Parvin State Park is a wonderful state park in Salem County, New Jersey. The park is located near the Pine Barrens. It includes areas of pine trees as well as hardwood forests. The history of the park is interesting. Prior to the United States involvement in World War II, the park was home to a wildlife conservation camp. During the war, it served as a summer camp for children of Japanese Americans and later a German POW camp. The history of the park is no doubt colorful, but the park today is the sight of great recreation and natural beauty. Here are some activities you can enjoy at Parvin State Park.
Camping is very popular at the park. The park has over fifty different campsites that allow tents and vehicles. Campsites include picnic areas, grills, bathrooms, and showers. There are also playgrounds and laundry rooms within walking distance. The sites allow for RVs as well as tents. If you prefer, you can rent fully furnished cabins for reasonable fees. These cabins feature amenities like electricity, stoves, bathrooms, and running water. A four room cabin costs about $45 a night. A six room cabin is around $65 a night. Compared to the price of a hotel, that is a real bargain. Cabins usually fill up fast so it is a good idea to book them far in advance. Camping maps and rules are available in the park office as well as being posted throughout the park.
Parvin State Park is also home to a great natural area. You can experience swamps, pine areas, hardwood areas, and oak forests. There are a variety of trails that you can go on to enjoy these areas. Different trails have different physical intensity levels. If you want a good workout, consider one of the more challenging trails. If you just want a casual stroll through the woods, consider one of the easier trails. There are tons of wildlife species that you can see on the various trails. These include a large variety of birds as well as some endangered species in the area. The Parvin Natural Area is almost five hundred acres. That gives you plenty of room to explore all of the natural elements in the park.
If you are looking to enjoy a picnic, you have many areas to choose from in Parvin State Park. You and your family can enjoy one of several areas that include tables, grills, and bathroom facilities. If you have a large group, you can reserve a pavilion. This is great for work outings or family reunions. Large group rentals require a fee, but general picnic areas are open to the public at no charge.
Fishing and boating are two other activities available in the park. There are three major areas designated for these activities. Parvin Lake, Thundergust Lake, and Muddy Run allow boats. Gas powered boats are not allowed in any of the three lakes. Electric boats are permitted as are sailboats, canoes, and kayaks. There are several areas in which you can launch your boat in to each lake from either a trailer or the roof of your car. Swimming is allowed in Parvin Lake only during designated hours. The swimming area includes changing rooms, a snack booth, first-aid area, and a beach with lifeguards. Check the park office for specific rules and regulations regarding what is and is not allowed in the swimming area.
Seasonal fishing is allowed in each of the three lakes. There is a variety of cold and warm weather fish. New Jersey has rules regarding what fish can be caught and when so it is important to be aware of that before visiting. Hunting is also available in designated areas. There is a variety of species that are allowed to be hunted in specific seasons. The park posts regulations regarding which areas are open to hunting.
Parvin State Park is open to all the activities you expect in a great state park. The camping sites are beautiful and the large wilderness area gives you a lot to explore. The three main water areas provide a variety of options for fishing and boating. It’s a great place to spend a day or several days. Few parks offer such a variety of trees and natural landscapes to enjoy.