Tall Pines State Preserve
New Jersey’s Former Golf Course Nature Area — 110-Acre State Preserve, 4+ Miles of Paved Trails, Birding and Hiking, Dog-Friendly, Former Golf Course Conversion, Dawn-to-Dusk Access, Deptford/Mantua Township Gloucester County New Jersey
Tall Pines State Preserve is a 110-acre state preserve in Deptford Township and Mantua Township (Sewell), Gloucester County, New Jersey, created on the site of a former golf course. The preserve features over 4 miles of mostly paved trails (former golf cart paths), excellent birding opportunities, hiking and walking paths, cycling routes, fishing, leashed-dog access, dawn-to-dusk hours, and a Friends group maintaining the property.
From Golf Course to Nature Preserve
Tall Pines represents a growing trend in conservation — the conversion of former golf courses into public green spaces. The property’s former cart paths now serve as mostly paved trails that wind through a landscape transitioning from manicured fairways back toward a more natural state. This unique origin gives the preserve a distinctive character — open meadows and scattered mature trees interspersed with areas of regrowth, creating a variety of habitats attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Trails and Recreation
The preserve offers over 4 miles of trails, primarily following the former golf cart paths. The paved surface makes these trails relatively accessible for walkers of various abilities, though some sections may be cracked or uneven. Activities include hiking, walking, running, cycling, birding, and fishing. Dogs are welcome on a leash (6 feet or shorter). The preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk with no entrance fee.
Nature and Wildlife
The mix of open grasslands, wetland edges, and mature tree stands provides habitat for a diverse array of bird species, making Tall Pines a popular local birding destination. The transitional landscape supports songbirds, raptors, waterfowl, and various mammals. The Friends of Tall Pines State Preserve actively maintain the property and organize volunteer events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome on a leash of 6 feet or shorter.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, access is free. The preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk.
