Discover the Tranquility of the Great Swamp
Experience the serene beauty of the Great Swamp in New Jersey, a premier wetland destination for wildlife observation and outdoor adventure.
The Great Swamp in New Jersey is a serene wetland paradise, perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from urban life. Spanning over 7,000 acres, it offers diverse wildlife and scenic trails perfect for exploration.
A brief summary to Great Swamp
- New Jersey, US
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the swamp is home to many migratory species.
- Wear sturdy shoes as some trails can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Check the visitor center hours for educational programs and events.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, take I-287 to Exit 30 for US-202 S/US-206 S. Follow US-202 S for approximately 3 miles, then turn left onto Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge Road. Continue straight until you reach the refuge entrance. Parking is available on-site, and there is no fee to enter the refuge.
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Public Transportation
To reach Great Swamp via public transportation, take NJ Transit train service to the Morristown station. From there, transfer to the Morris County Community College shuttle bus (check the schedule for availability) that heads towards the Great Swamp area. Once you arrive at the nearest stop, walk approximately 1 mile following Great Swamp Road to reach the entrance of the refuge. Make sure to plan your trip ahead, as shuttle services may have limited hours.
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Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling, bike paths are available along some roads leading to Great Swamp. If you are starting from nearby towns like Morristown, you can follow the local bike routes to US-202 S. Once you reach Great Swamp Road, continue cycling straight until you arrive at the entrance. Ensure you have a helmet and are aware of local traffic regulations.
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Walking
If you're already in the vicinity of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and wish to walk, find your way to Great Swamp Road and follow it towards the refuge entrance. Depending on your starting point, this could take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Discover more about Great Swamp
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Bird Parking Lot - Great Swamp
6.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Blue Bird Parking Lot - Great Swamp, a peaceful retreat for nature lovers in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Buttermilk Falls
18.5 km
Explore Buttermilk Falls in Martinsville, NJ - a breathtaking hiking area with stunning waterfalls and scenic trails for every nature lover.
1 Municipal Plaza
21.5 km
Explore the vibrant Municipal Plaza in Bloomfield, a community hub showcasing local culture, events, and charming architecture.
James Parker Printing & Books
22.9 km
Explore the rich history of literature at James Parker Printing & Books, a unique historical landmark and bookstore in Woodbridge, NJ.
Dey Mansion Washington's Headquarters
27.2 km
Step into history at Dey Mansion, where General George Washington strategized during the Revolutionary War, and explore America's rich past.
FlyNYON Helicopter Tours
27.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New York City with FlyNYON Helicopter Tours, offering unforgettable aerial experiences and stunning views.
Sandy Ground Historical Society Inc.
27.5 km
Discover the rich heritage of Staten Island at the Sandy Ground Historical Society, a museum dedicated to African-American history and culture.
Site of Historic Roosevelt Stadium - 1937-1985
28.0 km
Discover the rich history of Roosevelt Stadium, a historic landmark in Jersey City that once echoed with the cheers of sports fans and concert-goers.
Western most point of New York City
28.8 km
Explore the Westernmost Point of New York City, a hidden gem on Staten Island offering stunning views, rich history, and serene coastal beauty.
New York City Farm Colony
28.9 km
Discover the rich history of the New York City Farm Colony, a captivating historical site that tells the story of social reform in early 20th century New York.
The Blejer's lighthouse
29.0 km
Discover the historic charm and stunning views at The Blejer's Lighthouse in Passaic, New Jersey, a must-see landmark for every traveler.
Jersey City Free Public Library: Earl A. Morgan Branch
29.1 km
Explore the vibrant Jersey City Free Public Library: Earl A. Morgan Branch, a community hub for knowledge, culture, and creativity during your visit.
Garret Mountain Reservation
29.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife at Garret Mountain Reservation, a must-visit park in Woodland Park, NJ, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lambert Tower-Garret Mountain Reservation
29.3 km
Explore Lambert Tower at Garret Mountain Reservation – a historic gem with stunning views and serene nature trails in New Jersey.
Pedestrian Underground Walkway
29.4 km
Experience the unique charm and rich history of Clifton, NJ's Pedestrian Underground Walkway, a hidden gem for tourists and locals alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge Wilderness Area
1.9 km
Experience the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a breathtaking retreat for nature lovers in New Jersey.
Saltbox Museum
3.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of New Providence at the charming Saltbox Museum, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Escape Room NJ Madison
4.1 km
Experience the thrill of adventure and teamwork at Escape Room NJ Madison, where every puzzle leads to unforgettable memories.
Museum of Early Trades & Crafts
4.2 km
Discover the art of craftsmanship and history at the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts in Madison, NJ, where trades of the past come alive for every visitor.
Great Swamp Wildlife Observation Center
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife at Great Swamp Wildlife Observation Center in New Jersey, a hidden gem for nature lovers.
Great Swamp Lookout (Harding Township)
4.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Great Swamp Lookout in Harding Township, NJ, a perfect destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Loantaka Brook Reservation
5.9 km
Explore Loantaka Brook Reservation, a serene park in Morristown, NJ, perfect for nature walks, family picnics, and outdoor adventures.
The Deserted Village
6.4 km
Discover the Deserted Village: A Historic Retreat Amidst Nature's Beauty in New Jersey's Watchung Reservation.
The Raptor Trust
6.5 km
Explore The Raptor Trust in Millington, NJ, a sanctuary devoted to the rescue and rehabilitation of stunning birds of prey and wildlife conservation.
Watchung Reservation
6.6 km
Explore Watchung Reservation, a stunning park in New Jersey, perfect for hiking, history, and enjoying nature's beauty.
Great Swamp Watershed Association - Conservation Management Area
6.8 km
Explore nature's sanctuary at Great Swamp Watershed Association in Morristown, NJ – a perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and wildlife.
Trailside Nature & Science Center
6.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and educational experiences at Trailside Nature & Science Center in Mountainside, NJ, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Reeves-Reed Arboretum
7.2 km
Discover the enchanting Reeves-Reed Arboretum, a botanical haven and historical landmark in Summit, NJ, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Friends of Great Swamp Natl
7.7 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich wildlife of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful escape in New Jersey's natural landscape.
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
7.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a wildlife haven in New Jersey perfect for birdwatching, hiking, and nature exploration.
Essential places to dine
Garlic Rose Bistro
13.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Garlic Rose Bistro in Cranford - where fresh ingredients meet innovative flavors in a cozy setting.
Mama Rosina's
19.9 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Mama Rosina's in Bound Brook - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Cuban Pete's
20.8 km
Discover authentic Cuban cuisine at Cuban Pete's in Montclair - where vibrant flavors meet festive ambiance.
Rainforest Cafe
21.4 km
Experience the thrill of dining in the jungle at Rainforest Cafe in Edison, NJ—where adventure meets delicious American cuisine.
Miller's Ale House
22.3 km
Experience vibrant American cuisine at Miller's Ale House in Rockaway – where delicious meals meet a lively sports bar atmosphere.
Lorenzo’s Restaurant, Bar & Cabaret
24.9 km
Savor exquisite Italian dishes and vibrant cabaret performances at Lorenzo’s Restaurant on Staten Island – where dining meets entertainment.
Destination Dogs
25.6 km
Discover Destination Dogs in New Brunswick: A hotspot for gourmet hot dogs and craft drinks blending tradition with innovation.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
25.9 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Mount Arlington – where every meal feels like home.
Angelina's Restaurant
28.1 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Angelina's Restaurant in Staten Island - where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.
Laico's
28.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Laico's in Jersey City, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Blue
29.0 km
Discover the culinary delights of Blue Restaurant in Staten Island – where classic American cuisine meets modern flair.
Wendy's
29.4 km
Experience delicious fast food at Wendy's Lake Hopatcong - where quality meets affordability amidst beautiful surroundings.
Al-Basha Quick Serve
29.9 km
Discover authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Al-Basha Quick Serve in Paterson—where flavor meets hospitality in every dish.
Istanbul Grill House Turkish Restaurant
29.9 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Istanbul Grill House in Paterson – where every dish tells a story.
NJ Restaurant
29.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Paterson at NJ Restaurant, where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great Swamp Greenhouses
3.9 km
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The Mall at Short Hills
6.3 km
Explore luxury shopping, fine dining, and a vibrant atmosphere at The Mall at Short Hills, New Jersey's premier shopping destination.
The Collective
6.7 km
Explore The Collective in Summit, NJ, for a unique consignment shopping experience featuring stylish women's clothing and accessories.
Sustainable Haus Mercantile
7.4 km
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Just Jersey
8.3 km
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23 South
8.8 km
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Sierra
10.7 km
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Naughty, But Nice Couple's Boutique
11.7 km
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Regalo Gift Shop
11.8 km
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MyUnique Thrift
12.1 km
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MEUS
13.1 km
Explore MEUS in Maplewood, NJ: A charming gift shop offering handmade treasures, unique jewelry, and stylish women's clothing for memorable souvenirs.
No. 165
13.3 km
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Inspirations Stores
14.3 km
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Tech Toys
16.3 km
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INspirations
17.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Trap Rock Restaurant & Brewery
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The Prospect Tavern
4.0 km
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Bottle Hill Tavern
4.1 km
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54 Main Bar & Grille
4.2 km
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Encore Speakeasy & Wine Bar
4.2 km
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Vintage Tavern
5.3 km
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Bar Cilento
7.4 km
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The Stirling Hotel
7.6 km
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Red's Mobile Bar
7.9 km
Experience the joy of personalized mobile bar services with Red's Mobile Bar in Stirling, NJ, perfect for weddings, parties, and gatherings.
Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen
8.5 km
Experience the fusion of American and Italian cuisine at Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, a premier dining destination in Morristown, NJ.
Minuteman Whiskey Bar & BBQ
8.6 km
Experience the best of barbecue and whiskey at Minuteman Whiskey Bar & BBQ in Morristown, NJ, where flavor meets warmth in every bite.
End of Elm
8.7 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at End of Elm, a stylish bar and restaurant in Morristown, NJ, featuring exquisite cocktails, tapas, and an inviting atmosphere.
Tavern off the Green
8.7 km
Discover the charming Tavern off the Green in Morristown, NJ - a cozy bar with delightful food and drinks, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration.
26 Tavern
8.7 km
Indulge in exquisite American cuisine at 26 Tavern, a fine dining gem in Basking Ridge, NJ, perfect for memorable dining experiences.
Homestead Bar & Kitchen
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious local flavors at Homestead Bar & Kitchen in Morristown, NJ, perfect for tourists seeking a memorable dining experience.
