Moving & Relocation

What are the best outdoor activities in South Jersey?

By Bob Millaway July 26, 2026

Short Answer

South Jersey offers abundant outdoor recreation. The Pine Barrens provide hiking, biking, and kayaking through unique forest ecosystems. The Delaware River offers boating, fishing, and scenic views. Numerous county parks like Laurel Acres Park in Mount Laurel and Amico Island in Delran have walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields. The region also has golf courses, nature preserves, and wildlife refuges. The nearby Jersey Shore beaches are about an hour drive from most of Burlington County, offering ocean swimming, boardwalks, and summer fun.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love about South Jersey. The Pine Barrens, a unique ecosystem covering over one million acres, offers hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and kayaking through pristine forests and rivers. The Batona Trail is a 50-mile hiking trail through the heart of the Pine Barrens. The Delaware River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are numerous boat ramps and riverfront parks. County parks are abundant throughout Burlington County. Top parks include Laurel Acres Park in Mount Laurel with its lake, walking trails, and playgrounds; Amico Island Park in Delran with river views and trails; and Smithville Park in Eastampton with historic buildings and gardens. The region has over 30 golf courses, both public and private. For wildlife viewing, visit the Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in Oceanville or the Palmyra Cove Nature Center. And of course, the Jersey Shore is about an hour's drive from most of Burlington County. Popular beaches include Long Beach Island, Ocean City, Wildwood, and Cape May. The Pine Barrens also offer hunting, fishing, and off-road vehicle trails in designated areas.

Bob Millaway

Bob's Advice

Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent

One of the best things about living in South Jersey is the access to outdoor recreation. I have spent my whole life exploring the Pine Barrens, fishing the Delaware River, and enjoying the county parks. When I help clients choose a neighborhood, I always point out the nearby parks and recreation opportunities. If you love the outdoors, South Jersey is a fantastic place to call home. Let me help you find a home near the activities you enjoy most.

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