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Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

, NJ

National Parks
4 (5 reviews)

Where are we going?

Address: 32 Pleasant Plains Rd, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA How do we get there? Number: 973-425-9510
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Attractions Family Days Out
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About this activity

There are over 550 refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System which give families just like yours a chance to really explore some incredible habitats, and witness some pretty impressive wildlife!

One of the them is the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge located in New Jersey and not far from the bright lights of New York City!

Today, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge consists of nearly 8,000 acres of a number of different habitats, as well as over 200 species of birds, muskrat, fish, turtles, fox, deer and those beautiful wildflowers. 

There are a number of activities in the refuge which are perfect for families, and experiences that kids won't be forgetting in a long time! First of all, there is the wildlife!

The Wildlife Observation Center is the best place to start. Here, you can head out on the 1.5 miles of board walk where you can explore a number of habitats, as well as try and spot a number of the many species that call the refuge home.  If you LOVE those colorful birds, then don't miss the three permanent bird blinds which can be found along the boardwalk.

If you want to enjoy the 2 mile auto tour tour, which you can also walk along if you want, then you can encounter many more opportunities to observe creatures like the bluebirds, hawk and woodcock.

If you're lucky, you might spot that iconic bald eagle!

For the more adventurous there are 8 miles of hiking trails, as well as an incredible 3,660 acres for those truly adventurous hikers!

Photographer lovers don't forget your camera because there certainly will be a number of photo opportunities just for you! 

Amazing nature for the whole family! 

Activity location

How much does it cost?

Hilton

Adults

Free

Hilton

Children

Free

Hilton

Last Updates

2022

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge FAQ’s

The parks and recreation go out of their way to look after the refuge, so help them out and keep the area clean just like they do!

Why not bring a picnic and enjoy some lunch within nature!

Make sure you wear waterproof footwear or old sneakers, because deer flies and ticks might be around.

If you want to organize a tour, just contact the visitor center at least a month in advance - they can offer you tours and educational programs!

The trails are only open to foot travel.

Pets aren't allowed in most areas, including the Wildlife Observation Center and the boardwalks.

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