Swamp.
Sep 11
     11th Annual Fall Festival & Rummage Sale, interpretive walks, activities and crafts for kids, music, food, more. Visitor Center, 10-3.
Sep 12
     Lichens.
Great Swamp Watershed Association
568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown, 973-538-3500. Membership-based nonprofit organization protects drinking water and preserves land in the Great Swamp watershed region. Educational programs for individuals and families, in-school programs and educators workshops are offered.

Hacklebarney State Park
119 Hacklebarney Rd., Long Valley (from Chester, 24W 3 mi. to park entrance), 908-879-5677, 908-638-6969. Parking fee Memorial Day to Labor Day. Hacklebarney surrounds a gorge of unusual beauty where two feeder streams, Trout Brook & Rheinhart Brook, flow into the Black River. 5 miles of hiking trails, many picnic facilities throughout the gorge equipped with charcoal grills. Waters, stocked with trout, provide good fishing. Topography is rugged, wear comfortable walking shoes. Kids love to climb on the huge, flat boulders that line the ravine to the river.

High Point State Park
1480 Rt. 23, Sussex County, 973-875-4800. Interpretive Center: 973-875-1471. Cross Country Ski Center, 973-702-1222. Hike to the highest point in New Jersey along the Kittatinny Mountain ridge and Appalachian Trail. Panoramic views of New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Camping, fishing, swimming (with bathhouse), boat launch, picnicking, food concession, playground, nature center.
   In winter, a cross country ski center features 15 km of groomed trails, 6.5 km with snow making equipment. Lodge, lessons, equipment sales and rentals, ice skating on Lake Marcia.
Ongoing
     Junior Naturalists, after school adventures for ages 6-9; Fledgling Naturalists, for ages 3-5 with adult partner; Homeschool Naturalists, enrichment activities for homeschoolers ages 6-10. Call for upcoming dates and times.

Huber Woods Park
Brown's Dock Rd. (off Navesink River Rd.), Locust Section, Middletown, 732-872-2670. Hands-on environmental center, short nature loop and Discovery Path and guide for children. Six miles of wooded trails for walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.

Mahlon Dickerson Reservation
955 Weldon Rd., Jefferson Twp., 973-697-3140. Visitors Center at Saffin Rock-Rill Area. Morris County Park system's largest park encompasses more than 3,000 acres with over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. Softball fields, picnic facilities, radio-controlled car track and field archery course. Camping is available year round in 18 wooded trailer sites, 8 tent sites with platforms, or 4 Adirondack shelters. Shower and restrooms. Reservations recommended. Fishing, ice skating, and cross country skiing in winter. Canoe rentals 1-4pm weekends in July and Aug. on Saffin Pond, life jackets provided. Private boats or canoes are not permitted.

South Mountain Reservation
Access trails from Locust Grove (Glen Ave. & Lackawanna Place) in Millburn, Elmdale entrance off Brookdale Dr., Turtle Back Zoo, or Summit Field off Crest Drive. 2,048 acre park with twenty miles of carriage roads used for jogging, walking, horseback riding and cross country skiing. Five trails provide 19 miles of hiking paths. Turtle Back Trail (orange blazes) is an easy day hike of 21/2 miles roundtrip. Lenape Trail (follow yellow blazes) leads through deep woods, Maple Brook cascades and Hemlock Falls (after plenty of rain or snow). Maps available from Essex County at 973-268-3500, ext. 238, or at www.somocon.org.
  The South Mountain Conservancy, a volunteer organization dedicated to preserving and promoting wise use of the Reservation, offers group guided hikes for individuals and families with children 10 and older who are strong walkers. Designated hikes are designed for younger children. Access website for current schedule.

Union County Watchung Reservation
Coles Ave. & New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 908-789-3670. 13+ miles of marked hiking trails include the 11-mi. Sierra loop (maps available at Visitor Center). 1845 Feltville/Deserted Village, fishing at Surprise Lake, Seeley's Pond and Blue Brook which are stocked with trout annually. Picnic facilities, ballfield, playground, horseback trails, Trailside Nature & Science Center.

Voorhees State Park
Rt. 513 (Rt. 78 exit 17 to Rt. 31N), Glen Gardner, 908-638-6969. Hiking through woods, to scenic overlooks and along Willoughby Brook, picnicking, playground, ballfield, 2 small fishing ponds for children (catch & release), 50 wooded campsites within walking distance to New Jersey Astronomical Association Observatory open to the public June-Oct. on Sat. night 8:30-10:30pm and Sun. 2-5pm, weather permitting. Call 908-638-8500 for observatory schedule.
Sat & Sun
     Observatory open to the public, Sat. 8:30-10:30pm, Sun. 2-5pm June-Oct.
Selected Interpretive Programs
Free, pre-registration required.
Jul 10, Aug 14, Sep 11
     NJAA Youth/Family Night, 6:30pm.
Aug 7
     Family Campout & Star Party, 8:30pm.

horseback riding

Center Line Farm
245 Old Turnpike Rd., Route 517, Tewksbury, 908-832-9448. Mon.-Sun. Summer and winter ride from 9am-9pm in our spacious indoor arena. Specializing in English riding (pleasure, jumping and dressage) with gentle attention to children and beginner adults. Private or small group lessons. We are known for our very supportive and friendly family atmosphere. Call for more information or to visit our farm in beautiful Tewksbury. Lesson package includes four half-hr. private lessons for $170. Summer & Christmas camps. Now offering moonlight, beach rides, home shows, year end banquet and more! mjsalvetti@yahoo.com.

Palermo Show Stable
1555 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster, 908-719-7500. Info@palermoshowstable.com. Tues.-Sun. 8am-1pm, 3-6pm, after hours by appointment only. Horseback riding lessons, ages 6 to 65, beginner to advanced. Summer day camps, ages 6 to 16 and youth camp ages 3-5. Boarding, training, showing, horse sales and leases, and monthly horse shows.

River Edge Farm
1575 River Rd. East, Bedminster, 908-420-1274. English riding lessons for children and adults. Year round. Also offers riding summer camp for girls. See listing under Camps. For more info visit the website.

Somerset County Park Commission Lord Stirling Stable
256 S. Maple Ave., Basking Ridge, 908-766-5955. Office hours 9am-5pm seven days a week. Lord Stirling Stable offers English horseback riding, group lessons from beginner through jumping levels, and several special events year round for all ages. Riding on 14 miles of well groomed trails or in the large indoor or outdoor rings. Lead line available by the half hour for children eight years old or younger who can sit and hold on by themselves. Pony parties.
Jun 20
     Father's Day Ride, opportunity for non-equestrian family members to join the rider in the family on a leisurely trail ride.
Ongoing
     Horse Fan Badge, 2-hr. program for girl scouts ages 9 and older. 908-766-5955.
     Lead Line, on pony or horse, half-hour sessions available daily.
     Introductory Rides for ages 12 & up. Brief lesson followed by trail ride. Registration must be done in person, begins 2 wks. before each ride.

Union County Watchung Stables
1160 Summit Lane, Mountainside, 908-789-3665. Adult and children's troops, private lessons, recreational riding in the ring on an hourly and half-hourly basis, guided rides, horseback rides with lead lines for riders under the age of 9, handicapped riding program, and summer equestrian camp for ages 9-17. Barn and facility is open for visits during business hours. Birthday party room.
Ongoing
     Horse Fan Badge, one-time session for junior level girl scouts.
     Just the Two of Us, 30 min. program introduces adult and child under the age of 9 to the world of horses and riding. Spring and fall sessions, limited to four families.
     Learn About Horses, one-hour group program includes tour of the facility and learning about care of horses. $40 per group of 10-25. Lead line horses may be added for children under the age of 9.
     Brownie "Try-It" Program, 11/2 hr. non-riding program. $50 per group.
     Kiddie Clinics, mini-clinics designed for ages 5-8 to learn about horses.
Sun
     Private Group Rides available to groups of ten or more over the age of 9 on Sunday a.m.
Jun 20
     Father's Day Ride.

outdoor education centers

New Jersey State Parks offer a variety of interpetive programs, hikes, bike, canoe and kayak trips at different parks throughout the season. The Park Service publishes a calendar twice a year for Apr.-Sept. and Oct.-Mar. available at Visitor Information Centers, State Park offices or online at www.njparksandforests.org. Or contact the specific park of interest for their most current schedule. See State Park listings under other Outdoors categories for selected interpretive programs.

www.state.nj.us/dep/seeds
Visit the SEEDS (State Environmental Education Directory) website for an online catalog of resources available through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Field trips and outreach programs for schools, groups, families and organizations are available.

Camden Children's Garden
3 Riverside Dr., Camden, 856-365-8733. Wed.-Fri. 10-4, Sat. & Sun. 10-5. Adults $6, ages 3-11 $5, 2 & under free. Modest fee for train ride and carousel. Combination ticket available with New Jersey State Aquarium.
   Four-acre interactive garden includes a butterfly garden, railroad garden, dinosaur garden, maze, picnic garden, treehouse, amphitheater, carousel and storybook gardens. Visitors can enter the Butterfly House to observe 200 Monarch and Swallowtail butterflies in a lush tropical environment. School Festivals; party packages; gift shop.
Weekend Family Festivals
12-4pm. Educational activities, games and crafts while supplies last.
Jun 12-13
     StrawBEARy Surprise & Nature in Art Day.
Jun 26-27
     Festival de Aibonito, Puerto Rico.
Jul 10-11
     BlueBEARy Blast & Celebrate NJ Day.
Jul 24-25
     Storybook Celebration.
Aug 14-15
     Peach, Princess & Pirate Party.
Aug 28-29
     Chocolate & Vanilla Festival.
Sep 11-12
     Hefty Harvest & Scary Scarecrows.
Sep 25-26
     Faeries & Wizards Festival.
Oct 9-10
     Mum Madness & Pumpkin Parade.
Oct 23-24
     Goblins in the Garden.
Nov 13-14
     Train Festival.
Special Events
Oct 31
     Safe Trick or Treat, 12-4pm.
Nov 27-Dec 18
     Holiday Festival of Lights, Fri. & Sat. nights.

Cora Hartshorn Arboretum & Bird Sanctuary
324 Forest Dr. S., Short Hills, 973-376-3587. Stone House Museum: Mon.-Fri. 9-5, Sat. 10-3. Summer: Mon.-Fri. 9-noon, closed Sat. Closed school vacations, state holidays and August. Grounds open daylight hours year 'round. 16 acres of woodland with 3 miles of walking trails. Adult day trips and hikes; youth & family nature programs for ages 2-grade 8; summer discovery program for ages 4-5; scouting programs. Membership is required for youth programs. Registration on first come first served basis with preference to Millburn Twp. residents.

Duke Farms
80 Rt. 206S, Hillsborough, 908-722-3700. 2,740 acre estate and wildlife sanctuary was developed by tobacco and hydropower magnate James Buchanan Duke beginning in 1893. The estate will be open on a limited basis until spring of 2010 while undergoing renovation and construction to refocus its operations as an environmental showcase and learning center. New partnerships with the New Jersey Audubon Society, Raritan Piedmont Wildlife Habitat Partnership, and the Rutgers University School of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Office of Continuing Education will enable expanded environmental programs for families and professionals and increase self-guided public access over time. Indoor display gardens are closed. Consult website for latest schedule of nature programs and tours.
Open
Walk on the Wild Side, 1.25- mile self-guided nature walk is free and open to the public Fri.-Sun. from 10-3. Call ahead for information on trail availability.
     Moonlight Walk on the Wild Side, 8-11pm on select dates. Free, check in at Visitor Center.
Jun 12, 26, Jul 10, 24, Aug 7, 21, Sep 11, 25, Oct 9, 23
Apr-Oct
     Scenic Bike Tours (Saturdays 8-10am) and Twilight Bike Tours (select dates), bring your own bikes and gear for a 2-hr. tour of the estate. Adults $10, children $5.
Wonder Walk for Families
Space is limited, advance registration required for all programs. $8 per person, $5 for New Jersey Audubon Society members, maximum $20 per family.
Jun 26
     Food Webs in the Stream, grades K-6. 10-12.
Jul 24
     Food Webs of the Meadow, K-6. 1:30-3.
Aug 24
     Full Moon Hike, grades K-6. 7:30-10pm.
Selected Special Events
Jul 10
     Raising Moths & Butterflies for Families, 1-3pm. Advance registration required.

Essex County Environmental Center
West Essex Park, 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 973-228-8776. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. Environmental Center open Mon.-Fri. 9-5, Sat. 10-2, closed holidays. Serves as a central headquarters for most of the environmental groups in Essex County including the Sierra Club, Audubon Society (973-226-6082), Master Gardeners, 4-H Club, Rutgers Cooperative Extension and others. Library; natural history exhibits; education programs for toddlers to adults; center-based and outreach programs; scout programs; birthday parties; summer day camp.
Parks, 9-11am.
Ongoing
     Little Explorers Nature Program, child and caregiver class explores nature through stories, walks and crafts. Ages 21/2­5.
     Nature Programs for ages 5-11.
    Bug Club, year round program for ages 6-10 with a passion for insects.
     Rock 'n Roll Geology Club, monthly club for ages 7-12.
     Green Kids Club, monthly meetings year round for ages 7-14.
     4-H Clubs, a variety of themed clubs for children in grades 1-8.
Ongoing
     New Jersey Audubon Society Bird Watching Field Trips, for beginners to experts. Two-hour weekday trips are free. 3-hour or remote trips are $8 non-members, $6 members. Space is limited, call 973-226-6082 to register.
Thru Sep 15
     2010 Essex County Nature Photography Contest, open to all.
Selected Family Programs
Advance registration required for all programs. Fees are per child/per adult.
Jun 19
      Lenape Day, 10:30-1:30. Child $6, adult $8.
Jul 5-9, Jul 12-16, Jul 19-23, Jul 26-30, Aug 2-6, Aug 9-13
     Nature Explorers Summer Camps.
Jul 8
     Field Sketching, ages 8 & up. 4-6pm. Child $6, adult $8.
     Butterfly Tent Safari, all ages. 10:30-1:30. $6/$8.
Jul 13
     Bringing Back the Legend: Cougar Recovery in Eastern North America, 7-9pm. $6/$8.
Jul 20
     4-H The Power of the Wind-Explore Wind Energy, ages 8 & up. 4-6pm.
Jul 24
     Mosaic Flower Pot, ages 9 & up. 11-12:30pm. $25.
Jul 26
     Tomato Gardening, 7-8:30pm. $6/$8.
Jul 27
     4-H Family Astronomy Program­Night Sky Adventure, 6-8pm. $10 per family.
Jul 31
     Summer Strawberry Skin, ages 10 & up. $10.
Aug 3
     4-H Family Financial 411, ages 8 & up. 4-6pm. $10 per family.
Aug 7
     Baking with Herbs, 10-12pm. $6/$8.
Aug 10
     Twilight Hike, all ages. 7-9pm. $6/$8.
Aug 17
     4-H Powerpoint Panache, ages 8 & up. 4-6pm. $10.
Aug 21
     Pebble Pets, ages 4 & up. 10:30-12. $6/$8.
Sep 6
     Nature Explorer One Day Camp, grades 1-3. 9:30-3:30pm. $60 per child.
Oct 2
      6th Annual Octoberfest Fall Family Celebration, 11-4. Free.
Oct 11
     Earth Skills One-Day Camp, grades 3-5. 9:30-3:30pm. $60 per child.
Nov 4-5
     Scouting Day, work on belt loops and pins with environmental staff. 10:30-2:30. $6.
Selected New Jersey Audubon Programs
Programs are designed for children in grades K-5, unless noted. Registration required, 973-226-6082. $7, $5 members.
Sep 9
     Grover Cleveland Park Holiday Hike, 9:30-11.
Sep 11
     Backyard Birds & Feeders Family Program, 10:30-noon.
Oct 11
     Branch Brook Park Holiday Hike, 9:30-11.
Nov 4
     South Mountain Reservation Holiday Hike, 9:30-11am.
Nov 13
     Turkey Time Family Program, 10:30-noon.
New Jersey Audubon Wonder Walks
For children ages 18 mos. to 5 yrs. and their caregivers. Children should be walking or in a carrier, strollers are not recommended. 10-11am. $7, $5 members.
Sep 13
     Grover Cleveland Park Wonder Walk.
Oct 14
     Branch Brook Park Wonder Walk.
Nov 8
     South Mountain Reservation Wonder Walk.
Selected Adult Programs
Jun 26, Jul 27
     Watercolors, ages 16 & up. 10-12. $40.
Jun 19, Jul 17, Aug 14
     Hands-on Composting, adults. 10-1pm. $8.
Jun 28, Jul 26, Aug 23
     New Jersey Woodturners, learn to turn. 7-10pm. $8, free for members.
Jun 28
     Grow Your Own Salad, 7-8:30pm. $8.
Jul 24, Jul 31, Aug 6, 13
     Summer Yoga Class, 9:30-10:45am. $8.
Aug 23
     Preparing for Next Year's Green Lawn, 7-8:30pm. $8.

Frelinghuysen Arboretum
53 E. Hanover Ave. (Rt. 511), Morris Township, 973-326-7600. Haggerty Education Center: Mon.-Sat. 9-4:30, Sun. noon-4:30. Grounds: 8am-dusk. Beautifully maintained estate known for its rose garden, lilac collection and ideal setting for informal picnics. Self-guided trail booklets and children's walking tour map available in the Mansion, headquarters for the Morris County Park Commission. Horticulture programs for adults, children and scouts, 973-326-7603.
Friends of Frelinghuysen Arboretum
Volunteer organization dedicated to the promotion and maintenance of Morris County Park Commission's horticultural facilities sponsors adult and children's programs, plant sales and other events. Advance registration required for all programs, 973-326-7603.
Ongoing
     Backpack Field Trips, available to Morris County school teachers, provide tools to guide students on a self-paced tour of the arboretum.
     Branching Out, spring and summer sessions for ages 5-13 to learn about gardening, botany, horticulture. Call 973-631-5004 for more information.
Jul 6-Aug 19
     Summer Session.
     Garden Sprouts, introduces children ages 3-kindergarten to plants and nature.
     Scout Programs, workshops for all girl scout levels, cub scouts and boy scouts. 973-631-5004.
Selected Events
Jul 25
     Fairy Day, families build a fairy home. 1pm. $25, pre-registration required.
Aug
     Fairy Homes on display through Aug.
Aug 27
     Wall-E, family movie night. 7:30pm, arboretum opens at 6pm. Picnics welcome. $10 per car.
Sep 19
     New Jersey Mycological Association Fungus Fest.
Dec 4-12
     Gingerbread Wonderland, display of gingerbread houses made by the community.

Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center
247 Southern Blvd., Chatham Township, 973-635-6629. Visitor Center open daily 9-4:30. Interactive exhibit area and library. Pick up a self-guiding trail booklet for the 2 miles of trails and boardwalks that lead through wooded and swamp habitats. Weekend family programs, puppet shows, guided trail walks, Baby & Me Hikes, scout and school programs, teacher training workshops available.
Ongoing
     Outdoor Adventure, naturalist-led walks, hikes or other outdoor activities scheduled every week.
Mon
     Toddler Trek, walk and story for toddlers ages 2-3 with adult. 10am. $5 / child, registration required.
     Aug 30, Sep 13, Sep 27
Mon/ Wed
     Awesome Animal Artists, learn about and draw a different New Jersey animal each class. Ages 5-9. 4-5pm. $5 per class, registration required.
     Aug 4, Sep 8, 13
Tues
     Pre-K Walk, hour-long nature walk and craft for ages 4-5 with adult. Reservations required 2 weeks prior to event, $5, limited space.
          Sep 14: Need for Seeds.
     Baby & Me Hikes for parents, grandparents or caretakers and infant children to discover nature at different park locations. All babies must be in front- or backpack; no siblings or strollers. 9:30-11. $1, registration required.
Wed
     Wednesday Wanderings Hiking Series, adult hiking series (18 & up). $2 per hike, registration required.
     Homeschool Walks, designed for homeschool families. 1-2:30pm. $5 per child over 2.
Thurs
     Nature's Little Explorers, 6-week nature program toddler ages 2-3 yrs with adult. $50.
     Sep 16-Oct 21  Registration begins Aug. 26.
     Woodland Adventures, nature program for ages 4-6 yrs. with adult. 1-2pm. $8.
Sat
     Tyke Hike, 45-minute nature hike for ages 2-5 with adult. 10am. $3, pre-registration required.
Selected Special Events
Preregistration required, unless noted. Fee is per person.
Jul 8, Aug 4
     Stream Ecology, ages 4-10 with adult at Lewis Morris Park. 10-11:30am. $5.
Aug 4
     Wild for Wildflower, ages 16 & up. 10am. $3.
Aug 5
     Dragonflies & Butterflies, ages 4 7 Up. 3:30-4:30pm. $3.
Aug 11
     Trekking the Tourne, moderate hike at Tourne Park for ages 8 & up. 2pm. Free.
Aug 17
     Pond Life, ages 8-12. 1pm. $5.
Aug 25
     Bug Out, all ages. 10am. $3.
Sep 5
     Laurel Trail Hike, ages 18 & up. 9:30am. Free.
Sep 11
     Tyke Hike, ages 2-5 with adult. 10am. $2.
Sep 19
     Trees of the Great Swamp, ages 12 & up. 10am. $3.
Sep 20
     Nature Detectives, ages 7-10. 4pm. $3.
Sep 23
     Autumnal Equinox Celebration, all ages. 1. $5.
Sep 25
     Mushroom Meandering, ages 16 & up. 10. $3.
Sep 26
     Fall into Fall, ages 5 & up. 1pm. $3.
Oct 2
     Lenape Day, dancing, drums and historical talks by the Ramapough Lenape Tribe as well as games, crafts, tours of a replica wigwam. All ages. 11am-4pm. $5.
Oct 23
     Trail Tales, slightly spooky, silly and nature-themed tales along the trails. Sign up in advance for a time slot. All ages. 5:30-8. $5.
Dec 19
     Winter Solstice Celebration, campfire and ceremonial aspects of the solstice, hot cider and s'mores

Hunterdon County Parks & Recreation
Office location: 1020 Rt. 31N, Lebanon Twp., 908-782-1158. Surrounding park headquarters are 2 miles of nature trails winding through display gardens including children's garden and picnic area. Over 7,000 acres of public open space at parks and preserves are maintained throughout the county. Parks staff lead a wide selection of daytime and evening nature, sports and crafts programs for children, families, adults and school/community groups. Programs on nature, camping and outdoor skills are available to groups both on- and off-site. Popular offerings include summer day camps, after-school nature programs, canoe trips and free summer concert series. www.co.hunterdon.nj.us, click on Parks and Recreation.
Ongoing
2nd Thurs
     Nature Series for Kids, seasonal children's series for ages 4-K includes hikes at Echo Hill or Mountain Farm and hands-on activities.
     Home School Environmental Series, monthly programs explore diverse natural science topics for ages 5-12 Sept.-May at Echo Hill.
Selected Evening Nature Programs
Jul 16
     Batty About Bats, ages 8 & up. Echo Hill, 8-9:30pm. $3.
Aug 27
     Hunt for the Wandering Stars (The Planets), ages 8 & up. Deer Path Park, 8-9:30pm. $3.

Kay Environmental Center
200 Pottersville Rd., Chester Twp., 908-879-0566. Former 400-acre estate with hiking trails through fields, forest and along the Black River. If you follow the red trail blazes to the river, a left before the bridge will take you to a beautiful hemlock gorge, short waterfalls and to the stone ruins of an old summer house and dam.
Jul 21
     Black River Ramble, moderate hike ages 7 & up. 3-4:30pm. Free, pre-register, 973-635-6629.

The Nature Conservancy in New Jersey
200 Pottersville Rd., Chester, 908-879-7262. Delaware Bayshores Office: 2350 Rt. 47, Delmont, 609-861-0600.
   Headquartered in New Jersey at Kay Environmental Center, The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization whose mission is to protect ecologically important open spaces, primarily through acquisition. Field trips, programs and volunteer opportunities are available for members and the public. Special events and trips are planned at Kay Center and at Conservancy preserves in Warren, Sussex, Cumberland and Cape May Counties. Visit www.nature.org/newjersey for info.
Selected Special Events
Free, unless noted. Pre-registration required for all events. Visit website for new public events and field trips.
Jul 31
     Seining at Hand's Landing Preserve, all ages. Seine along Delaware Bay. 11-1pm.
Late May
     Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Phenomenon, caravan through the Delaware Bayshores and see the ancient ritual between horseshoe crabs and migratory birds.

Kittatinny Valley State Park
Goodale Rd. (off Rt. 206N), Andover, 973-786-6445. Featuring glacial lakes, limestone outcroppings and access to the Paulinskill Valley and Sussex Branch rail trails, this State Park offers challenging mountain biking, easy family biking, hiking, fishing, boating and kayaking as well as cross country skiing and ice fishing in winter. Interpretive programs are scheduled year round, each weekend during the spring and summer, with less frequency during fall and winter.
Ongoing
     Junior Naturalist Workbook & Program for ages 7-12. Stop by the park visitor center for info.
Selected Interpretive Programs
Free, registration required.
Jun 17, Jul 1, Jul 22, Aug 5, Aug 19
     Cat-Tales Story Hour, ages 4-5. 10-11. Free, pre-registration required.
Jun 19, Jun 26
     Get Outdoors­and Discover the Hidden Treasures at Kittatinny Valley State Park, GPS treasure hunt for ages 7& up. 10-11:30.
Jul 31
     Live Animal Show, adults and ages 6-12. 11-12.
Aug 14
     What's in My Backyard, adults and ages 6-12. 11-noon.
Sep 1
     The Magic of Monarchs, ages 6-12. 4-5pm.
Sep 2, Sep 16, Sep 30
     L'il Tykes Hike, adults with children 5 and under. 4-5pm.
Sep 15
     What's in My Backyard, adults and ages 6-12. 4-5pm.

Lakota Wolf Preserve
89 Mt. Pleasant Rd. (Rt. 80W, exit 4), Columbia, 877-733-9653. Wolf watch programs presented twice daily; closed Mon. Summer: 10:30 & 4. Fall & winter: 10:30 & 3. Call for reservations. Adults $15, under 12 $7. Enjoy a scenic walk to an observation area in the center of four packs of Tundra, Timber and Arctic wolves. Learn about them through informal talks with caretakers and direct observation. Picnicking, hiking and swimming at Camp Taylor Campground (908-496-4333) is included in fee.

Liberty State Park Interpretive Center
Morris Pesin Dr. (Exit 14B NJ Tnpk.), Jersey City, 201-915-3409. Free. In addition to being a launching point to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, Liberty State Park is a scenic natural area featuring bike/walking paths, a giant playground and an interpretive center with nature trail, exhibits, offering environmental programs, outreach programs and professional development workshops for educators. Also see listing under Historic Sites.
Selected Interpretive Programs
10-noon, unless noted. Free, pre-registration required.
Jun 26
     Get Outdoors! and Explore Liberty State Park, families and children ages 5 & up. 10-11:30, 12:30-2pm.
Jul 10
     Summer Shorebird Walk.
Aug 14, Aug 28
     Explore the Estuary.
Sep 11
     Butterfly Day.
Sep 25
     Estuary Day Clean-up.

Merrill Creek Reservoir
34 Merrill Creek Rd. (Exit 4 Rt. 78W), Harmony Twp., 908-454-1213. Open daily daylight hours. Visitors Center: weekdays 8:30-4:30, weekends 10-4. 290-acre environmental preserve surrounds this reservoir that was developed by 7 electric utility companies to store water for release to the Delaware River during periods of low flow. Visitors Center features hands-on exhibits, dioramas and displays. Emphasis is on low-impact activities-hiking trails, wildlife observation blind, cross-country skiing. Swimming, camping and picnicking are prohibited. Stocked reservoir is popular for fishing and boating (canoes, sailboats and fishing boats, no gas motors). Naturalist-led environmental education programs available for all organized non-profit groups, ages pre-K to adult.

New Jersey Audubon Society
Independent, membership-supported organization has the mission to foster environmental awareness and a conservation ethic among citizens, protect New Jersey's birds and other animals and plants, and promote preservation of New Jersey's natural habitats. The organization maintains stewardship of 34 sanctuaries and conducts adult, family and children's programs at eight staffed facilities.
· Lorimar Sanctuary
790 Ewing Ave., Franklin Lakes, 201-891-2185.
· Weis Ecology Center
150 Snake Den Rd., Ringwood, 973-835-2160. See separate listing under Great Outdoors.
· Essex County Environmental Center (NJAS partner site), 621 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, 973-228-8776. See separate listing.
· Scherman-Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary­headqtrs.
11 Hardscrabble Rd., Bernardsville, 908-766-5787. See separate listing.
· Sandy Hook Bird Observatory
Bldg. 20, Hartshorne Dr., Fort Hancock, 732-872-2500.
· Plainsboro Preserve
80 Scotts Corner Rd., Cranbury, 609-897-9400. See separate listing.
· Cape May Bird Observatory
Center for Research & Education: 600 Rt. 47 N., Cape May Court House, 609-861-0700.
Nature Center of Cape May, 1600 Delaware Ave., Cape May, 609-898-8848.
Northwood Center: 701 E. Lake Dr., Cape May Point, 609-884-2736.
· Rancocas Nature Center
794 Rancocas Rd., Mount Holly, 609-261-2495.
Selected Special Events
May-Aug
   Harbor Safari, seine Cape May Harbor to discover the diverse marine life there with special emphasis on horseshoe crabs. Contact Nature Center of Cape May for info.

New Jersey Meadowlands Environment Center
2 DeKorte Park Plaza (east end of Valley Brook Rd.), Lyndhurst, 201-460-8300. Weekdays 9-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-3, closed holidays. Trails open daily. Interactive learning center and observatory, built to LEED standards, is situated in a portion of Richard W. DeKorte Park, an area of several hundred acres of reclaimed landfills and revitalized wetlands along the Hackensack River and an annual migratory stop for thousands of waterfowl and shorebirds. Barrier-free trails with bird and photo blinds; year 'round environmental and astronomy education programs for children and adults; interactive exhibits trace environmental history of the Meadowlands; nature walks; teacher development workshops; school programs; outreach programs; scout programs; summer camps; gift shop.
   From April-Oct. canoe and kayak rentals are available at Hackensack Riverkeeper Paddling Center in Laurel Hill County Park, Secaucus. Paddlers can explore the marshlands of the Sawmill Creek Wildlife Management Area . Guided tours; pontoon boat tours. For info, call 201-968-0808 or visit www.hackensackriverkeeper.org.
Open
     William D. McDowell Observatory.

Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Resource Education Center
Rt. 46 (Rt. 78 to Rt. 31N to Rt. 46E 2 miles), Oxford, 908-637-4125. Open Mon.-Fri. 10-4; closed weekends except for special events. Free. 600,000 brook, brown and rainbow trout are raised here annually to stock over 200 public waters. Self-guided tour, videos, exhibits, hiking trails and picnic grounds. Group programs. Children and adult workshops related to wildlife and natural resources are offered select weekends. Check website for monthly listings.
Registration required for all events.
Jul 16, Jul 19, Jul 27, Aug 2, 11, 17, 26, 31
      Fishing Basics, for ages 8 & up. Younger children can participate if a family member is working with them. All equipment provided, except worms (nightcrawlers are best). 9:30am. Registration opens two weeks before program.

Plainsboro Preserve
80 Scotts Corner Rd., Cranbury, 609-897-9400. Tues.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 12-5. Hiking trails open daily dawn to dusk. A joint effort of the Township of Plainsboro, County of Middlesex and New Jersey Audubon Society, the preserve includes a nature center with exhibits, reference library, nature store and over six miles of trails through a variety of habitats. Programming includes family nature programs, field trips and programs for adults and teens, and school vacation and summer camps for ages 6-12.
Jun 21-Aug 21
     Summer Camps 9am-4pm for grades 1-6. Sign up for one week or the whole summer.
Family Nature Programs
Sat. 3:30-5pm Mar.-Nov.; 2:30-4pm Dec.-Feb. Perfect for beginning naturalists and their families ages 6 to adult. $5, $3 members, pre-registration is encouraged.
Jun 19
     Butterflies for Beginners.
Jun 26
     The Basics of Birding.
Jul 3
     Dangerous Animals & Poisonous Plants of New Jersey.
Jul 10
     Invasive Species Nature Walk.
Jul 17
     New Jersey's Threatened & Endangered Wildlife.
Jul 24
     The Joy of Summer Stories.
Jul 31
     Do Butterflies Bite?
Aug 7
     Specimen of the Day.
Aug 14
      Dragons of the Summer Skies.
Aug 21
     Amazing Insects.
Aug 28
     Forest Foray.

Pyramid Mountain
247 Boonton Ave., Boonton, 973-334-3130. Park open year 'round dawn to dusk. Visitors Center Wed.-Sun. 10-4:30. Call for winter hours. Trail guide available at Visitors Center for wooded trails to Tripod Rock, a 180-ton boulder balanced atop three smaller rocks, Bear Rock, and to the top of Pyramid Mountain for fabulous views of the New York City skyline. Nature programs; guided hikes; preschool walks; nature puppet shows; school programs; scout badge programs; birthday parties.
Ongoing
     Baby & Me Hikes for parents, grandparents or caretakers and infant children to discover nature. All babies must be in front- or backpack; no registration.
Tues
     Toddler Treks, toddlers ages 2 & 3 with an adult learn about nature with walks and stories on a new topic each month. 10am. $5.
     Aug 17, Sep 14
Tues
     Preschool Walk & Craft. Monthly guided theme walk and activity for ages 4 & 5 with an adult. 10am. $5, advance registration required.
         Sep 21: Need for Seeds.
     Nature's Classroom, 4-week hands-on science education for homeschoolers 6-8 yrs. old. 1-3pm. $45.
         Sep 28-Oct 19
Wed
     Nature's Little Explorers, 6-week nature program for parent and toddlers age 2-3. 9:45-10:30am or 10:45-11:30. $50.
         Sep 15-Oct 20
     Awesome Animal Artists, for ages 5-9. Indoor/outdoor program features a different animal each session. 4-5pm. $5.
         Jul 21, Aug 11, Sep 15
Sat
     Tyke Hike, for ages 2-5 with adult. 10am select Saturdays. $2 per person.
         Jul 17, Jul 31, Aug 28, Sep 25
Selected Events
Advance registration required, unless noted. Hikes start at 10am, are appropriate for ages 7 & up and are free, unless noted.
Jul 3
     Early Bird Hike, moderate, ages 7 & up. 8am. $1.
Jul 11
     Tripod Rock Hike, moderate.
Jul 24
     Bob Busha Memorial Hike, moderate.
Jul 25
     Turkey Mountain Trot, moderate.
Jul 27
     Flower Power Family Walk, easy, ages 5 & up. 10am. $2.
Aug 8
     Dog Day Hike, moderate.
Aug 11
     Mission Monarch Search, all ages. 2-3pm. $1.
Aug 14
     Summer Wildflower Hike, moderate, ages 12 & up. 10am. $1.
Aug 22
     Valhalla Overlook Hike, moderate.
Aug 25
     Mission Monarch Search, all ages. 2-3pm. $1.
Sep 4
     Fabulous Fungus Hike, moderate. $1.
Sep 12
     Summer Singles Hike, moderate, ages 18 & up. 10am. Free.
Sep 14   
  Bats on the Brink! Bat Program & Evening Walk, ages 8 & up. 6pm. Ages 8-12 $5, ages 13 & up $10.
Sep 18
     Monarch Butterfly Festival, games, crafts, music, activities for all ages. 1-4pm. $4.
Sep 19
     On the Path to Yoga, ages 18 & up. 1pm. $20.
Sep 22
     Autumnal Equinox Hike, moderate, ages 7 & up. 5:30-8pm. $5.
Sep 29
     Evening Canoe Paddle, along the Rockaway River. Appropriate for ages 12 & up, under 16 must be accompanied by adult. 4:30-7pm. $20, limit space.

The Raptor Trust
1390 White Bridge Rd., Millington, 908-647-2353. Education Center, 908-647-1091. Open year round 7 days during daylight hours. Suggested donation $2 ea. adult. Avian rehabilitation center supplies care, diet and housing for distressed wild birds with the goal of returning healthy, self-sufficient birds to the wild. Outdoor display area for unreleasable hawks, eagles, falcons and owls is open to the public. Group outreach, on-site programs, and telephone advisory service for wild bird related problems; gift shop.

Reeves Reed Arboretum
165 Hobart Ave., Summit, 908-273-8787. Grounds open daily daylight hours. Office and library open Mon.-Fri. 9-5. Gift shop open Mon.-Sat. 10-4. Memberships available. Woodland walks, perennial gardens, rose, daylily, herb and daffodil gardens. Picnics and dogwalking are prohibited. Elephant Tree Nature Camp for children in July and Aug.; family education programs; parent/child nature series and children's workshops for ages 6-12; school programs; nature birthday parties for ages 4-8; adult workshops. Garden Shop.
New
     Discovery Saturdays, Carriage House Discovery Center is open 9am-1pm every Sat. for hands-on activities tailored for children ages 4-10 accompanied by an adult. $5 per child, drop in.
Apr
     Daffodils, see over 40,000 in bloom.
Jun
     Butterfly Garden in bloom.
Selected Special Events
Advance registration required.
Jun 25
     Backyard Campout, 6pm-8am. $25/family, $20/family members. Pre-register.
Jul 10, Aug 7, Sep 10
     Jazz on the Terrace, picnic and music. 7pm.
Jul 16, Jul 30, Aug 13
     Fireflies & Flicks, nature activity at 7:30, movie at 8pm. $6, $4 members.

Scherman-Hoffman Sanctuaries
11 Hardscrabble Rd., Bernardsville, 908-766-5787. Hotline: 908-766-2661. Trails open 7 days to 5pm, Hoffman building open Tues.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. noon-5. 276-acre wildlife sanctuary belongs to the New Jersey Audubon Society. The new Hoffman Center for Conservation and Environmental Education features an environmental learning center, tree-top level observation deck, exhibits, book and gift shop. 3.2 miles of trails lead through woodland, field and floodplain habitats. Patriot's Path can be reached from the Scherman parking lot. Field trips; adult and family programs; summer natural history day camp for ages 4-middle school; overnight camps; teacher workshops; digital photography workshops. Group programs and tours by reservation; outreach lectures and slide programs available for club meetings and special events; eco-travel. Publishers of Bridges to the Natural World, a manual for exploring New Jersey habitats with children.
Jul 12-Jul 30
     Summer Camps, limited enrollment available.

Schiff Nature Preserve
339 Pleasant Valley Rd., Mendham, 973-543-6004. Schiff Natural Lands Trust, a nonprofit corporation, owns and operates the 340-acre Schiff Nature Preserve as public open space. Eight miles of trails are open daylight hours for hiking, biking, horseback riding or nature study. Year round natural history programs for children and adults, homeschooler program, summer day camps for children (see Camps), and environmental book club for adults are offered. Discounts available to members.
School Year Programs
Fees are listed first for members, then non-members.
Mon
     Walkabout for Preschoolers
     Ages 2-5. 9:45-10:45am. $10/$15.
     Jun 14, Sep 13-27, Oct 4-25, Nov 2-30, Dec 6-20
Tues
     Environmental Book Club, adults only. 7pm. Free.
     Sep 14, Oct 26
Thurs
     Health Hike, adults only. 9:15a.m. $5 suggested donation.
     Sep 9, Oct 14, Nov 18, Dec 9
Sept-May
     Homeschooler Trimester, monthly program each season for grades K-6. $30 per member/$50 non-member. 12:45-2:30pm.
     Sep 13, Oct 11, Nov 8: Botany.
     Dec 13, Jan 10, Feb 14: Natural Art History.
Selected Events
Pre-registration required for all programs. Fees listed first for members, then non-members.
Jun 22
     Baby & Me Hike, 9:30am. $1.
Jun 26
     Dragonfly Walk with Allen Barlow, 1pm.
Jun 28-Aug 13
      Summer Nature Programs, six weeks of camp for children entering 1st grade-12 yrs. old. One week for ages 13-15 ­ Aug. 16-20.
Jul 10
     Music in the Woods, acoustic music. 6:30pm. $8/$10, under 10 free.
Jul 18
     Fungus Foray, ages 12-adult. 10am. Free.
Sep 6
     Labor Day Parade, all ages. 9am. Free.
Sep 14
     Baby & Me Hike, 9:30am. $1.
Sep 17
     Volunteer! Preserve Work Day, 9:30am.
Sep 21
     Volunteer! Clean Team, 9:30am.,
Oct 2
     Winter Gear Swap for Outdoor Kids, 2-4pm. $10 per family.
Oct 26
     Volunteer! Invasive Plant Strike Team, 9:30am.
Oct 30
     Wild Costume parade, all ages. 1-2:30. $7.
Nov 2
     Baby & Me Hike, 9:30am. $1.
     Volunteer! Clean Team, 9:30am.
Nov 4
     Children's Vacation Program: Which Way Do We Go?, using maps, compasses and more. Ages 6-12. 9:30-12:30 or 1-4pm. $15/$20.
Nov 5
     Children's Vacation Program: Predators. Ages 6-12. 9:30-12:30 or 1-4pm. $15/$20.
Nov 13-14
     Wilderness First Aid, ages 16-adult. Two-day, 16-hr. class designed for scouts, camp counselors and outdoor enthusiasts. 9am-5pm. $130, includes textbook, handouts, certification upon completion, light breakfast.
Dec 21
     Baby & Me Hike, 9:30am. $1.
Dec 28-29
     Holiday Break Hikers, ages 6-12. 10-12 or 1-3. $10/$15.
Hike Mendham Series
Monthly hiking series, 9:30-11:30am. Free. Call 973-543-6004 or visit website for information.
Jul 15
     Dismal Harmony.
Aug 9
     India Brook Park.
Sep 12
     Mosle Preserve, 2-4pm.
Oct 16
     Tempe Wick, 2-4pm.
Nov 9
     Burnett Brook.

Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center
190 Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge, 908-766-2489. Daily 9am-5pm. No admission. Home to Secrets of the Great Swamp exhibit hall (closed for renovations) and a host of classes, lectures, walks, and other environmental education programs. 430 acres bordering the Great Swamp and Passaic River feature 812 miles of walking trails with 8,000 ft. boardwalk and special boardwalk for handicapped, bird blind and frog ponds. Year-round nature and discovery programs are offered for children ages infant­5 with parent, preschoolers­age 12, families and adults; canoe and kayak trips; field trips; summer camps; teacher workshops; outreach to Somerset County schools; cross country skiing in winter. For a full listing of programs for toddlers through families, call 908-766-2489 or access website.
Sun
     One Hour Wanderings, hour-long interpretive walk with naturalist for adults and ages 4 & up focuses on different theme each week, no registration necessary (not designed for organized groups such as scouts). Noon-1pm selected Sat. and Sun. Free.
     Jun 13, 20, Jul 3, 11, 18, 24, 25, Aug 1, 8, 14, 15, 29, Sep 5, 26
Exhibitions
Sep 3-Oct 9
     Birds of Prey of the Eastern United States Art Exhibit.
Selected Special Events
Oct 3
     The Lord Stirling 1770s Festival, Lord Stirling's grand manor house and estate come to life. 10:30-4:30. $4 suggested donation.
Oct 9
     Raptors Live!, meet a live raptor from The Raptor Trust and exhibit artists discuss their work. Free.
Oct 22-24
     The Nature of Halloween, ages 3-6 with parent. Meet and learn about misunderstood animals on a guided 45-60 min. walk on the boardwalk. Come in costume. Advance tickets required. 5:45-7:30pm. $4 per person.
Selected Family & Friends Programs
For adults and ages 4 yrs. or older. An adult must accompany anyone younger than 15. Fees are per person, pre-register.
Jul 10
     Hands-On Nature, 10:30-noon. $9.
Jul 18
     Fun on the Farm, Ross Family homestead and farm. 4-5:30pm. Free.
Aug 7
     Aquatic Adventures, pond study. 10:30-12. $9.
Sep 9
     Tremendous Tadpoles, Lily Pad Pond. 6-7:30. $9.
Sep 11
     Flutter Bye!, 10-11:30am. $9.
Sep 12
     Washington Really Hiked Here!, Washington Rock Park. 3-4pm. Free.
Sep 17
     Basically Bats, 6:30-8pm. $9.
Sep 23
     September Sunset Stroll, 6:30-8pm. $9.
Sep 25
     September's Harvest Garden, 1:30-3pm. $9.
Oct-Dec
     Visit website for fall program schedule.

Somerset County Park Commission Junior Ranger Program
Colonial Park, Franklin Twp., 732-873-8585. Duke Island Park, Old York Rd., Bridgewater, 908-722-7779. Junior Ranger activity book is available for ages 6-12 to learn about the environment and its inhabitants. After completion, a Park Ranger will review work and present an official Junior Ranger badge.

Stony Brook Millstone Watershed Association
31 Titus Mill Rd., Pennington, 609-737-3735. Reserve open dawn to dusk. Nature Center open Tues.-Fri. 10-5, Sat. 10-4. Butterfly House open dawn to dusk daily May-Oct. Member supported non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of the natural environment drained by Stony Brook and the Millstone River offers education programs for children, adults and families, summer camp, teacher workshops, school and group on-site and outreach programs. The reserve features hiking trails, pond, open-air Butterfly House, and Buttinger Nature Center which houses two Discovery Rooms with hands-on activities, live animal exhibits and nature shop.
Ongoing
     Tiny Tot Walks for ages 18-36 mos., child must be walking and accompanied by adult.
Jun 11, Jul 14, Aug 12, Sep 13
     Naturally Fun, nature programs for ages 3-5.
Jun 12
     Katie Gorrie Butterfly House 2010 Opening.
Jun 21-Aug 16
     Butterfly House "Behind the Scenes" Visit, drop in, every Mon. 1-3pm. $5 donation.
Tues
     Summer School-Age Series (ages 6-9) and Summer Preschool Series (ages3-5). Register for individual sessions or the entire series, July 6 to Aug. 10.
Selected Programs
Registration required for all programs, unless noted. Call 609-737-7592 to register. Member fee listed first/then non-member.
Jun 26
     Whatever Floats Your Boat, 1:30-3. $5.
Jul 7
     Exploring the Night: Bats at Dusk, adults and families with children over 5. $5/$8.
Jul 10
     Insect Safari on the Reserve, adults and families. 9:30-11. $5/$8.
     Family Night Hike & Campfire, adults and families 6 and older. 8-10pm. $8/$12.
Jul 17
     Great Watershed Stream Exploration, adults and families. 10-11:30. $5 suggested donation.
Jul 22
     Butterfly Tea Party, for families. 10:30-12. $8/$12.
Jul 26
     Hobbits, Forts & Fairies, ages 5 & up. 10:30-12. $8/$12.
Jul 31
     X-Stream Family Day at the Stony Brook, families with children ages 6 and older. 9:30-2. $20-15/$25-20.
Aug 7
     Butterflies in the Garden 101, adults. 10:30-12. Free.
     Family Night Hike & Campfire, adults and families 6 and older. 8-10pm. $8/$12.
Aug 11
     Butterfly Tea Party, for families. 10:30-12. $8/$12.
Aug 12
     Great Family Butterfly Hunt, adults and families. 11:30-1:30. Free.
Aug 14
     10th Annual Butterfly Day, tours, nature hikes, live entertainment, food, children's activities, demonstrations and exhibits. 10-4. $5, $15 per carload.
Sep 11
     8th Annual Mercer County Insect Festival, insect safar, storytelling, costume parade, insect lab, hayrides. 1-4pm, Mercer Education Gardens.
Sep 17
     Exploring the Night: Creepy Spider Hunt, adults and families. 7:30pm. $8/$12.

Tenafly Nature Center
313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, 201-568-6093. Visitors Center open Mon.-Sun. 9-5. Trails open dawn to dusk. Free admission. Six miles of trails, pond, Visitors Center with live animals and interactive displays. Afterschool programs, parent/child programs, weekend family programs, scout programs, seasonal activities, outreach and summer camp.
Ongoing
     Family Nature Walks, different seasonal topics and activities each month. All ages. Sun. 3:30-4:30. Members free/non-members $5.
     Little Naturalists, series for ages 212 and 3 with a different topic each week. No strollers or siblings.
     Discovery Classes for children pre-K-grade 5. Sign up for series or individual sessions.
Selected Programs
Registration is required for all programs. Sign up at www.tenaflynaturecenter.org.
Jun 20
     Father's Day Hike, all ages.
Jun 22-24
     Dinosaur & Mineral Adventure, presented by Dinosaurs Rock. Ages 5-12.
Jun 28-Sept 3
     Summer Nature Day Camp, weekly sessions for ages 4-14. Nature Day Camp CIT Volunteer Program, for ages 13 and older.
Jul 14-18
     Sailing on the Hudson, 3-hr. and 4-hr. cruises on the Hudson River aboard New Jersey's restored 1928 tall ship, the A.J. Meerwald. Children's Sails on July 16, 17 & 18. Register early.

Union County Trailside Nature and Science Center
Watchung Reservation, Coles Ave. & New Providence Rd., Mountainside, 908-789-3670. Visitor Center: Daily 12-5pm. Free. Located within the 2000-acre Watchung Reservation with 13+ miles of marked trails, the Trailside Museum and Visitor Center offers many opportunities to explore nature. Museum features hands-on exhibits for young children and taxidermy exhibits of local wildlife. Live reptiles and fish live in ponds at the base of a 34-foot-tall beech tree inside the newly renovated Visitor Center. Interactive exhibits explain local plants, geology, Lenape Native American history and conservation. Weekly nature and exploration programs for children include adult/child interactive programs for toddlers and ages 3-4, drop-off programs for ages 4-6, after-school programs for grades 1-5, weekend family programs and summer day camps for preschoolers to grade 9. Scout badge and group programs; outreach programs; birthday parties. Visit website for new programs.
Saturday Sept-Jun
     Outdoor Adventures, weekly themed hikes/nature related talks on Saturdays Sept.-June All ages. No pre-registration required.
Summer Friday Family Programs
For all ages with an adult, unless noted. Programs are held rain or shine, unless severe weather. In-county fees are shown first, followed by out-of-county. Pre-registration is required.
Jun 25
     Bubblemania, 10-11, 1:30-2:30. $5/$6.
     Stream Stroll, 10-11:30 or 1:30-3. $6/$7.
Jul 2
     Bear Necessities, 10-11 or 1:30-2:30. $5/$6.
     Salamander Search, 10-11:30 or 1:30-3. $6/$7.
Jul 9
     Minibeasts, 10-11 or 1:30-2:30. $5/$6.
     Geotyke Hike, 10-11:30 or 1:30-3. $6/$7.
Jul 16
     Pond Life, Seeley's Pond. 10-11:30 or 1:30-3. $6/$7.
     Scavenger Hunt, 10-11 or 1:30-2:30. $5/$6.
Jul 23
     Bear Necessities, 10-11 or 1:30-2:30. $5/$6.
     Salamander Search, 10-11:30 or 1:30-3. $6/$7.
Jul 30
     Bubblemania, 10-11, 1:30-2:30. $5/$6.
     Stream Stroll, 10-11:30 or 1:30-3. $6/$7.
Aug 6
     Scavenger Hunt, 10-11 or 1:30-2:30. $5/$6.
     Geotyke Hike, 10-11:30 or 1:30-3. $6/$7.
Aug 13
     Minibeasts, 10-11 or 1:30-2:30. $5/$6.
     Pond Life, Seeley's Pond. 10-11:30 or 1:30-3. $6/$7.
Summer Tuesday Evening Family Programs
For ages 6 & up with an adult, unless noted. Programs meet at Visitor Center and are held 8-9pm rain or shine unless weather is severe, 908-789-3670 for weater updates.
Jun 29
     Evening Pond Search, Seeley's Pond. 7:30-9. $7/$8.
Jul 6
     Night Time Munchies, nocturnal animals. $6/$7.
Jul 20
     The Benefit of Bats, Seeley's Pond. $6/$7.
Aug 10
     Flashing Fireflies, $6/$7.
Summer Family Campfires & Campouts
Jun 23
     Beginning of Summer Family Campfire, all ages 7-8:30pm. $7/$8, pre-registration required.
Jul 16-17, Jul 30-31
     Family Camp-Out for Beginners, intro to camping for adults with children ages 6 & up. Participants provide their own tent, sleeping bags and flashlights. 6pm-10am. $20/$25, limited space. Pre-registration required.
Aug 5
     End of Summer Family Campfire, all ages 7-8:30pm. $7/$8, pre-registration required.

Weis Ecology Center
150 Snake Den Rd., Ringwood, 973-835-2160. Wed.-Sun. 8:30-4:30. Over 24 miles of trails depart from the Center's private grounds and explore adjacent Norvin Green State Forest and the surrounding Highlands. Weis Center features a visitor center with snakes, turtles and seasonal displays, nature store, aviary and butterfly gardens. Programs for children and families, adults and teens, serious hikers, summer nature day camps, and day and residential programs for schools, scouts and other groups are offered year 'round.
Ongoing
     Merit Badge Series, workshops for scouts.
     Nature Discovery Time: Preschooler & Toddler Hikes, short discovery walks. Babies in backpacks welcome. Limit: 10 childen. $5.
     Sep 2, Oct 7, Nov 11
Selected Events
Pre-registration required. Fees are listed for NJ Audubon members first, then nonmembers.
Jun 20
    Father's Day Hike, elementary-age and up. 9:30-1:30. $5/$8, dads hike free.
Jun 30
     Amphibian Adventures I, grades 2-5. 10-12. $12/$18.
Jul 1
     Amphibian Adventures II, grades 2-5. 10-12. $12/$18.
Jul 7-Aug 13
     Nature Day Camps, weekly camps for children entering K through 8th grade.
Oct 9
     Fall Foliage Hike for Families, best for pre-teens and up. 1-3pm. $5/$8.
Oct 16, 22, 23
     Campfire in the Pumpkin Patch, 7:30-9pm. Bring your pumpkin and carving tools. $5/$8, family $15/$24.
Nov 6
     Patterns in Nature: Drawing & Journaling for Families (and Individuals), grade 2 & up. 1:30-3:30pm. $5/$8.
Dec 4
     Open House: Holiday Nature Festival, 10-3. Free. Annual Christmas Tree Sale begins. Bird Seed Sale, 9-4. Order by Nov. 20.
Dec 4-5, 11-12, 18-19
     Christmas Tree Sale/Year-End Fundraiser. 10-4.
Summer Family Fun Days
$5 members, $8 nonmembers, family maximum $15 members, $24 nonmembers.
Jul 9
     Summer Sunset Hike, moderately strenuous hike best for pre-teens & older. 7-9:30pm.
Jul 16, Jul 17
     Habitat Hunt: A Day in the Life of a Forest, 0-11am.
Jul 23, 24
     Fossil Fandango, create a fossil. 10-11:30am.
Jul 25, 31
     Soaked & Slimy Aquatic Adventure, 12-1:30.
Aug 7
     The Pirate's Bounty­An Orienteering Treasure Hunt, best for pre-teens and older. 10-12.
Aug 14, 15
     Survival Shelters, best for older elementary aged children and pre-teens.
Selected Nature Study & Adventure Programs for Adults & Teens
$5 members/$8 nonmembers, pre-registration is required.
Jul 10
     Hiking 101, 10-noon.
Jul 18, 31, Aug 6, 14
     Birds of New Jersey: Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, 9:30-11am.
Jul 23
     Turning Bat Habits Into Good, 7:30-9pm.
Aug 6
     Summer Star Gazing, basics of astronomy. 8-9:30pm.
Aug 28
     Wildflowers of Pyramid Mountain, 10-12:30.
Sep 4
     Wildflowers of Pyramid Mountain, 10-12:30.
Sep 9-Oct 21
      Beech Road Bird Walks, every Thurs. 7:30-9am.
Oct 2
     Basics of Birding: Autumn Hawk Watch, slide show and outing to Mt. Peter. 8:30-12. $6/$10.
     Bird Seed Sale, 9-4. Order by Sept. 18.
Oct 2, 3, Nov 14, 15
     Basics of Birding: Backyard Birdfeeding, 1:30-3.

parks and playgrounds

Brookside Park
Hetfield Ave., Scotch Plains. Baseball field, basketball court, preschool playground, picnic area, field house, roller hockey, pond with trail.

Essex County Kip's Castle Park
22 Crestmont Ave., Verona/Montclair, 973-268-3524. New park property features historic castle and beautifully landscaped grounds. Castle is currently closed to the public.

Somerset County Park Commission Colonial Park
Off of Amwell Rd., Franklin. 651-acre park with picnic areas, softball, tennis center, putting course, paddle boats, gardens, and leash-free dog area. Playground features barrier-free equipment.

Columbia Park
Plainfield Ave., Berkeley Heights. Ballfields, basketball courts, shuffleboard court, ice rink, practice handball-tennis board, 6 tennis courts, skate park. Children's playground and separate toddler playground. Picnic tables.

Somerset County Park Commission Duke Island Park
Old York Rd., Bridgewater. 339-acre park along the North Branch of the Raritan River features picnic areas, prime fishing, softball, bandshell, walking trails, and visitor center. Playground features barrier free equipment.

Hedden County Park
Reservoir Rd., Dover, Randolph & Mine Hill, 973-829-8257. Six-acre lake, ballfields, hiking and biking trails, picnic sites and shelter, Indian Falls and playground.

KidStreet
Claude Dr. at Garretson Rd. & Commons Way, Bridgewater. Large wooden play and climbing structure.

Essex County Kip's Castle Park
22 Crestmont Rd., Montclair, 973-268-3500. Estate grounds open dawn to dusk. April-Oct.: Castle open for first floor self-guided tours Mon.-Thurs. 12-4. The former estate of Frederic Ellsworth Kip is Essex County's newest park encompassing a 9,000 square foot mansion that replicates a medieval Norman castle and 11 acres on the ridge of First Mountain with spectacular views of New York City. The park will become the County's premiere cultural resource center as county offices, public meeting space, museum space and educational programs are developed.

Lewis Morris Park
Rt. 24 West, Mendham, Morris and Harding Twp., 973-326-7600. Daily 8am-dusk. 1,154 acres, adjacent to Jockey Hollow. Saturn Kids Kingdom in Doe Meadow features a wood and plastic climbing structure with slides, rings, rope ladder on woodchip surface. Picnic areas nearby along with miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails, parcourse fitness circuit, ballfields and Sunrise Lake.

Littell People's Park
Memorial Park, Wahler Rd., Livingston. Ramps, rings, ladders and slides on woodchip surface within fenced area; sandbox.

Loantaka Brook Reservation
Morris Township, 973-326-7600. Dawn to dusk. Access trail from Loantaka Way, Kitchell Road, Green Village Road or South St. Five mile paved recreation/bicycle trail from Green Village Rd. in Chatham Township to Seaton Hackney Stables in Morristown. Duck pond at Kitchell Rd. with picnic areas, small playground, ballfields. Playground at South St., also with picnic area and ballfields.

Lurker Park
East Hanover. New tot lot features handicapped-accessible swings and two jungle gyms, one for smaller children.

Mabie Playground
26 Elm St., Summit, 908-277-2932. Preschool playground with mulch, basketball courts, bocce ball courts, horseshoe pits and game tables across from the train station, a short walk from downtown Summit.

Meadowland Park
N. Ridgewood Rd., South Orange, 973-378-7754. Large park with vast fields, tennis courts, platform tennis, playground, duck pond and the Baird Center housing the South Orange art gallery and recreation department. Site of summer outdoor jazz concerts and community events.

Memorial Field
Ashland Ave., Summit. Two wood climbing structures-one for preschoolers, one for elementary age, large sandbox, paved walks for bike riding and rollerblading, tennis courts and backboard, basketball, ballfields, kite flying, picnic tables.

Mindowaskin Park
Downtown Westfield. Scenic park with walking/strolling trail around duck pond, playground and bandstand.

Nomahegan Park
Springfield Ave., Cranford, 908-527-4900. Paved bike/jogging/walking path, fitness circuit, playground, ballfields, pond, picnic area and rest rooms.

Somerset County Park Commission North Branch Park
Milltown Rd., Bridgewater. 185-acre park along the North Branch of the Raritan River is home to the Somerset County Park Commission administrative offices. Picnic areas, prime fishing, large fields provide space for soccer, softball, flying model aircraft and launching model rockets. Playground features swings, slides, suspension bridge, bars and rings.

Pleasant Valley Park
Valley Rd., Bernards Township. Large, pretty park features wood playground with open climbing structure, pond, picnic shelter, walking/bicycle trails, tennis and paddle tennis courts, fitness trail, athletic fields, amphitheater and community pool.

Riverside Park
Valley Rd., Gillette, 908-647-8000. 24-acre site includes three tennis courts, basketball, bocci and horsesehoe courts, children's playground designed for ages 2-5, two soccer/lacrosse fields, walking paths, canoe launch and picnic grove at the Passaic River. Restrooms available.

Schooley's Mountain Park
Camp Washington Rd., Long Valley, 908-829-8257. Lake, ballfield, picnic areas, hiking trails, mountain biking and fishing.

Shunpike Park
Shunpike Rd., Chatham Twp. Soccer and baseball fields, basketball court. New climbing and play structure replaced the famous wooden castle in 2008.

Taylor Park
Main St., Millburn. Fenced in playground, ballfields, walking/strolling trails, duck pond, tennis courts, teen center, basketball courts, site for summer concerts.

Tourne County Park
40 McCaffrey Ln. or Old Denville Rd., Boonton Twp. & Denville, 973-326-7600. 500 acre-park includes a bird sanctuary, wildflower trail, ballfield, family picnic areas, group picnic shelter, playground and trail system with picturesque overlook.

Union County Echo Lake Park
Springfield Ave., Mountainside, 908-527-4900. New playground, picnic area, large field provides space for soccer and softball, fitness trail, fishing, fenced in Dog Park and amphitheater.

Union County Watchung Reservation
The Loop, Watchung Reservation, Mountainside, 908-527-4900. Play and climbing structure with lookouts, platforms, tube slides, tire swings, sliding poles and track riders. Upper, middle and lower tiers accommodate children ages 2-12. Open fields, swing sets, picnic sites (with grills), trails nearby including trail to Trailside Nature & Science Center and Museum.

Van Saun Park
216 Forest Ave. (Rt. 4E to Forest Ave., turn right at exit), Paramus, 201-262-3771. Playground with multiple-age play areas, sprinkler, picnic areas, zoo, train ride and carousel. See listing for Bergen County Zoo.

White Oak Park
Baird Rd., Branchburg, 908-526-1300. 127-acre park features soccer/lacrosse fields, baseball/softball fields, batting cages, tennis courts, practice wall, basektball court, sand volleyball courts, 1.5 mile walking/jogging path, nature trails, playgrounds, wooden tot lot, pavilion, picnic tables, campfire ring, pond, restrooms and concession stand.

special needs
See general listings under this category for additional playgrounds with barrier-free equipment.

Memorial Park
Westfield. Built by Greg Ryan, Jr. in 2004 for his Boy Scout Eagle Project, the new wheelchair-accessible playground includes a sidewalk from the parking lot to a ramped playground structure with rubber surfacing, two infant, two regular and four special needs swings, one accessible picnic table and four benches.

Morris-Union Jointure Playground
Central Ave., New Providence. Open for use by the public on weekends and after 6pm weekdays. Playground, specially designed for children with special needs, features swings with high sides, platform swing, basketball court, enclosed slides, reduced-height climbing bars, cushioned with a 15-inch carpet of wood chips.

Phil Rizzuto Park
Morris & North Aves. (across from Kean University), Union, 908-527-4900. 10.4-acre recreational area features a "Boundless Playground," a fully accessible play area for children of all physical abilities. The park is decorated with baseball themes, a baseball-style seating area, gazebo with stadium-theme overhead, and granite dedication monument. Other attractions include a spray pool, pedestrian bridge, soccer field and para-course fitness stations.

Rainbow Land
Midland School, Readington Rd., North Branch. Fully handicapped accessible playground for student and community use features sandbox and planter, mock post office and bank, large tire toy, small theater, wheelchair slider, slides, swings and numerous other sensory-motor activities.

the shore
See Activity categories under History, Museums, Outdoors and the Arts for more listings down the shore.

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
Great Creek Rd. (off Rt. 9), Oceanville, 609-652-1665. Refuge headquarters features changing wildlife displays: Open weekdays 10-3. Wildlife Drive and trails are open seven days sunrise to sunset (check website for periodic closings). Entrance fee supports refuge operations. Brochures available at self-service info center.
   46,000 acres of coastal area in southern New Jersey is actively protected and managed for migratory birds. The refuge's location in one of the Atlantic Flyway's most active flight paths makes it an important link in the vast network of national wildlife refuges administered nationwide by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. An eight-mile auto trail and nature trails lead visitors through tidal salt marsh, field and woodland habitats visited by more than 275 species of migratory land and water birds.
Oct, May
     Peak of fall and spring migrations. Bird walks and birding workshops are scheduled.

Gateway National Recreation Area
Sandy Hook (GSP Exit 117), 732-872-5970. Park: Daily sunrise to sunset. Lifeguards on duty 10-6 daily Memorial Day-Labor Day. Beach parking fee 7am-4pm Memorial Day-Labor Day: $10. Spermaceti Cove Visitor Center: Daily 10-5pm. History House, a restored 1898 lieutenant's residence on "Officers Row:" Weekends 1-5pm, daily from June 20-Aug. 28. Fort Hancock Museum: Closed for renovations this summer, closed winter. Note: When parking areas are full, the park closes until parking becomes available. To avoid delays on weekends, arrive before 10 or after 3.
      6 1/2-mile-long barrier peninsula with ocean beach on one side and Sandy Hook Bay on the other, features salt marshes, dunes, hiking trails, migratory shore birds habitat and historic Fort Hancock, established in 1895 as part of the defenses for New York harbor. Seagull's Nest open deck restaurant open April-end of Oct. at Beach Area D. Lifeguards are on duty at five ocean beaches from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
      Ranger programs throughout the summer include nature and history walks, canoe cruises, and gun battery tours. Marine science summer camps, environmental education programs for all ages, family, school and teacher workshops are offered by NJ Marine Science Consortium in Fort Hancock Bldg. 22 (732-872-1300 ext. 30; www.njmsc.org); Brookdale Community College's Ocean Institute in Bldg. 53 (732-224-2435; www.brookdalecc.edu/staff/sandyhook/index.html); and the American Littoral Society (732-291-0055; www.littoralsociety.org).
New
     Bridge Construction at park entrance may cause long delays leaving the park after 1pm, particularly on weekends. Radio 680AM provides the latest information and can be heard one mile from park entrance.      Podcasts for Sandy Hook and other National Parks of New York Harbor are available at www.nps.gov/gate, under the "Photos and Multimedia" link.
Open
     Sandy Hook Bird Observatory, in Fort Hancock Bldg. 20. New Jersey Audubon Society site offers public and school programs at this key location on the Atlantic Flyway. Open Tues.-Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-3. 732-872-2500, njaudubon.org.
     Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the U.S.'s oldest operating lighthouse (1764), is restored and open to the public weekends April-Dec., 12-4:30; weekdays beginning mid-June­Aug. 1-4:30pm. Children must be 48 in. tall to climb tower. Reserve tours for scouts and groups in advance, 856-546-0514.
     Multi-Use Pathway, shared by bicyclists, skaters and pedestrians, extends 5 miles north from the park entrance to Fort Hancock.
Ongoing Summer Events
Jun 6, Jun 26, Jul 10, Jul 18, Jul 31, Aug 8, Aug 21, Aug 29
     Nike Radar Sites, part of the air defenses around NYC from 1950s to 1970s, open 12-4.
Jun 6-Aug 29
     Battery Gunnison, visit with living historians from the Army Ground Forces Assn., weekends 1-5pm.
Jun 20-Aug 28
     Battery Potter, the nation's oldest concrete gun emplacement, open weekends 1-4:30pm.
Weekly Summer Events
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri
     Crab of the Day, close-up look at marine life with park ranger. Afternoons, Beach Area E.
Mon-Wed
     Canoe Programs, 2-hr. tour of bayside waters and Skeleton Hill Island. 10-noon. Free, reservations required no later than Fri. before date you wish to paddle. July 5-Aug. 18.
Mon
     Bike to Birds, Bunkers or Buildings, bring your own wheels to explore either a normally closed building, bunker or unique birding site with a ranger. 7-8:30pm, Chapel parking lot. July 5-Aug. 16.
Wed
     "Junior" Junior Ranger, seining, nature-based arts and crafts, marine life activities for ages 2-6. 10-12pm, Guardian Park. Free, reservations required. July 7-Aug.18.
Wed-Thurs
    From French Fries to Fuel: Biodiesel at the Beach, hands-on demo. Afternoons, North Beach Pavilion. July 7-Aug. 19.
Thurs
     Beach Apparatus Drill, rangers reenact Lifesaving Service techniques. 7-8pm, Beaches D & E. June 24-Aug. 19.
Fri
      Seining at Horseshoe Cove, explore what marine creatures lurk just beneath the surface of Sandy Hook Bay. 10-12, Horseshoe Cove. July 2-Aug. 20.
     Campfire Program, songs and stories. July 6-30 at 8pm, Aug. 6-20 at 7:30pm.
Junior Ranger Programs
Hands-on activities for ages 7-14. 10:30-11:50am. Free, but reservations required. 732-872-5970.
Jul 5, 19
     Horseshoe Crab, Horseshoe Cove.
Jul 9, 23, Aug 20
     Marine Invader, Visitor Center.
Jul 12, Aug 2
     Firefighter, Fire Station Number 1.
Jul 16, Aug 13
     Lifesavers, Visitor Center.
Jul 26
     Piping Plover, North Beach Pavilion.
Aug 9
     Air Defenders, Fire Station Number 1.
Jul 30
     Artillery Corps, Battery Gunnison.
Selected Events Free
Jun 29
     Night Hike, horseshoe crab and bay creatures. 8pm, Visitor Center.
Jul 6, Aug 3, Aug 31
     Night Lighthouse Climb, 8pm in July, 7:30pm in Aug. Reservations required.
Jul 13
     Weird Sandy Hook, Post Theater Parking Lot. 8pm, reservations required.
Jul 15, 22, 29, Aug 5, 12, 19
     Discovering the Fish of Sandy Hook­A Seining Adventure for the Family, American Littoral Society program. $25 non-member family, $10 member family. Reservations, 732-291-0055.
Jul 20, Aug 17
     Sunrise Lighthouse Climb, 5am in July, 5:30am in Aug.
Jul 23-24, 30-31
     Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Nile," live theater. 8pm, Fort Hancock Theater. Tickets, 732-471-8268 or www.soarproductions.org.
Jul 27
     Night Hike, salt marsh. 7:30pm, Visitors Center.
Aug 10
     Night Hike, "rangers's choice" hike. 7:30pm, Visitors Center.
Aug 24
     Weird Sandy Hook, Post Theater Parking Lot. 7:30pm, reservations required.
Families Investigate Science Hands-On Programs
Building 22, Fort Hancock, 732-872-1300 ext. 30 or 19. New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium offers 3-hr. hands-on marine-themed workshops for families (FISH) during spring, summer and fall; summer camp; and scout programs. Consult website for current schedule, registration information and fees.
Apr-Oct
     FISH, hands-on family workshops.
Jul & Aug
     Marine Sciences Day Camp, one week sessions of outdoor exploration and laboratory investigations for grades 3-8.
American Littoral Society
Mid-Atlantic chapter is headquartered on Sandy Hook, 732-291-0055. Organization founded by scientists, naturalists and divers focuses on coastal education, advocacy and conservation activities. Hands-on school outreach programs; group programs on the beach; local, national and international field trips.

Island Beach State Park
Rt. 35, Seaside Park (GSP exit 82), 732-793-0506. Interpretive Programs, 732-793-1698. Parking fee thru Labor Day: weekdays $6, weekends $10. After Labor Day: $5. Beautiful wide beaches, dunes, fishing, nature center, and 16 miles of trails including paved bicycle path, nature trails and canoe/kayak trail in Barnegat Bay. Horseback riding by reservation only Oct. 1-Apr. 30. On hot, sunny, summer weekends, it's best to arrive before 9am or after 1pm to avoid park closure. Surf chairs available for disabled. Aeolium (house of the wind) nature center, about 1.5 miles from entrance gate, features exhibits about barrier islands and their habitats and short nature trail. Discovery Trails of Island Beach State Park brochure lists self-guided nature trails. Interpretive center at the Historic Forked River Coast Guard Station #112 is open Fri.-Sun. 8-4. A guide to the park can be found online at friendsofislandbeach.com.

Marine Mammal Stranding Center
3625 Brigantine Blvd., Brigantine, 609-266-0538. Open daily Memorial Day to Labor Day. Hours change seasonally; call before you visit. Donation. Organization rescues, rehabilitates and releases stranded or otherwise distressed marine mammals and sea turtles. Sea Life Education Center features 25 life-size replicas of marine mammals and fish, educational exhibits and gift shop.
Summer
     Workshops and camps for ages 4 and up. Call or fill out registration form online.

The Noyes Museum of Art
Lily Lake Rd. (GSP exit 48), Oceanville, 609-652-8848. Tues.-Sat. 10-4:30, Sun. 12-5. Adults $4, students/srs. $3, 6 & under free. The only fine arts museum in southern New Jersey features American art, especially folk art and crafts and a massive collection of working decoys. Adjacent to the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Group tours and workshops; group outreach programs available.
Sat
     Art workshops for ages 3-12 one Sat. each month. Reservations recommended.

Seven President's Oceanfront Park
Ocean Ave. (GSP exit 105, Hwy. 36E), Long Branch, 732-229-0924. Monmouth County Park System: 732-842-4000. Daily 8am to dusk. Admission and parking fee charged Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day weekend. Expansive beach, 2 playgrounds, snack pavilion, jetty fishing, boat ramp, volleyball, skateplex, restrooms and showers. Surf chair for persons with disabilities available at pavilion. Lifeguards on duty 10-5 daily mid-June through Labor Day.

Tuckerton Seaport
120 W. Main St. (GSP exit 58), Tuckerton, 609-296-8868. See listing under Historic Sites.

Wetlands Institute
1075 Stone Harbor Blvd. (GSP exit 10), Stone Harbor, 609-368-1211. Mon.-Sat. 9:30-4:30, Sun. 10-4. Winter: closed Sun. & Mon. Adults $7, ages 2-11 $5. 6,000 acres of coastal wetlands are a living laboratory for education and research with salt marsh trail, observation tower, exhibits and museum shop. Open in winter for self-guided tours. In summer, daily events may include wetlands and wildlife workshops, family programs, guided walks, kayaking or back bay boat cruises.
Ongoing
     Official New Jersey site for Junior Duck Stamp entries & judging, for K-12 students. NEHST (Nature Education for Homeschool Students & Teachers) program meets monthly.
Sep 17-19
     Annual Wings 'n Water Festival, family fun celebration of the coast.

winter sports

Cross-Country Skiing  |  Downhill Skiing/Boarding  |  Ice Skating  |  Sledding  |  Tubing

discount lift tickets
In cooperation with the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association, discount lift tickets to many ski facilities are available through Recreation Departments and County Park Commissions.
Visit www.liftopia.com or discountlifttickets.net to purchase discount lift tickets online.

Morris County Park Commission
Snow & ice conditions: 973-326-7632. Please note: Sledding, skating, and cross-country skiing are not permitted at county golf courses.

Somerset County Park Commission
Winter activity hotline: 908-722-1200, ext. 351. union county department of parks, recreation & facilities Snow & ice conditions: 908-558-4079.

Union County Department of Parks,
Recreation & Facilities, 908-527-4900. Warinanco Skating Center recording: 908-298-7850.

Come back in December for complete listings for winter sports.

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