‘Get Outdoors, New Jersey!’ in Cape May County

TRENTON — June is national Great Outdoors Month and this state has jumped on board with its “Get Outdoors, New Jersey!” campaign with plenty of activities at state parks including those in Cape May County.
“For such a small state, New Jersey is packed with virtually limitless opportunities for outdoors adventures – beautiful beaches for strolling and exploring, stunning mountains for hiking and camping, great rivers for fishing and canoeing – and all within easy reach,” Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Bob Martin said in a release. “Turn off your cell phones, break away from your computers, put aside your chores for a little while and get your families into the great outdoors. You’ll be glad you did.”
According to a release, programs offered all month at state parks, forests and wildlife management areas provide exciting opportunities for all ages to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.
“These fun programs will educate, and they will inspire,” Commissioner Martin said. “And they will create a lifetime of memories.”
The Get Outdoors New Jersey website specified events at two local state parks.
On Saturdays in June at the Belleplain State Forest, visitors can enjoy Pond Life at Lake Nummy.
“Join us for a wet and wild search for life in Lake Nummy,” the website stated. “This program explores the animals that live in the waterways at Belleplain State Forest including insects, frogs, turtles and fish. Participants learn life cycles, food chains and water quality testing by looking at insects.”
The program, which is suitable for all ages, begins at 1 p.m and meets at the park’s Interpretive Center. The entrance fee is $10 per car and registration is required; call (609) 861-2404.
On Sundays in June visitors can Explore Nature at Cape May Point State Park.
“June is one of Cape May’s wettest and wildest months,” the website stated. “Use dip nets to explore the puddles along the Red Trail for tadpoles, frogs and insect life. Get a closer look at bugs and spiders with a magnifying glass. Borrow binoculars to look for birds then learn how to look them up in the field guide. Find a tree frog’s secret hideout and finally, do a good deed for wildlife— save a tree’s life by removing some invasive aliens. This old-fashioned outdoors bonding experience provides a chance for kids, parents and grandparents to explore nature together.”
The Explore Nature program, also suitable for all ages, meets at 2 p.m. at the park office. For information, call (609) 884-2159.
The state also scheduled two Free Fishing Days free fishing days in public waters statewide on June 5-6.
The Free Fishing Days are held annually in conjunction with National Fishing and Boating Week. Anyone may fish the Garden State’s public waters without a license or trout stamp.
For more information about programs statewide and a calendar of events, visit getoutdoors.nj.gov