14 Secret Spots In New Jersey Where Nature Will Completely Relax You

The natural beauty of New Jersey often gets overlooked by outsiders. We're seen as a mass of freeways and factories, but that's far from the case. Residents know the truth - incredible landscapes can be found throughout the state. We have mountains, lakes, woodlands, waterfalls and so much more! Many of these spots are ideal for relaxation, as science shows that connecting with nature can significantly reduce stress. Here are some of our favorite places to enjoy nature in New Jersey:

1. Columbia Wildlife Management Area, Knowlton

This Warren County wildlife area offers views of fields, forests, mountains and the Delaware River. It's worth every single second.

Address: Idle Lake Road, Columbia, New Jersey, 07832

2. Deep Cut Gardens, Middletown

Surround yourself with spectacular foliage and vibrant plant life! Open 365 days a year, the 52-acre gardens are FREE for everyone to enjoy!

Address: 152 Red Hill Road, Middletown Township, New Jersey, 07748

3. Seven Mile Island, Stone Harbor

Stone Harbor is an ideal town for nature lovers! Take a stroll on the beach, visit the Wetlands Institute, or explore the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary!

4. Sunfish Pond, Hardwick

This gorgeous glacial lake is surrounded by acres of forest.

5. Duke Farms, Hillsborough

This incredible estate filled with gardens, lakes, wildlife, and water features is free to enjoy! A photographer's paradise, Duke Farms also makes for an incredibly relaxing day trip.

Address: 1112 Dukes Parkway West, Hillsborough Township, New Jersey, 08844

6. Wetlands, Dennisville

These pristine wetlands in Cape May County offer a peaceful place to ponder the meaning of life...or what's going to be for dinner!

7. Buttermilk Falls, Layton

The sound of the rushing waterfall is sure to soothe you!

Address: Mountain Road, Layton, New Jersey, 07851

8. Spring Lake Beach, Spring Lake

Early morning and off-season beach trips can be incredibly calming without the crowds.

Address: Spring Lake, New Jersey, 07762

9. Jenny Jump State Forest, Hope

This photo of Ghost Lake highlights New Jersey's beautiful fall foliage.

Address: 330 State Park Road, Hope, New Jersey, 07844

10. Ringwood Manor, Ringwood

Ringwood Manor is home to the gorgeous New Jersey Botanical Gardens and is surrounded by the magnificent Ramapo Mountains.

Address: 5 Morris Road, Ringwood, New Jersey, 07456

11. Parvin State Park, Pittsgrove

This southwestern state park is located on the edge of the New Jersey Pinelands. Enjoy both pine and swamp hardwood forests, along with scenic Parvin Lake. Lay back and immerse yourself in the diverse wildlife and greenery.

Address: 701 Almond Road, Pittsgrove, New Jersey, 08318

12. The Red Mill Museum Village, Clinton

If you want to enjoy nature without being completely surrounded by it, head to the Red Mill. One of the most photographed places in the U.S., it sits on the banks of the scenic Raritan River.

Address: 56 Main Street, Clinton, New Jersey, 08809

13. Colonial Park, Somerset

This 685-acre park includes scenic frontage on both the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal and the Millstone River. Recreation facilities, prize winning horticultural displays, and pristine natural areas are scattered amongst the spacious lawns and charming ponds!

Address: 156 Mettlers Road, Somerset, New Jersey, 08873

14. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Worthington State Forest

When you're standing atop a mountain looking out on the world, problems just seem smaller. This beautiful park is located in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and the address is on the PA side!

Address: 1978 River Road, Bushkill, Pennsylvania, 18324

This is only a small selection of all the incredible places in New Jersey where we can relax in nature, dozens more could be added to the list! Share your top picks and photos with me in the comments or on the Only In New Jersey Facebook Page.