public use
NJNLT

As of January 1, 2017, the Trust was responsible for approximately 30,000 acres located throughout the state. These lands are managed as a system of over 100 nature preserves.

Deer hunting is allowed at many of the Trust's preserves with written Trust authorization because the Trust believes that a reduction of the deer population will reduce the negative effects of deer browsing on biodiversity. Those who visit during the deer hunting season (between September and February) are advised to wear hunter orange. Click here for hunter registration.

Natural Lands Trust preserves are open from dawn to dusk for passive recreation uses such as hiking, birding and nature study. Many people volunteer to conduct clean ups and other authorized maintenance at Trust preserves. All visitors and volunteers at the preserves are reminded that Trust preserves are unimproved / undeveloped rural or semirural land and the Trust shall not be liable if a person is injured because of any natural risks or hazards that are inherent characteristics of such land. In addition, all collected trash and debris must be legally disposed; no trash or debris may be left at preserves without the Trust’s written permission.

PROHIBITED on Trust Preserves:

    New Jersey Natural Lands Trust
  • Dumping or littering
  • Use of motorized vehicles except on public roads
  • Use of ATVs, quads, 4-wheelers, snowmobiles, wave-runners or other vehicles
  • Camping
  • Fires or fireworks
  • Alcohol possession or use
  • Swimming
  • Climbing trees
  • Hunting for deer without written Trust permission
  • Hunting for bear, turkey, small game or waterfowl
  • Hunting on Sundays
  • No baiting or feeding wildlife, including while hunting
  • Carrying or use of firearms or weapons other than for authorized deer hunting
  • Collection, harassment, or destruction of plants, fungi, animals, rocks, cultural artifacts, or fossils
  • Use of gas, electric or battery-powered landscaping equipment
  • Use of drones
  • No unleashed pets. Due to the threat it poses to biodiversity, all pet waste must be picked up and disposed of off-site

iNaturalist App

iNaturalistWhen visiting a Trust preserve consider using the iNaturalist app to document the animals and plants you observe! Your observations can help the Trust identify habitat and management needs! How to use the iNaturalist app:

  • Download the iNaturalist application on your mobile device
  • Visit a Trust preserve!
  • When ready, tap "Observe"
  • Add one or more photos as evidence (or upload photos from your camera later)
  • Enter what you saw - or what you think you saw. When and where you saw it should be added automatically. Save your observation.
  • Share what you find with friends on Facebook or Twitter through iNaturalist