South Mountain Reservation Is A Family Friendly Park In New Jersey

Essex County Park System is the oldest park system in the country, and its enormous South Mountain Reservation is home to just about everything you could hope to find in a park. If you’re looking for a family-friendly day trip destination, head to this complex of natural wonders, man-made entertainment, fairies, and wildlife!

New Jersey’s South Mountain Reservation covers more than 2,000 acres in Essex County and offers just about everything you could hope for in a family-friendly park.

AllTrails / He Jia

There are miles and miles of hiking trails, including some that take you to towering, tumbling cascades.

AllTrails / Sudeshna Maiti

One of the hiking trails has a fairy house forest! These tiny homes were crafted with natural materials by the caretaker of the fairy trail. Be careful not to damage them!

Facebook / South Mountain Fairy Trail

There’s a dog park in the preserve, too, so your best pal can play and make some friends while burning off their excess energy.

Essex County Parks

Speaking of excess energy… if you come to South Mountain Reservation with kids, you’ll want to explore the South Mountain Recreation Complex, too.

Wikimedia Commons / z22

Here, you’ll find an outrageously cool mini golf course that’s both fun and challenging.

Facebook / South Mountain Reservation Complex

No visit to South Mountain is complete without a stop at the Turtle Back Zoo, too.

Facebook / Turtle Back Zoo

This small, well-maintained zoo started off with just local wildlife, but has expanded to feature animals from all over the globe.

Google Local / Jason Huang

Read all about how There Are Magical Fairy Houses Hiding At South Mountain In New Jersey Just Like Something Out Of A Storybook more information on the New Jersey Fairy Trail, and for information about the Turtle Back Zoo, take a peek at their website.