Are you a nature lover looking for things to do in Jackson, NJ? This Jersey Shore town offers plenty for all ages and, better yet, it’s a short drive from most places in the state. Whether you’d like to check out some nearby hiking trails or interested in taking photos of nature for your Instagram collection, you can pretty much have it all in this area of New Jersey. Here’s just a taste of what you’ll find.
Bunker Hill Bogs
Bunker Hill Bogs is a wildlife recreation area in Jackson, NJ, that’s perfect for those looking for local walking routes. The Purple Heart Trail showcases many former working cranberry bogs, and the area is a popular place to fish, hike, bike, bird watch or just relax. The trail now boasts a self-guided digital nature walk and an informational kiosk located about midway into the trail at the “Tee Junction.” The digital nature walk provides interpretive signs for trail users to learn more about the natural resources and wildlife in Bunker Hill Bogs.
Tip Tam Camping Resort
If you’re into camping, TipTam Camping Resort is just a few miles from Westlake. Open from April 15 through October 31, this family-friendly park accommodates RVs up to 42 ft., 15/20/30/50 amp service, as well as tent sites, and rental accommodations for RVs and cabins. You’ll find plenty of entertainment with shuffleboard, cornhole, mini-golf, hayrides, and more. Nestled in the woods, this cozy escape gives you a real feel of the great outdoors, along with the privacy and comfort of your own space.
Turkey Swamp Park
Parks are always a great place to visit on a beautiful day. Spread over 2,173 wooded acres, Turkey Swamp Park is a park and haven for campers with miles of local walking routes and an archery range. One of the main draws of the area though is a 17-acre lake that’s open for boating, fishing, and ice-skating in the winter.
Beachcomber Camping Resort
Beachcomber Camping Resort is a 100-acre wooded park that’s just four miles to Victorian Cape May beaches, and 45 minutes to Atlantic City casinos. The resort has two sparkling lakes that are perfect if you’re into taking photos of nature, along with lakefront and wilderness accommodations. Golf cart, paddle boat, stand-up paddle board and kayak rentals will keep anyone entertained, and with spring and fall rates and packages, it’s an escape for every family.
Howling Woods Farm
Located in Jackson, this educational facility is situated on a 10 acre forest in the Pinelands National Reserve. With the primary purpose of teaching visitors about the true nature of wolves, the farm also rescues and places a limited number of wolfdog hybrids and northern breed canines. Guided tours of the local walking routes are available by appointment, where you can interact with wolfdogs while learning about wolves, wolfdogs and the farm’s rescue mission.
No matter what you like to do outdoors, you’ll find it all near Westlake Golf & Country Club!