Cape May Point State Park wilderness guide
State Park · NJ

Cape May Point State Park

Cape May Point State Park is a coastal retreat known for its diverse ecosystems, historic lighthouse, and migratory bird populations.

State Park2443+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

244

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cape May Point State Park

Cape May Point State Park is a coastal retreat known for its diverse ecosystems, historic lighthouse, and migratory bird populations.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cape May Point State Park, located in southern New Jersey, spans approximately 244 acres along the Atlantic shoreline. The park is renowned for its varied habitats, including dunes, freshwater marshes, ponds, forested areas, and open beaches. This ecological diversity supports a rich variety of plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, especially birdwatchers. The park is strategically positioned along the Atlantic Flyway, offering prime opportunities to observe migratory birds, particularly during spring and fall migrations. In addition to its natural allure, the park features the iconic Cape May Lighthouse, built in 1859, which stands as a testament to the area's maritime history and offers visitors panoramic views from its summit. The park provides several trails that meander through its different ecosystems, allowing guests to enjoy hiking and wildlife observation. As an attractive site for both leisure and educational purposes, Cape May Point State Park draws thousands of visitors annually.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cape May Point State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cape May Lighthouse – a historic structure offering panoramic views✦ Hawk Watch Platform – premier spot for observing migratory birds✦ Plover Pond – a peaceful setting home to various wetland species✦ Nature Trails – routes that traverse diverse ecosystems and scenic landscapes
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cape May Point State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cape May Point State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cape May Point State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cape May Point State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cape May Point State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cape May Point State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

West Cape May, New Jersey
⌖ 1.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

West Cape May, New Jersey

West Cape May is a tranquil coastal town perfect for birdwatching, biking, kayaking, and beachcombing. Its calm waters, protected wildlife areas, and charming streets provide endless outdoor adventure opportunities.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Cape May, New Jersey
⌖ 2.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May, NJ, is a historic seaside haven for beach lovers and bird watchers alike. Discover its Victorian charm, coastal adventures, and unique wildlife.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Lower Township, New Jersey
⌖ 3.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lower Township, New Jersey

Lower Township, NJ is a coastal playground for paddlers, anglers, bikers, and bird watchers. From quiet beaches to protected marshlands, it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers seeking tranquil outdoor adventures near Cape May.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Wildwood Crest, New Jersey
⌖ 7.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wildwood Crest, New Jersey

Wildwood Crest, New Jersey, offers sun-filled beaches, scenic bike paths, and vibrant watersports like surfing and kayaking. This charming shore town is an ideal spot for outdoor lovers looking for beach days, bird watching, and unforgettable sunsets.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Rio Grande, New Jersey
⌖ 7.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rio Grande, New Jersey

Rio Grande, NJ is a peaceful coastal town perfect for outdoor lovers looking to hike, kayak, bike, and fish along the Jersey Shore. With nearby parks, birding hotspots, and quiet beaches, it’s a great base for exploring Cape May's natural beauty.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Wildwood, New Jersey
⌖ 8.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wildwood, New Jersey

Wildwood, NJ is a vibrant beach town with wide sandy shores, a bustling boardwalk, and plenty of outdoor fun like biking, kayaking, and fishing. Perfect for families and outdoor lovers seeking coastal adventure in the warmer months.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cape May Point State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

AirFest at NAS Wildwood: A Day Among Legendary Warbirds and Festival Fields
ADVEXPEDITION
Lower Township, New Jersey
Air ActivitiesADV Bookable

AirFest at NAS Wildwood: A Day Among Legendary Warbirds and Festival Fields

A one-day aviation celebration at Naval Air Station Wildwood that pairs static displays of historic aircraft and a museum collection of 26+ planes with live music, vendors, and hands-on family activities—this guide tells you what to expect and how to plan your visit.

Air ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Luminaries and Lagers: An Autumn Evening at Village By Candlelight
ADVEXPEDITION
Cape May, New Jersey
Guided TourADV Bookable

Luminaries and Lagers: An Autumn Evening at Village By Candlelight

A guided, three-hour autumn evening at Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May—follow lantern-lit paths to restored buildings for a Fall Foliage Wine & Beer Tasting, light fare, costumed interpreters and early holiday shopping.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
CSI: Inside a Mafia Club — A Who-done-it Escape in Cape May
ADVEXPEDITION
Cape May, New Jersey
AttractionADV Bookable

CSI: Inside a Mafia Club — A Who-done-it Escape in Cape May

An Escape Cape May attraction that places teams inside an upstairs VIP lounge of an exclusive Mafia Club to investigate a multi-victim murder; this guide explains the premise, setting, and what to expect.

AttractionPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Race the Tide: Recover the Sacred Tibetan Bell at Cape Inn
ADVEXPEDITION
Cape May, New Jersey
History TourADV Bookable

Race the Tide: Recover the Sacred Tibetan Bell at Cape Inn

A time‑pressed, clue-driven history quest around Cape Inn in Cape May—this guide explains the stakes, the route, and how to work the one‑hour window while searching the inn and its surroundings.

History TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip