Batsto Village, Batsto

In the last few years this has become a favorite. Close to home, great trails with changing scenery. Heading back on the white trail is a great way to end any hike no matter what length. You can take the pink for up to 25 miles, or just go for a few and head back. Great hike!

Historical village with precious, rich history of a rich family. We purchased mansion tour tickets, $6 I believe, and it was great! Staff is attentive, knowledgeable and super friendly! I’d love to come back when I get the chance. Everything is so cool!

I'm a NJ native and this place was eye-opening to me. Definitely tour the 1800s mansion, after first seeing the very well done informative movie in the visitor center. Then tour the expansive, beautiful grounds, with lots of restored buildings like an iron forge, grist mill, etc. Wear good walking shoes, bring sun block and bug spray, as well as water. The mansion has many stairs and no elevator, not easy for people with canes. Grounds also are a bit challenging since paths are unpaved.

Entrance fee is waived this summer at all state parks in NJ for all visitors. Today, the mansion was having a tour at 1:30 and 2:30. I didn't get tickets because I've toured it before. A new trail was dedicated today and hikers were guided on it. We arrived after that. It was crowded today but we were able to get a picnic table for my mother's birthday lunch. Dogs are allowed and quite a few people brought their pets with them today. A lot of hikers were also out and about on the trails. The bathrooms in the picnic pavilion were open although I heard the ones in the visit center were closed. Numerous ticks were in the picnic area and on us so be sure to bring bug spray and wear appropriate clothing.

Late fall day, not many visitors, beautiful sunlight on nearly two century old buildings. This is a fascinating historical site and I learned much without referring to any guides or tours, due to good interpretive signs. The grounds are lovely and suited to leisurely strolling.