Corson’s Inlet State Park
New Jersey State Park

Corson’s Inlet State Park

Ocean City, NJ
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Bird Watching
  • Kayaking

🌤 Weather at Corson’s Inlet State Park by season

SpringSummerFallWinter
31–76 °F60–88 °F34–80 °F25–50 °F

Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Belleplain Stn Forest, 9 mi away, elevation 30 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.

Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated March 2026

Corson’s Inlet State Park is a public state park in New Jersey near Ocean City in Cape May County. Spanning 341 acres and established in 1963, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.

Quick Facts

StateNew Jersey
Nearest CityOcean City
CountyCape May
Park Size341 acres
Established1963
Google Rating⭐ 4.6/5 (500 reviews)

Location & Getting There

Corson’s Inlet State Park is located near Ocean City, New Jersey. The park’s coordinates are 39.2000, -74.6833.

Things to Do

New Jersey state parks defy the state’s industrial reputation, protecting vast tracts of wilderness including the unique Pine Barrens, Appalachian ridgetops, and wide Atlantic beaches. Visitors can hike sections of the Appalachian Trail, kayak through the tea-colored waters of the Pinelands, swim at ocean or glacial lake beaches, fish in well-stocked streams, and camp in deep forest. The state also preserves crucial moments in American history, offering tours of key Revolutionary War sites, battlefields, and historic villages.

Best Time to Visit

Fall (September–October) is arguably the best time, offering cool hiking weather, beautiful hardwood foliage in the northern parks, and fewer bugs in the Pine Barrens. Summer (June–August) is peak season for coastal parks and lake swimming, but inland parks can be hot, humid, and buggy. Spring brings excellent birding during the coastal migration and good conditions for trout fishing. Winter is quiet, perfect for solitary hikes and, occasionally, cross-country skiing when snow falls.

Visitor Tips

Entrance fees are typically charged from Memorial Day through Labor Day ($5-$10 per vehicle for residents, $10-$20 for non-residents). A State Park Pass ($50 for residents) covers parking for the season. In the heavily forested Pine Barrens (like Wharton State Forest), ticks are extremely common from early spring through late fall; use strong insect repellent and perform thorough tick checks. Coastal parks like Island Beach State Park often fill to capacity by mid-morning on summer weekends, so arrive very early.

Explore More New Jersey State Parks

Corson’s Inlet State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New Jersey. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New Jersey guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

Wildlife & Nature

Corson’s Inlet SP — 344 acres of undeveloped barrier beach and dynamic dune system. Piping plovers (federally threatened) and least terns nest on the sand. Horseshoe crabs spawn in May. Dolphins swim offshore.

Nearby Attractions

Ocean City — adjacent. Sea Isle City — adjacent.

Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Corson Inlet State Park (a short drive away) and Somers Mansion (a short drive away).

America's State Parks is an independent online guide to the state parks of the United States. Our editorial team compiles and reviews each park profile from official state park agency sources and other primary references, and follows a published editorial and review methodology (see /editorial-review-methodology/). We update profiles and correct errors on an ongoing basis.

🐾 Dogs & Pets at Corson’s Inlet State Park

Pets allowed? statewide rule
Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites.
Leash rule statewide rule
Leash 6 feet or less, with the pet under physical control at all times.
Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
Pets are prohibited from swimming beaches and swimming waters statewide.
Cabins & lodging statewide rule
Pets are prohibited from cabins/lodging; the Pet Friendly Camping Program designates campsites at 13 areas (e.g. Round Valley all sites, Allaire 1-8, Bass River 1-85, Stokes 101-137) for up to two dogs or cats per permit.
Pet fees statewide rule
$5.00 per night additional charge for a pet-friendly campsite; no day-use pet fee.
Statewide exceptions statewide rule
Pet Friendly Camping requires current rabies vaccination with written proof at check-in; caged birds/reptiles only allowed inside RVs.

Are dogs allowed at Corson’s Inlet State Park?
Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.

Rules verified July 2026 via dep.nj.gov. More: New Jersey state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared

Last updated: May 13, 2026

Park Location

Ocean City, NJ

Plan your gear for Corson’s Inlet State Park

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