Week of 6/24/2024 - 6/30/2024
Monday Movers: Cedar Swamp and Shawangunk Ridge Trails
High Point State Park, Interpretive Center
24-Jun 10 AM
Description: Join volunteer April Oleksy, on a hike on the Cedar Swamp and Shawangunk Ridge Trails covering approximately 3.5 miles.
Age: Adults, $5 Donation Appreciated
Call (862) 326-1367 or email highpointprograms@dep.nj.gov for more information or to register. Bring water and insect repellent, and sturdy shoes are a must. Some portions of the trail are somewhat steep and strenuous.
Monday Mountaineers! Red Maple --> Acropolis
Stokes State Forest, Lake Ashore parking lot
24-Jun 9 AM
Description: 8.5 miles, Red Maple to Acropolis & back! Difficult hike with steep / uneven terrain, but beautiful views!
Age: ages 12 and up
Pre-registration required. Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/stokes-state-forest-32668228987
Please come prepared with appropriate footwear and layers for the elements! 10 essentials and hiking poles recommended along with water / snacks. Hike will be difficult.
Poets Night
Bass River State Forest, Lake Absegami parking lot
26-June 7 PM
Description: Do you like poetry? Bring your favorite poems, even your own writings! We will meet and sit at Lake Absegami to read and share our favorites. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on.
Age: Ages 16 & up; $2 per person; pre-registration required
Call (609) 296-1114 or email Kaylyn.Ullman@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Weather permitting- Dress for the outdoors and bring bug spray, a light snack, and some water.
Kayak Eco Tour & Sedge Island Center
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
26-June 9 AM
Description: Kayak tour on bayside to Kayak Eco Tour & Sedge Island Center.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Wednesday Walkers
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center Parking lot
26-Jun 9 AM
Description: 2.5-mile social walk on fairly flat, scenic trails through the park
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots and 2 hiking poles are recommended, as are "The Ten Essentials": https://www.outdoors.org/resources/amc-outdoors/gear/the-10-essentials-revisited/
The Historic Trilogy
Liberty State Park, CRRNJ Terminal
26-Jun 10 AM
Description: Power Point Presentation and discussion about the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and CRRNJ Terminal, and the roles they played in immigration.
Age: ages 10 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please meet at the giant flag on the steps inside the CRRNJ Terminal building located at 1 Audrey Zapp Drive. Free parking in Lot #9.
Heddwch Nain/Mam-gu: The Welsh Women’s Peace Petition to the Women of the United States, 1924
Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Sites, Online
26-June 7 PM
Description: The women of Wales, aiming to promote peace in the aftermath of World War I, organized in 1923 an appeal to the women of the United States, urging them to bring their country into the new League of Nations. A delegation of Welsh women brought this appeal to the United States in 1924 on a remarkable journey made possible by the support of American women including women from New Jersey.
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (908) 725-1015 or email wallacedutch@dep.nj.gov for more information.
MS Teams: https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/72b467b2-4903-4b11-ba9b-12ba3f1bac3b@5076c3d1-3802-4b9f-b36a-e0a41bd642a7
Summer Nature LEGO Club
High Point State Park, Interpretive Center
27-Jun 10:30 AM
Description: Join us this summer for mini-lessons and stories combined with a different nature-themed LEGO building challenge each week!
Age: kids ages 6 to 12
Call (973) 875-1471 or email highpointprograms@dep.nj.gov for more information. Pre-registration required at https://highpointstatepark.eventbrite.com
Indoors and outdoors depending on challenges and weather conditions. Alternate building materials will be available to occupy younger siblings.
Sunset Paddle
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
27-June 7 PM
Description: Kayak sunset paddle tour
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Make a Forest
Cheesequake State Park, Nature Center
28-June 11 AM
Description: Join our park a naturalist and build a makeshift forest as we learn about what makes up a forest and its different ecosystems.
Age: all ages
Pre-registration required. https://forms.office.com/g/j9Zv2N8iah
Call (732) 566-3208 or email Dorothy.Brussel@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Monument Scavenger Hunt
High Point State Park, Monument
28-Jun 11 AM
Description: Join us at the top of the mountain to explore the things that make the highest point of New Jersey special while completing a scavenger hunt.
Age: all ages
Call (973) 875-1471 or email highpointprograms@dep.nj.gov for more information. Optional registration at https://highpointstatepark.eventbrite.com
Dress for the weather and be prepared for the possibility of wind and cooler temperatures at the Monument.
IBSP Star Party
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center- Ocean side
28-June 9 PM
Description: Star gazing on ocean side.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Kit & Caboodle Book Club
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center
28-Jun 2 PM
Description: Book discussion group for avid readers and bibliophiles. No monthly reading requirements! BYOTea and favorite reads past or present.
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Come prepared to talk about a favorite book you've read lately; book swapping is encouraged; BYOTea/coffee, snacks provided.
Nature Walk and Craft - Insects
Liberty State Park, Nature Center
28-Jun 10 AM
Description: A nature walk to look for and learn about insects, followed by an insect craft to make and take home with you!
Age: ages 4 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please dress to be outdoors, wear shoes comfortable for walking, and bring binoculars if you have them. If it is a hot day, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are also recommended to bring.
Tea & Poetry
Stokes State Forest, Stony Lake
28-Jun 5 PM
Description: Casual event to share poetry and sip tea! BYOM(bring your own mug) varieties of tea / hot water / honey will be provided.
Age: adults
Pre-registration required. Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/stokes-state-forest-32668228987
Pen / paper for creative writing prompts, poetry books, your own writing to share. Listening welcome, no pressure to share.
Surviving Brendan T. Byrne
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Office
29-Jun 10 AM
Description: Join us on a 2-mile hike at Reeves Bogs and learn all about the dangers of the woods and how to avoid them!
Age: all ages
Please call (609) 415-8442 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Green Trail Hike
Cheesequake State Park, trailhead parking lot
29-June 10 AM
Description: Guided walk through the Green Trail with park naturalists.
Age: all ages
Pre-registration required. https://forms.office.com/g/j9Zv2N8iah
Call (732) 566-3208 or email ariana.galya@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Cranberry Packing House Tour
Double Trouble State Park, Cranberry packing house loading dock
29-Jun 10 AM
Description: Join our village historian for a guided tour of the century-old cranberry packing house.
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (732) 341-4098 or email DoubleTrouble@dep.nj.gov for more information. Registration at DoubleTrouble.Eventbrite.com
Weather permitting. Canceled if steady rain or thunder. No pets.
Endangered Species Of The Pine Barrens
Double Trouble State Park, parking lot
29-Jun 12PM
Description: The Pine Barrens supports many unique and threatened species, many of which are in danger of extinction due to habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. Walk our Nature Trail with us while we discuss New Jersey’s threatened and endangered species, the unique roles they play in their ecosystem, and how we can help them to survive.
Age: all ages
Call (856) 912-2867 or email delaney.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Please wear clothing suitable for outdoor activities (long pants, bug spray, walking shoes, etc). Rain or thunder may cancel.
Sunset Paddle
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
29-June 7 PM
Description: Kayak sunset paddle tour
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Firefly Festival
Tall Pines Preserve, Front Entrance/Main Parking Lot
29-June 8 PM
Description: Half-mile long educational walk to observe the different types of fireflies that appear
Age: all ages
Call (609) 251-0694 or email andrew.crosby@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Musket Firing Demonstration
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum
29-June 2 PM
Description: A Park Historian will speak about the Christmas Night Crossing, the Battle of Trenton and linear Warfare tactics prior to the Musket Firing.
Age: all ages
Call (609) 737-0623 or email clay.craighead@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting.
72 Hours in the Woods
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Office
30-Jun 9 AM
Description: Join us on this 6-mile hike down our Cranberry Trail to find out how to survive 72 hours lost in the Pine Barrens and learn about the plants and animals of the forest.
Age: all ages
Please call (609) 415-8442 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Guided Hike of Red and Blue Trails
Cheesequake State Park, trailhead parking lot
30-June 10:30 AM
Description: Join a park naturalist as we hike the red and blue trails at Cheesequake State Park.
Age: all ages
Pre-registration required. https://forms.office.com/g/j9Zv2N8iah
Call (732) 566-3208 or email ariana.galya@dep.nj.gov for more information.
New Jersey's Declarations of Independence
Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Sites, 71 Somerset Street, Somerville, NJ 08876
30-June 2 PM
Description: Join a dramatic reading with historical discussion of New Jersey’s “Declarations of Independence” featuring documents of the Brunswick Convention of 1774, electing delegates from New Jersey to the First Continental Congress 250 years ago this summer, and the Provincial Congress of 1776.
Age: all ages
Call (908) 725-1015 or email wallacedutch@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Week of 7/1/2024 - 7/7/2024
IBSP HISTORY HIKE
Island Beach State Park, Reeds Road
1-Jul 10 AM
Description: Introduction to Park and Reed Hotel.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
RAISING HAPPY SHELLFISH
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
1-Jul 12 PM
Description: Instruction
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Monday Mountaineers!
Stokes State Forest, Lake Ashore parking lot
1-Jul 9 AM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
SURFING SAFARI
Island Beach State Park, Ocean Side - Swimming Area #1
2-Jul 11 AM
Description: surfing instruction
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Kayak Eco Tour & Sedge Island Center
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
3-Jul 9 AM
Description: Kayak tour on bayside to Kayak Eco Tour & Sedge Island Center.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Wednesday Walkers
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center Parking lot
3-Jul 8:30 AM
Description: 2.5-mile social walk on fairly flat, scenic trails through the park
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots and 2 hiking poles are recommended, as are "The Ten Essentials": https://www.outdoors.org/resources/amc-outdoors/gear/the-10-essentials-revisited/
Trail of the Blue Comet
Liberty State Park, CRRNJ
3-Jul 10 AM
Description: Power Point Presentation and discussion about the famous Blue Comet train, followed by a walk to the original tracks where the Blue Comet ran from.
Age: ages 10 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please meet at the giant flag on the steps inside the CRRNJ Terminal building located at 1 Audrey Zapp Drive. Free parking in Lot #9.
FIREWORKS PADDLE
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
4-Jul 8:30 PM
Description: Bayside kayaking to view fireworks.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Fourth of July Hike
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Waterwheel Farm parking area
4-Jul 10 AM
Description:
Age: all ages
Call (973) 324-0429for more information. Pre-registration required. https://www.meetup.com/paulinskill-valley-trail-committee-hiking-group/
I Hear America Singing
Walt Whitman House Historic Site, Walt Whitman House and Visitor Center
4-Jul 1 PM
Description: Special 1-hour tour of the historic house and garden celebrating America's 248th birthday through the perspective of Walt Whitman's experiences and writings. Following the tour, participants will be given the opportunity to share one of their favorite Whitman poems!
Age: all ages
Please call (856) 964-5383 for more information and to make a reservation.
Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum
4-Jul 2 PM
Description: The Declaration of Independence will be read followed by a Musket Firing Demonstration.
Age: all ages.
Call (609) 737-0623 or email clay.craighead@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Wildfire in the Pine Barrens
Double Trouble State Park, Head of the Swordens Pond (Yellow) Trail, in between the Platt and Sweetwater reservoirs.
5-Jul 9 AM
Description: Join us on a 1.3-mile hike and learn about the dangers and benefits of wildfire in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Please come prepared for outdoor activities (long sleeves and pants, hats, bug spray, sunscreen, etc.). Please arrive early as the meeting location is a 3/4 mile walk from the parking lot.
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email delaney.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Rain or thunder may cancel.
BEGINNER SURF CLINIC
Island Beach State Park, Ocean Side - Swimming Area #1
5-Jul 8 AM
Description: Beginner surfing instruction.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Rid Litter Day
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center
5-Jul 9 AM
Description: 2.5-mile litter pick-up along Goodale Road.
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Gloves, reflective vests, litter pickers, and bags provided.
I Hear America Singing
Walt Whitman House Historic Site, Walt Whitman House and Visitor Center
5-Jul 11 AM and 1 PM
Description: Special 1-hour tour of the historic house and garden celebrating America's 248th birthday through the perspective of Walt Whitman's experiences and writings. Following the tour, participants will be given the opportunity to share one of their favorite Whitman poems!
Age: all ages
Please call (856) 964-5383 for more information and to make a reservation.
Tree Cookie Crafts!
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Nature center
6-Jul 1 PM
Description: Come visit the Nature Center and learn all about trees and make your very own tree cookie!
Age: ages 3-10
Call (609) 726-1190 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Cranberry Packing House Tour
Double Trouble State Park, Cranberry packing house loading dock
6-Jul 10 AM
Description: Join our village historian for a guided tour of the century-old cranberry packing house.
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (732) 341-4098 or email DoubleTrouble@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Weather permitting. Canceled if steady rain or thunder. No pets.
Invasive Species Cleanup Hike
Double Trouble State Park, Head of the Swordens Pond (Yellow) Trail, in between the Platt and Sweetwater reservoirs.
6-Jul 10 AM
Description: Follow along on a trail cleanup hike with a focus on the control of the spread of invasive plants in the Pine Barrens. We will be walking the 1.3-mile Sworden’s Pond Trail. Please bring appropriate clothing for outdoor activities: long pants, wide brimmed hat, walking shoes/boots, bug spray, etc. Please arrive early as the meeting location is a 3/4 mile walk from the parking lot.
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email delaney.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Rain or thunder may cancel.
Clamming by Kayak
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
6-Jul 9 AM
Description: Kayak tour on bayside to include clamming.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
SUNSET PADDLE
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
6-Jul 7 PM
Description: Sunset kayak paddle tour.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Horseshoe Crab Walk
Liberty State Park, 300 Morris Pesin Drive
6-Jul 9:30 AM
Description: Guided walk to Caven Point Beach to search for horseshoe crabs and other beach residents.
Age: all ages
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please dress to be outdoors and wear shoes that can get wet/muddy. If it is a hot day, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are also recommended to bring. Walk is 1 1/2 miles roundtrip.
Earth Flow Yoga & Tea with Karen
Stokes State Forest, Sunrise Mountain parking lot
6-Jul 10 AM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
I Hear America Singing
Walt Whitman House Historic Site, Walt Whitman House and Visitor Center
6-Jul 11 AM and 2 PM
Description: Special 1-hour tour of the historic house and garden celebrating America's 248th birthday through the perspective of Walt Whitman's experiences and writings. Following the tour, participants will be given the opportunity to share one of their favorite Whitman poems!
Age: all ages
Please call (856) 964-5383 for more information and to make a reservation.
Musket Firing Demonstration
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum
6-Jul 2 PM
Description: A Park Historian will speak about the Christmas Night Crossing, the Battle of Trenton and linear Warfare tactics prior to the Musket Firing.
Age: all ages. $1 per person.
Call (609) 737-0623 or email clay.craighead@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting.
Pakim Pond Nature Walk
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Pakim Pond
7-Jul 10 AM
Description: Join us on a half-mile hike on the Nature Trail and learn all about the ecosystem around Pakim Pond and get a chance to see some mysterious carnivorous plants!
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Sedge Island Kayak Eco Tour
Island Beach State Park, Nature Center / Bayside - A16
7-Jul 9 AM
Description: Kayak tour through Sedge Islands.
Age: all ages
Call (732) 793-0506 for more information.
Weather permitting. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen.
Earthing & Journaling
Stokes State Forest, Sunrise Mountain parking lot
7-Jul 8:30 AM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
I Hear America Singing
Walt Whitman House Historic Site, Walt Whitman House and Visitor Center
7-Jul 2 PM
Description: Special 1-hour tour of the historic house and garden celebrating America's 248th birthday through the perspective of Walt Whitman's experiences and writings. Following the tour, participants will be given the opportunity to share one of their favorite Whitman poems!
Age: all ages
Please call (856) 964-5383 for more information and to make a reservation.
Week of 7/8/2024 - 7/14/2024
Monday Mountaineers!
Stokes State Forest, Stony Lake parking lot
8-Jul 8:30 AM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Wednesday Walkers
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center Parking lot
10-Jul 8:30 AM
Description: 2.5-mile social walk on fairly flat, scenic trails through the park
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots and 2 hiking poles are recommended, as are "The Ten Essentials": https://www.outdoors.org/resources/amc-outdoors/gear/the-10-essentials-revisited/
Nature Walk and Craft - Insects
Liberty State Park, Nature Center
12-Jul 10 AM
Description: A guided walk to look for some common garden insects and an insect craft to make and take home.
Age: ages 4 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please dress to be outdoors, wear shoes comfortable for walking, and bring binoculars if you have them. If it is a hot day, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are also recommended to bring.
Evening Paddle - Kayak Ashroe
Stokes State Forest, Lake Ashroe parking lot
12-Jul 6 PM
Description: All equipment provided, kayak / paddle / life jacket. Beginners welcome! Please come prepared with appropriate footwear / layers for the elements. Waterproof layers recommended.
Age: ages 8 and up
$20 a person. Pre-registration required. Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
History of the Pine Barrens
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Forest office
13-Jul 9 AM
Description: From millions of years ago, to the American Revolution and the Civilian Conservation Corps, learn everything there is to know about the history of the Pinelands on this 6-mile hike down the Cranberry Trail!
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Art in the Park: Watercolor Painting
Double Trouble State Park, outside packing house
13-Jul 9 AM
Description: Swing by for a chance to learn more about watercolor painting and to see the Packing House, as well as the Gowdy bog, in a new light. Paint, paper, paintbrushes, paint board, etc. all provided. Bring a towel or beach chair if you wish to sit. Rain or thunder may cancel this event.
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email delaney.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Cranberry Packing House Tour
Double Trouble State Park, Cranberry packing house loading dock
13-Jul 10 AM
Description: Join our village historian for a guided tour of the century-old cranberry packing house.
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (732) 341-4098 or email DoubleTrouble@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Weather permitting. Canceled if steady rain or thunder. No pets.
Morning Paddle - Kayak Ashroe
Stokes State Forest, Lake Ashroe parking lot
13-Jul 10 AM
Description: All equipment provided, kayak / paddle / life jacket. Beginners welcome! Please come prepared with appropriate footwear / layers for the elements. Waterproof layers recommended.
Age: ages 8 and up
$20 a person. Pre-registration required. Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Songs & Stories of the American Revolution
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum
13-Jul 2 PM
Description: Dressed in colonial clothing and performing rousing period songs and stories, Matthew Dodd will take you back in time to the days of the American Revolution. Mr. Dodd sings and plays the guitar, banjo, mandolin and recorder throughout the show.
Age: all ages.
Call (609) 737-0623 or email clay.craighead@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Birdhouse Crafts!
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Nature center
14-Jul 1 PM
Description: Wanna make your own birdhouse? Come visit us at the Nature Center and learn all about birds and why they help us while you make your very own birdhouse!
Age: ages 3-10
Call (609) 726-1190 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Call the office in order to register.
Low Tide Beach Walk
Liberty State Park, Lot #1 300 Morris Pesin Drive
14-Jul 10 AM
Description: A guided walk to Caven Point Beach to explore the shoreline, and maybe see some horseshoe crabs as well!
Age: all ages
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please dress to be outdoors and wear shoes that can get wet/muddy. If it is a hot day, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent is also recommended. The walk is 1 1/2 miles roundtrip.
Flower Pounding class
Stokes State Forest, Stony Lake pavilion
14-Jul 1 PM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Revolutionary War to Farewell Tour: Lafayette’s New Jersey
Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Site, 71 Somerset Street, Somerville, NJ 08876
14-Jul 2 PM
Description: Learn about upcoming events marking the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s Farewell tour beginning August 2024, and examine the evidence indicating whether or not “Lafayette slept here” in the Wallace House’s purported “Lafayette’s Room.”
Age: ages 10 and up
Please call (908) 725-1015 or email wallacedutch@dep.nj.gov
Week of 7/15/2024 - 7/21/2024
Monday Mountaineers!
Stokes State Forest, Sunrise Mountain parking lot
15-Jul 8:30 AM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Guided Sawmill Tour
Double Trouble State Park, Village sawmill
16-Jul 10 AM
Description: Join our village historian for a guided tour of the century-old sawmill on this 115th anniversary of the Double Trouble Company.
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (732) 341-4098 or email DoubleTrouble@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Weather permitting. Canceled if steady rain or thunder. No pets.
Wednesday Walkers
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center Parking lot
17-Jul 8:30 AM
Description: 2.5-mile social walk on fairly flat, scenic trails through the park
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots and 2 hiking poles are recommended, as are "The Ten Essentials": https://www.outdoors.org/resources/amc-outdoors/gear/the-10-essentials-revisited/
Tales from the Morris Canal
Liberty State Park, CRRNJ Terminal
17-Jul 10 AM
Description: Power Point Presentation and discussion about the historic Morris Canal, followed by, weather permitting, a walk to what remains of the canal today.
Age: ages 10 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please meet at the giant flag on the steps inside the CRRNJ Terminal building located at 1 Audrey Zapp Drive. Free parking in Lot #9.
Creatures of the Night
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Pakim Pond
19-Jul 8 PM
Description: Learn all about the nocturnal creatures of BTB on this half-mile hike around Pakim Pond. Beware! The Jersey Devil may be lurking behind any tree
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (609) 726-1190 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Guided Nature Hike
Double Trouble State Park, outside village restroom
19-Jul 9 AM
Description: Join our naturalist for a guided walk down the beautiful Mill Pond Trail. This shady hike will be a little over a mile in length.
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email delaney.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Rain or shine, thunder may cancel. Bring rain gear if precipitation is forecasted.
Nature Walk and Craft - Plants
Liberty State Park, Nature Center
19-Jul 10 AM
Description: A guided walk to look for some common important native plants and a plant craft to make and take home.
Age: ages 4 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please dress to be outdoors, wear shoes comfortable for walking, and bring binoculars if you have them. If it is a hot day, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are also recommended to bring.
Reptiles of the Pine Barrens
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Reeves Bogs
20-Jul 9 AM
Description: Snakes, turtles, and lizards are all over the Pine Barrens! Join us on a 4.5-mile hike down the Mt. Misery, Cranberry, and Lebanon Trails and learn all about these rad reptiles!
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Art in the Park: Watercolor Painting
Double Trouble State Park, outside packing house
20-Jul 9 AM
Description: Swing by for a chance to learn more about watercolor painting and to see the Packing House, as well as the Gowdy bog, in a new light. Paint, paper, paintbrushes, paint board, etc. all provided. Bring a towel or beach chair if you wish to sit. Rain or thunder may cancel this event.
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email delaney.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Cranberry Packing House Tour
Double Trouble State Park, Cranberry packing house loading dock
20-Jul 10 AM
Description: Join our village historian for a guided tour of the century-old cranberry packing house.
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (732) 341-4098 or email DoubleTrouble@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Weather permitting. Canceled if steady rain or thunder. No pets.
Fabulous Fungi
Liberty State Park, Nature Center
20-Jul 10 AM
Description: A guided walk and discussion about various types of fungi found in Liberty State Park.
Age: ages 10 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please dress to be outdoors, wear shoes comfortable for walking, and bring binoculars if you have them. Sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are also recommended.
Morning Paddle - Kayak Ashroe
Stokes State Forest, Lake Ashroe parking lot
20-Jul 10 AM
Description: All equipment provided, kayak / paddle / life jacket. Beginners welcome! Please come prepared with appropriate footwear / layers for the elements. Waterproof layers recommended.
Age: ages 8 and up
$20 a person. Pre-registration required. Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Build an Eco-Jar
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum
20-Jul 2 PM
Description: Join us for a beautiful day exploring nature and creating your very own Eco-Jar! Follow Courtney as she guides you through the wonders of ecosystems. Bring your old jars and a sense of adventure, and leave with a vibrant, self-sustaining terrarium that's both educational and eye-catching. Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with nature and bring a piece of it home with you!
Age: all ages.
Call (609) 737-0623 or email clay.craighead@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Arabella Barlow Day: Civil War Surgeon's Demonstration & Soldier's Encampment
Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Site, 71 Somerset Street, Somerville, NJ 08876
21-Jul 2 PM
Description: For Arabella Barlow Day, meet a surgeon of the 4th N.J. Volunteer Reg't and see a demonstration of Civil War medicine. Enter a small Civil War encampment and encounter a New Jersey soldier’s experience of the Civil War.
Age: all ages
Please call (908) 725-1015 or email wallacedutch@dep.nj.gov
This program concludes a series made possible the Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage Association with the sponsorship of New Jersey Council for the Humanities, a state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Summer Sunday Lecture Series: Revolutionary Rations: Feeding the Army
Washington Crossing State Park, Visitor Center Museum
21-Jul 1 PM
Description: Learn how the Continental Army was fed throughout the war. Join Historian Julie Power as she discusses and demonstrates different ways feeding the army was accomplished. Presentation at 1pm followed by ongoing demonstrations until 4pm.
Age: all ages
Call (609) 737-0623 or email wcspmuseumprograms@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Week of 7/22/2024 - 7/28/2024
Monday Mountaineers!
Stokes State Forest, Lake Ocquittunk family campground
22-Jul 8:30 AM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Wednesday Walkers
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center Parking lot
24-Jul 8:30 AM
Description: 2.5-mile social walk on fairly flat, scenic trails through the park
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots and 2 hiking poles are recommended, as are "The Ten Essentials": https://www.outdoors.org/resources/amc-outdoors/gear/the-10-essentials-revisited/
Kit & Caboodle Book Club
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center
26-Jul 2 PM
Description: Book discussion group for avid readers and bibliophiles. No monthly reading requirements! BYOTea and favorite reads past or present.
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Come prepared to talk about a favorite book you've read lately; book swapping is encouraged; BYOTea/coffee, snacks provided.
Monarch Magic
Liberty State Park, Nature Center
26-Jul 10 AM
Description: Come on out to Liberty State Park and get up close and personal with the monarch butterfly with a craft to make and take home with you.
Age: all ages
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please dress to be outdoors, wear shoes comfortable for walking, and bring binoculars if you have them. If it is a hot day, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are also recommended to bring.
Storytelling SLAM!
Stokes State Forest, Stony Lake pavilion
26-Jul 6 PM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Wildlife of Pakim Pond
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Pakim Pond
27-Jul 10 AM
Description: Learn all about the wildlife of Pakim Pond and the diverse ecosystem brimming with life along the water's edge! This half-mile hike is suitable for all ages!
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (609) 726-1190 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Art in the Park: Sketching Nature
Double Trouble State Park, outside packing house
27-Jul 9 AM
Description: There’s a lot to see when you take a walk through the Pine Barrens, but there's also lots to draw! Tag along and choose an animal, landscape, tree, bug, or plant to sketch. Please bring your own pencil and paper, and a chair or towel if you wish to sit.
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email delaney.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Rain or thunder may cancel this event.
Cranberry Packing House Tour
Double Trouble State Park, Cranberry packing house loading dock
27-Jul 10 AM
Description: Join our village historian for a guided tour of the century-old cranberry packing house.
Age: ages 10 and up
Call (732) 341-4098 or email DoubleTrouble@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Weather permitting. Canceled if steady rain or thunder. No pets.
Wildflower Wander
Stokes State Forest, Lake Ashroe parking lot
27-Jul 9 AM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Forest Bingo
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, Pakim Pond
28-Jul 8 PM
Description: Visit Pakim Pond and indulge in a game of forest bingo! We're going to hike 1.5 miles along our Nature and Mt. Misery Trails, stopping along the route to observe wildlife. The winner is the first individual to have enough animals and plants on their card to call Bingo!
Age: all ages
Call (609) 726-1190 or email finn.westphal@dep.nj.gov for more information. Weather permitting. Bring water and wear bug spray.
Shorebird Walk
Liberty State Park, Nature Center
28-Jul 10 AM
Description: A guided bird walk to learn about and look for visiting summer shorebirds and resident species as well.
Age: ages 5 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please dress to be outdoors, wear shoes comfortable for walking, and bring binoculars if you have them. Sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are also recommended.
Morning Paddle - Kayak Ashroe
Stokes State Forest, Lake Ashroe parking lot
28-Jul 10 AM
Description: All equipment provided, kayak / paddle / life jacket. Beginners welcome! Please come prepared with appropriate footwear / layers for the elements. Waterproof layers recommended.
Age: ages 8 and up
$20 a person. Pre-registration required. Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Continental Congress & Common Cause: New Jersey's Brunswick Resolves of 1774
Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Site, 71 Somerset Street, Somerville, NJ 08876
28-Jul 2 PM
Description: Observe the 250th anniversary of New Jersey's Brunswick Convention, appointing delegates from New Jersey to the First Continental Congress and joining New Jersey to the "common cause" of the Thriteen Colonies, with a reading and historical discussion of the Brunswick Resolves, adopted at the Brunswick Convention’s conclusion, for an encounter with New Jersey on the edge of the American Revolution in the summer of 1774.
Age: ages 10 and up
Please call (908) 725-1015 or email wallacedutch@dep.nj.gov
Week of 7/29/2024 - 7/31/2024
Monday Mountaineers! Going Batty!
Stokes State Forest, Main Park Office
29-Jul 8:30 AM
Description:
Age:
Call (973) 948-3820 or email sarah.king@dep.nj.gov for more information.
Wednesday Walkers
Kittatinny Valley State Park, Visitor Center Parking lot
31-Jul 8:30 AM
Description: 2.5-mile social walk on fairly flat, scenic trails through the park
Age: adults
Call (973) 786-6445 for more information. Pre-registration required at KVSP.eventbrite.com
Sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots and 2 hiking poles are recommended, as are "The Ten Essentials": https://www.outdoors.org/resources/amc-outdoors/gear/the-10-essentials-revisited/
Explosion at Black Tom
Liberty State Park, CRRNJ
31-Jul 10 AM
Description: Power Point Presentation about the history and sabotage of Black Tom and a trip to what remains of the area today in the park.
Age: ages 10 and up
Pre-registration required. Please call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email LSPNatureCenter@dep.nj.gov.
Please meet at the giant flag on the steps inside the CRRNJ Terminal building located at 1 Audrey Zapp Drive. Free parking in Lot #9.
Official Site of The State of New Jersey
