I’ve Been Gatekeeping 3 Little-Known State Parks in New Jersey

You might be surprised to learn that there are over 50 state-managed protected areas in New Jersey. This includes 42 state parks and 11 state forests! With so many natural areas to explore, you could spend a decade visiting all of them and still not feel like you’ve made a dent. Of course, some state parks are more popular than others, like Liberty State Park, Island Beach State Park, and High Point State Park—some of the most popular state parks in New Jersey. But what about the lesser-known ones? These local gems in New Jersey offer equally beautiful natural landscapes and fewer crowds, a win-win in my book. 

These three state parks in New Jersey often go overlooked, and that’s a shame! They’re all deserving of a visit, especially since they’re all pretty close to each other.

Stephens State Park

Stephens State Park is an 805-acre park in western Morris County. The Musconetcong River flows through the park, and it’s one of the best freshwater fishing spots in New Jersey, especially for trout! Visitors to the park can also see the remains of one of the original Morris Canal’s 23 locks, plus a section of the towpath that was built in 1831. The entire project was abandoned in the 1900s once the railroad was built, but it is a fascinating little glimpse of history to check out while you’re here. 

During the winter months, the park is a great place to go cross-country skiing. Once the snow melts, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking are the best ways to explore the park. There are six miles of marked trails within Stephens State Park. Just make sure to check the park’s website before you go to stay up to date on any trail closures or advisories. 

Camping at Stephens State Park is allowed from April to October. There are 39 campsites available; online reservations can be made ahead of time.

Allamuchy Mountain State Park

Clocking in at over 9,000 acres, Allamuchy Mountain State Park is a true outdoor lover’s playground. If you don’t have any luck fishing at Stephens State Park, just head up the river to Allamuchy Mountain State Park! The two parks are right next to each other, and the Musconetcong River flows through both. 

There are more than 14 miles of marked trails and another 20 of unmarked hiking and biking trails here. It can get tricky, since the trails at Stephens State Park and Allamuchy Mountain State Park kind of weave in and out of each other, but there’s a handy dandy trail map that the state has put together so you can plan your route. 

History lovers will thoroughly enjoy a visit to Waterloo Village, a restored 19th-century canal town that’s an open-air museum in the park. Near the village, you’ll also find the rock-climbing area (rock-climbing waivers are required). 

Kittatinny Valley State Park

Last, but certainly not least, on our list of local gems in New Jersey is Kittatinny Valley State Park. This 5,656-acre state park offers a little bit of everything: glacial lakes, limestone outcroppings, fishing, hiking, and endless wildlife viewing opportunities. There’s even an airport here! Plane watching is a popular pastime. 

In addition to being a fishing hot spot, Kittatinny Valley State Park is home to four lakes, including Lake Aeroflex, the deepest natural lake in New Jersey. 

Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding opportunities await at the park, too. There are several trails within the park, including four rail-trails. The longest rail-trail (Paulinskill Valley Trail) stretches for 27 miles, but there are a couple of four-mile rail-trails (Great Valley Rail Trail and the Lehigh & Hudson River Trail) that are perfect for an afternoon adventure. 

Share this article with your fellow adventurer and start making plans to visit one (or all) of these local gems in New Jersey soon! Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.