Bass River Township New JerseyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bass River Township, New Jersey.
1. Bass River State Forest
HISTORIC STATE RECREATION AREA
Bass River State Forest was the first forest acquired by the state of New Jersey in 1905 for public recreation and water conservation. The forest features Lake Absegami, a 67-acre lake created in the 1920s that serves as the center for recreational activities including swimming, boating, and canoeing. Visitors can enjoy various amenities including picnic areas, trails for hiking and horseback riding, and cross-country skiing in winter months.
2. Absegami Natural Area
PRISTINE CEDAR BOG ECOSYSTEM
Absegami Natural Area offers a serene trail through pine/oak woods and a small Atlantic white cedar bog. This 128-acre wetland forest showcases Atlantic white cedars sharing the canopy with red maple and magnolia trees. Nature enthusiasts can observe the diverse ecosystem while enjoying a peaceful walking experience along well-maintained paths.
3. Batona Trail
FIFTY-MILE HIKING ADVENTURE
The Batona Trail runs for fifty miles through Bass River State Forest, Wharton State Forest, and Lebanon State Forest. This easy walking trail is well-marked with pink blazes and crosses streams while passing through forested areas that were once bustling historic towns. The trail is maintained by the NJ State Park Service and the Batona Hiking Club, providing hikers with a comprehensive Pine Barrens experience.
4. Adams-Leek-Mckeen Cemetery
REVOLUTIONARY WAR HISTORIC SITE
The Adams-Leek-Mckeen Cemetery is a significant Revolutionary War site in Bass River Township. This historic cemetery contains the graves of early settlers and Revolutionary War veterans who shaped the region's history. Visitors can explore the weathered headstones while learning about the area's role in America's fight for independence.
5. Lake Absegami
SCENIC RECREATIONAL WATERFRONT
Lake Absegami is a 67-acre lake within Bass River State Forest that offers swimming with shower facilities for visitors. The lake provides a serene setting for boating and canoeing, with electric motors only permitted and a dedicated boat launch area. Fishing enthusiasts can also enjoy casting their lines in this picturesque lake surrounded by pine forests.
6. Historic Smithville
CHARMING VILLAGE EXPERIENCE
Historic Smithville is a restored colonial village featuring over 60 shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings. Visitors can stroll along cobblestone walkways while exploring unique specialty shops, antique stores, and boutiques offering everything from handcrafted items to gourmet foods. The village hosts seasonal events throughout the year including holiday light shows, car shows, and craft fairs that draw visitors from across the region.
7. Tuckerton Seaport
MARITIME HERITAGE MUSEUM
Tuckerton Seaport is a living history maritime village that celebrates the area's rich baymen heritage and coastal traditions. The 40-acre site features reconstructed historic buildings, interactive exhibits, and demonstrations that showcase traditional boat building, decoy carving, and other maritime skills. Visitors can climb the recreated Tucker's Island Lighthouse, explore the connected boardwalk nature trail through the wetlands, and participate in hands-on activities throughout the year.
8. Smithville Peanut Butter Company
ARTISANAL FOOD DESTINATION
Smithville Peanut Butter Company offers visitors a unique culinary experience featuring freshly made peanut butter in various flavors. This specialty shop allows customers to watch as peanuts are transformed into creamy and crunchy butter varieties with add-ins ranging from chocolate to honey. Visitors can sample different flavors before purchasing jars of their favorites to take home as delicious souvenirs.
9. Jersey Shore Live Steam Organization/The Tuckerton Railroad
VINTAGE TRAIN EXPERIENCE
The Jersey Shore Live Steam Organization operates The Tuckerton Railroad, offering miniature train rides and displays that celebrate railroad heritage. Visitors can experience rides on scaled-down versions of historic trains that once traversed the region. Train enthusiasts can learn about local railroad history while enjoying family-friendly activities in a nostalgic setting.
10. Pinelands Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER TASTING ROOM
Pinelands Brewing Company is a local craft brewery that produces beer inspired by the unique ecosystem of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. The taproom offers visitors the opportunity to sample various craft beers while learning about the brewing process and the local ingredients that make their beverages distinctive. Brewery tours provide insight into craft beer production while fostering appreciation for the region's natural resources that contribute to their signature flavors.
11. Gillian's Wonderland Pier
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AMUSEMENT PARK
Gillian's Wonderland Pier is a popular amusement park featuring classic rides and attractions for visitors of all ages. The park offers a mix of thrill rides, family rides, and kiddie attractions in a clean, safe environment along the Ocean City boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Ferris wheel with panoramic views of the ocean and coastline while creating lasting family memories.
12. Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach
BOARDWALK ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach offers a combination of amusement park rides and water attractions along the Jersey Shore. The pier features thrilling roller coasters, classic carnival games, and family rides with ocean views that have delighted visitors for generations. Adjacent Breakwater Beach water park provides slides, pools, and water activities perfect for cooling off during summer visits.
13. Clementon Park & Splash World
HISTORIC AMUSEMENT DESTINATION
Clementon Park & Splash World is one of America's oldest operating amusement parks, combining classic rides with modern water attractions. The park features roller coasters, thrill rides, and family attractions alongside a water park with slides, wave pools, and splash areas. Visitors appreciate the park's blend of nostalgia and contemporary entertainment options that appeal to multiple generations.
14. Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
COASTAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge protects more than 47,000 acres of coastal habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the 8-mile Wildlife Drive that winds through salt marshes, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography. The refuge offers hiking trails, observation platforms, and educational programs that highlight the importance of wetland conservation.
15. Renault Winery Resort
HISTORIC VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
Renault Winery Resort is one of the oldest continuously operating wineries in the United States, established in 1864. The historic property features wine tastings, vineyard tours, a gourmet restaurant, and a golf course, offering a complete resort experience. Visitors can explore the antique glass museum housing one of the largest collections of American-made glass while learning about the winery's fascinating history spanning more than 150 years.