This New Jersey Forest Offers Trails and Prime Fishing

New Jersey's state parks are incredible, and as the weather starts to warm up, everyone seems to know it! Even some lesser-known state parks and forests tend to be packed with people in the spring, summer, and fall. That makes this season a perfect time to discover some destinations they haven't found yet - including the Garden State's many incredible county parks. One of my favorites is Willingboro Lakes Park, an underrated forest in New Jersey, surrounded by a network of lakes, with a small but loyal audience of hikers and fishers. It's home to plenty of recreation options as well as a charming 1.7-mile easy hike, the Willingboro Lakes Loop. This is a great way to see the splendor of the park before you settle into your favorite spot for a day of recreation.

Willingboro Lakes Park is a little slice of heaven, rarely crowded and always easy to access. Located not far from the Pennsylvania border, it's home to popular amenities like a playground, picnic area, and a kayak launch.

The park's signature feature is its 1.7-mile trail, which offers an amazing way to see the waterfront and the surrounding woods. This is a great spot to see some local wildlife, too; it's a popular spot for birders.

The trail is rated easy, and much of the park is accessible via a boardwalk. Some of the areas in the woods may require a bit of balance on a narrow walkway, but this should be a great beginner's hike for anyone looking to explore a unique and beautiful local park.

Most people who come here are avid fishers, and you'll find several fishing piers along your hike. The main lake is usually stocked with catfish, bass, perch, and more, but fishing is catch-and-release and requires a valid state fishing license.

Have you had a chance to explore Willingboro Lakes Park before? If not, tell your favorite fishing or hiking buddy and explore this little slice of heaven for yourself! You can see more information about the amenities on the Burlington County website, and check out the official AllTrails trail listing for more pictures of the hiking trail! If you're new to hiking, a subscription to AllTrails + can help you keep your bearings with point-by-point directions.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.