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The Enigmatic Fairy Cave

Discover the enchanting Fairy Cave in Great Meadows, NJ: a historical landmark with natural beauty and intriguing folklore in Jenny Jump State Forest.

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Tucked away in Great Meadows, NJ, the Fairy Cave is a small but historically significant cave in Jenny Jump State Forest. Known for its intriguing rock formations and past archaeological finds, including Lenape artifacts and extinct animal remains, it offers a glimpse into the region's natural and human history.

A brief summary to The Fairy Cave

  • Great Meadows, Great Meadows, New Jersey, 07838, US
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the trails to the cave can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
  • Check local weather conditions before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Be cautious when exploring the cave, as it is rugged and untamed.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, start from Great Meadows, NJ, and head towards Jenny Jump State Forest. The Fairy Cave is near Ghost Lake, off Shades of Death Road. Park in the dirt lot at Ghost Pond. Note that the lot is bumpy and parking can be limited, so arrive early. There are no fees for parking. From the parking area, a faint path leads to the cave along the rocky shoreline of Ghost Lake.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Fairy Cave via public transport, take a NJ Transit train to Hackettstown Station. From there, take a taxi or rideshare service to the Fairy Cave in Great Meadows, as public transportation options are limited in the rural area. The taxi ride is approximately 15-20 minutes and may cost $25-$35. Confirm the location with the driver to ensure you reach the correct address in Great Meadows, NJ.

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Discover more about The Fairy Cave

The Fairy Cave, also known as Faery Hole, is a captivating historical landmark nestled in the scenic Great Meadows of New Jersey. This small cave, located in Jenny Jump State Forest near Ghost Lake, allures visitors with its natural beauty and a sense of mystery. The cave itself is relatively small, with an entrance approximately 15 feet wide and 6 feet high, extending about 30 feet into the cliffside. Inside, the space narrows, requiring visitors to hunch down to explore further. Despite its size, the Fairy Cave holds a significant place in local history and folklore. In 1936, Dr. Dorothy Cross of the New Jersey State Museum led an excavation of the cave, unearthing over 10,000 bones and artifacts. Among the notable discoveries was a tooth from an extinct giant beaver, a unique find in New Jersey, as well as Lenape Indian artifacts, providing evidence of the area's early inhabitants. The cave is associated with local folklore, adding to its enchanting atmosphere. Some tales speak of the cave's magical qualities and hidden treasures. Today, visitors can explore the Fairy Cave and the surrounding nature trails. The hike to the cave from the parking lot at Ghost Pond is short but involves navigating a rocky shoreline. While the trail is not clearly marked, the adventure of discovering this hidden gem adds to its appeal.

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