Fabulous Fall Birding at New Jersey's Great Egg

General Info: Great Egg Harbor National Scenic and Recreational River, near Atlantic City in southeastern New Jersey, sits within the Pinelands National Reserve. The 129-mi. river system starts as a trickle in Berlin, NJ then gains 17 tributaries before meeting the Atlantic Ocean at Great Egg Harbor.

Hours and Fees: Entrance to the park is free. The corridor is open daily, but hours vary depending on which part of the river you want to visit. For visitor information call (215) 597-5823.

Activities: This is one of the best places on the East Coast for birding! You’ll see warblers and other migratory species in spring and fall. Hawks come through the Cape May area each fall, so take a look at the fall birding guide for tips on what to see when and where.

You can also enjoy biking, hiking, boating, canoeing and fishing. The best stretch for canoeing is the 22 miles between Penny Pot County Park and Atlantic County Park at Lake Lenape.

Stop by the Warren E. Fox Nature Center, the park’s headquarters, for nature displays, brochures, and maps. The staff on hand can answer your questions, and there are restrooms in the building as well. Don’t miss the live animal displays of native critters you may encounter on a nature walk through the woods. Located at Estell Manor Park, 3.5 miles south of Mays Landing on Route 50.

Weather: Expect typical northeast temperatures and conditions with four distinct seasons.

Camping Info: You can stay at an RV park in the nearby town of Hammonton, which will put you in between the river and Wharton State Forest. Indian Branch Park Campground features dirt RV campsites with full hookups (30 amp) and room for slideouts. Back-in sites measure 40×50 ft. and are mostly shaded.

If you’d rather be closer to Atlantic City, then try Best Holiday Trav-L-Park Holly Acres in Egg Harbor City, or Turtle Run Campground in the town of Wading River (also close to Long Beach Island). Both are pet friendly and have room for slideouts.

If you’re from the Garden State or have visited Great Egg Harbor in the past, please chime in with your stories and tips! Your insights can help others have a fantastic trip.