Cheesequake State Park in Matawan is a popular destination for summer revelers and fall hikers looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination. Filled with hiking trails and beautiful lakesides, it has a little something for everyone. But not everyone knows that it features some of the most unique walkways in the Garden State. You can take a hike on a beautiful boardwalk hike and staircase to some of the state’s best views, and then take the only crabbing bridge hike in New Jersey to a spot popular with local fishers. There’s enough in Cheesequake State Park for a memorable day trip filled with adventure and exploration.

Cheesequake State Park is one of Middlesex County's best natural havens, and it's waiting for you to explore.
MitchPhyllis65/TripAdvisor
A rare location where the northern hardwood forests of New Jersey meet the southern pine barrens ecosystem, it's a popular spot for year-round recreation.
Sujit-Mahapatra/TripAdvisor
The park is filled with hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, with most being easy to navigate with only a good pair of hiking boots.
Annie Ziemski/AllTrails
The boardwalk trails are ideal for beginners and will take you past some stunning sites throughout the park.
Dan/TripAdvisor
You'll walk over bridges with great views of the water and the local wildlife.
Theresa R/TripAdvisor

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But if you want to get the best views in Cheesequake State Park, you'll want to head up the elaborate staircases that the boardwalk leads to.
Jeanne732/TripAdvisor
This leads to some of the best spots for viewing fall foliage in all of New Jersey, so get there while the going is good!
Satyr44/TripAdvisor
One of the best spots in Cheesequake is the old crabbing bridge, where you can often see local fishers pulling their catch from the water.
NJ Parks and Forests
The park is also a popular spot for bird-watching, and getting there while migration season is in full swing offers some amazing sights.
NJ Parks and Forests
After a long day of exploring, it's great to just sit back, relax, and let all the life at Cheesequake pass you by. It might be a popular park, but there'll always be a spot to be alone with nature.
NJ Parks and Forests

Have you been to Cheesequake State Park in Matawan? Let us know what you thought of this unique bridge hike in New Jersey and the rest of the park’s features. If you’d like to learn more about the park’s amenities, you can visit the state website for all the details. If you’re looking for another New Jersey adventure, visit this incredibly clear lake.

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Featured Addresses
Cheesequake State Park, 300 Gordon Rd, Matawan, NJ 07747, USA