South Jersey’s Underrated Gems: Natural Wonders, Historic Villages, and Scenic Drives

South Jersey might not always steal the spotlight, but trust me, it’s a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.

While everyone’s busy talking about North Jersey’s cities or the glitzy Jersey Shore boardwalks, South Jersey quietly holds some of the most breathtaking sights in the entire state.

If you’ve ever thought there wasn’t much to see here, get ready to be proven wrong—big time.

What most people love the most about South Jersey is the adventure and relaxation you get here.

You can paddle through a quiet marsh in the morning, explore a historic village in the afternoon, and finish the day with a jaw-dropping sunset over the bay.

So, if you’ve been overlooking South Jersey, it’s time to change that.

Let me guide you through its best spots, from pristine beaches and hidden lakes to quirky roadside attractions and scenic trails.

Let’s explore this underrated gem and see what makes it such a magical place!

Amazing Nature Spots and Outdoor Adventures in South Jersey

South Jersey is full of hidden gems and natural wonders just waiting to be explored.

Here’s a rundown of some of the most beautiful spots to visit.

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge (Atlantic County)

This place is massive—47,000 acres of marshland!

So, it’s a dream come true if you’re into wildlife or want to be surrounded by nature.

You’ll find birds like herons and ospreys hanging out here, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a bald eagle.

The best part is that you can either hike the trails or take the Wildlife Drive, an eight-mile loop that lets you soak in all the views from your car.

Don’t forget your binoculars, though—you’re going to want a closer look at all the action.

Cape May Lighthouse (Cape May County)

Built in 1859, the Cape May Lighthouse stands 157 feet tall and offers one of the most spectacular views in the region.

Visitors can climb the 199 steps to the top and enjoy a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay.

And if you visit during the fall, you’ll also get to see flocks of birds migrating.

Plus, the nearby Cape May Point State Park is a great place to explore after your climb.

Wharton State Forest (Camden County)

If you’re looking for an outdoor playground, you will love Wharton State Forest.

Covering over 122,000 acres in the Pine Barrens, it’s the largest public land in New Jersey, and there’s so much to do.

You can hike, bike, canoe, or even go horseback riding.

Just don’t miss Apple Pie Hill—it’s got a 60-foot fire tower that offers killer views.

For a little history, check out Batsto Village, an 18th-century industrial site.

Greenwich (Cumberland County)

This quiet little town is the definition of peaceful.

Found along the Cohansey River, it’s one of the best bird-watching spots in New Jersey.

Eagles, hawks, waterfowl—you name it, they’re here.

Not to mention, the riverbank is a perfect spot to kick back and take it all in.

There’s also some history to soak up, like the Greenwich Tea Burning Monument.

Two Bridges Wine Trail (Gloucester County)

If you love wine, you’re going to love this trail.

It’s a scenic route that connects some of the best vineyards in the area, each with its own charm and, of course, amazing wine.

You can sip and swirl through places like Autumn Lake Winery and Bellview Winery, enjoying the gorgeous countryside.

Pro tip: check out their seasonal events—there’s always something fun happening.

Mannington Meadows Greenway (Salem County)

Mannington Meadows is a hidden gem that comes alive at sunset.

The wetlands here are so peaceful and full of life—you might spot waterfowl, turtles, and other little critters as you wander the trails.

It’s a great place to unplug and recharge, surrounded by nothing but nature’s soundtrack.

Bring a camera because the sunsets reflecting off the water are downright magical.

Island Beach State Park (Ocean County)

This place is a paradise for beach and nature lovers.

Stretching nearly 10 miles, Island Beach State Park has it all—sandy beaches, rolling dunes, tidal marshes, and a maritime forest.

Perhaps the nicest touch is that you’ll see foxes darting through the dunes and ospreys soaring overhead.

Whether you’re into swimming, fishing, hiking, or just lying on the beach, you’ve found your happy place.

Blue Hole (Monroe Township)

Now, here’s a spot with some mystery!

The Blue Hole is a small, round lake hidden in the Pine Barrens, and it’s as serene as it gets.

The water stays a chilly 60°F year-round, so it’s not exactly a swimming spot, but it’s perfect for a quiet escape.

Surrounded by dense forest, you could almost say it feels like you’ve stumbled into a secret world.

Getting there is part of the adventure—it’s only accessible on foot, so lace up those hiking boots.

Scenic Drives Through South Jersey

The roads in South Jersey are adventures by themselves.

With amazing views, small towns full of charm, and stops that tell stories, these drives are just as exciting as the places they lead to.

So, grab your keys, roll down your windows, and let’s get going.

Route 542 (New Gretna to Hammonton)

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re driving straight into the heart of nature, this is the road for you.

Route 542 cuts right through the Pine Barrens, where you’ll be surrounded by towering trees and sandy paths.

But if you do one thing: make sure you pull over at Batsto Village.

This historic spot, with its old mansion, blacksmith shop, and general store, looks like something out of a history book.

The Mullica and Wading Rivers run nearby, so you’ll also get some peaceful water views to complete the vibe.

Route 9 (Cape May to Toms River)

This route is the real Jersey Shore experience, if that experience had a road.

You’ll cruise along the coast, passing beach towns, seafood shacks, and all the summer energy you could hope for.

Stop at Cape May County Park North for a quiet walk, or swing by Double Trouble State Park to check out cranberry bogs and wooded trails.

With a mix of ocean breezes and small-town charm, this drive screams “day trip goals.”

Ocean Drive (Ocean City to Cape May)

Ocean Drive is the kind of road where you’ll want to stop every five minutes because the views are just that good.

Start in Ocean City and soak in the beauty of Corson’s Inlet State Park.

As you head south, you’ll see marshes, fishing boats, and the salty blue Atlantic stretching out forever.

A good idea is to end your trip at Sunset Lake in Cape May—trust me, you’ve never seen a sunset quite like this one.

Route 49 (Deepwater to Tuckahoe)

Route 49 has a little bit of everything: history, nature, and some cool surprises along the way.

Kick things off with a visit to Salem’s famous 600-year-old oak tree.

Then, keep cruising to the Cohanzick Zoo, which happens to be New Jersey’s first zoo, and wrap things up in Millville.

There, you can check out WheatonArts, a place where glassblowing and art collide in the most amazing way.

Route 539 (Allentown to Tuckerton)

If you love the idea of a quiet, scenic drive with a few quirky stops, Route 539 is perfect.

It’s lined with forests and lakes that make you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere—in the best way.

Stop at Emery’s Berry Farm in New Egypt for fresh-picked fruit or one of their famous pies.

And you have to check out the Naval Air Center in Lakehurst, where you can dive into some seriously cool aviation history.

Route 55 (Deptford to Menantico)

This drive is like cruising through South Jersey’s backyard.

You’ll pass creeks, forests, and parks practically begging you to stop and explore.

Alcyon Lake Park in Pitman is a gem, with colorful flowers and peaceful trails.

If art is down your alley, you should swing by the Glasstown Arts District in Millville.

And for some quiet nature time, check out Menantico Ponds, where it’s just you, the water, and maybe a few curious birds.

Route 40 (Pennsville to Atlantic City)

Route 40 is a straight shot across South Jersey packed with personality.

Start in Pennsville at the Salem County Fairgrounds, or catch a show at the legendary Cowtown Rodeo.

As you head east, you’ll pass Memorial Lake, a serene spot for a quick break, and Lake Lenape, where you can fish, kayak, or chill by the water.

By the time you roll into Atlantic City, you’ll have seen a little bit of everything South Jersey has to offer.

Must-See Historical and Cultural Stops in South Jersey

South Jersey has no shortage of places where history comes alive, and these spots make you feel like you’re part of it.

Let’s check them out!

Batsto Village (Wharton State Forest)

Batsto Village is something else.

This 1700s industrial village was a big deal back in the day for its iron and glass production, and it’s been beautifully preserved.

You can tour the Batsto Mansion, which has 32 rooms and looks straight out of a movie, or visit the general store, blacksmith shop, and sawmill.

It’s tucked inside Wharton State Forest, so you can combine a bit of hiking and nature with your history lesson.

Plus, the nearby Batsto River is sublime, so check it out if you can.

Double Trouble State Park (Bayville)

Interestingly, Double Trouble State Park in Bayville has a unique focus on cranberries and local history.

Yes, cranberries! This park features 200 acres of cranberry bogs where you can learn about New Jersey’s cranberry-growing heritage.

There’s also a historic village with 14 original buildings, like an old sawmill and a general store that shows what life was like in the late 1800s.

If you visit during the right season, you might even catch some cranberry harvesting in action.

And there are wonderful nature trails here, ideal for a little stroll.

Smithville Park (Mt. Holly)

Smithville Park in Mt. Holly offers a slice of history and a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors.

At its heart is the Smithville Mansion, a stunning 19th-century estate you can tour to see how the other half lived back then.

The mansion’s original owner, Hezekiah Smith, was an industrialist, and his home reflects that big-money lifestyle.

Outside, the park has wooded trails, picnic spots, and a floating walkway across the Rancocas Creek.

That walkway is a must-see—it gives you gorgeous views of the wetlands and makes for some awesome photo ops.

A.J. Meerwald (Port Norris)

The A.J. Meerwald is a piece of New Jersey’s maritime history.

This oyster schooner was built in 1928 and used to dredge oysters from Delaware Bay.

These days, it’s been restored and turned into a floating museum.

You can hop aboard for a tour or even join one of the public sails to learn about the state’s oyster industry while cruising on the bay.

It’s such a cool, hands-on way to dive into local history (and the views from the water are pretty amazing, too).

Millville Army Air Field Museum (Millville)

This museum is a must-visit if you’re into planes or World War II history.

The Millville Army Air Field was America’s first defense airfield during the war, and now it’s a museum packed with fascinating exhibits.

You’ll find restored aircraft, vintage photos, and stories about the pilots who trained there.

They even have interactive displays, so it’s a hit with visitors of all ages.

Well, there you have it—a rundown of South Jersey’s best spots, coolest drives, and hidden gems.

Now it’s your turn to explore.

Just remember your camera because you’ll want to capture the sunsets, wildlife moments, and charming historic spots; you’ll be glad you did.