New Jersey is full of beautiful nature, and the Pine Barrens may be the best-known natural area in the state. In southwestern New Jersey, Parvin State Park rests on the far edge of the Pine Barrens. This diverse nature reserve is full of the famous pine forests of this region, but also a swamp hardwood forest. The 465-acre natural area is complemented by a variety of facilities and outdoor activity areas. Our Vineland DWI lawyers love taking family trips here during the summertime and immersing ourselves in New Jersey's beautiful nature.
Natural Area
The Parvin Natural Area stretched for 465 acres along the edge of the Pine Barrens. On a hike through here, you'll see several different characteristics and species native to southern New Jersey and the Pine Barrens. Different geological areas found here include hardwood and Atlantic white cedar swamps, pitch pine lowlands, and upland pine and oak forest. You also may even catch a glimpse of a state-threatened barred owl or endangered swamp pink. Several different trails run through the Natural Area, so this is a great place to enjoy a picturesque and fairly challenging hike.
Camping
Parvin State Park has plenty of camping facilities which make it easy to enjoy a natural getaway. Campsites include the following facilities:
- 56 tent and trailer sites
- Fire rings
- Picnic tables
- Lantern hooks
- Playground
- Flush toilets
- Showers
- Laundry facilities
- Handicap-accessible facilities
- Group campsites
New Jersey residents pay $20 per night, while non-residents are charged $25. If you want to get out in nature but are more of a cabin person than a camper, there are also 18 cabins onsite with the following features:
- Furnished living room with fireplace and woodburning stove
- Outdoor campfire rings
- Two bedrooms
- Kitchen with running water, electric stove, and refrigerator
- Bathroom with sink, toilet, and shower
- Electricity
- Brick patio with table and grill
- 2 handicap-accessible cabins
- Playground
Swimming
Located within the Parvin State Park, Parvin Lake has a lifeguard-staffed beach where you and your family can enjoy some fun in the water. This section of the park has parking areas, a bathhouse, a first-aid station, canoe rental, and a concession stand with snacks, drinks, novelties, and beach supplies. On either side of the beach, you'll find Picnic Groves, which have tables, grills, and playgrounds.
Boating
There is a public boat launch located at an area of the park called Fisherman's Landing. This launch point is open to the public from sunrise to sunset year-round. Only electric-motor boats are allowed on Parvin Lake. You can purchase a required permit from the park office between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day.
Picnicking
Parvin State Park is an excellent setting for a family picnic or large group gathering. They have several picnic areas with tables and grills spread across the park. If you have a larger group, you can book one of two reservable picnic areas. Facilities include flush toilets, running water, picnic tables, and activity and sport fields.
