Wells Mills Nature Center

Box 905
Wells Mills Rd.
Waretown, NJ 08758
(609) 971-3085

Internet: http://www.ocean.nj.us/parks/wellsmills.html

Wells Mills, Ocean County's largest park, features almost 900 acres of precious natural environments. A freshwater lake, streams, swamps, and uplands are set in New Jersey's beautiful Pine Barrens. Extensive pine-oak forests are interspersed with Atlantic white cedar swamps freshwater bogs, and maple gum swamps.

The park is home to an astounding variety of species of plants, some of which are quite rare. This diversity provides habitat for many birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians.

Central to the park is the Wells Mills Nature Center. Several stories high, one of its features includes an observation deck providing a view of the surrounding Pine Barrens.

The Exhibit Room features a variety of displays relating to the environment and our wildlife. An eighty-seat lecture room provides indoor space for some educational programs, while outside they are conducted in the forests or over the Park's 18 miles of marked Nature Trails.

Visitors will find opportunities for hiking, bird watching, fishing (NJ license required), and canoeing. Canoe rentals are available, or boaters can bring their own canoe or electric motor boat. All visitors are required to check in at the Nature Center.

Throughout the year individuals and families can participate in programs and workshops that encompass virtually all aspects of ecology and nature. Call for a calendar of programs and special events.

School and Adult Groups can also take advantage of the Center's Educational Programming. Call for further details. Virtually any nature-related topic can be addressed for groups of all ages. Note: this is a very popular attraction for groups, and reservations should be made as far in advance as possible -- as much as 9 months.

Hours: Park is open daily, 7am - dusk. Nature Center open daily 10am - 4pm.

Admission: FREE. Some programs may incur a small fee.

Reservations: 9 months.

Lunch: Picnic area available. Groups must reserve.

Handicapped: Accessible. Call.

Directions: Rt. 70 East to Rt. 72 East toward Barnegat. Bear left onto Rt. 532 (Wells Mills Rd.) toward Waretown. Enter about 2½ miles on right.

Time: 60 - 90 minutes east of Philadelphia.

Nearby: JCP&L Energy Spectrum , Ocean Gate Museum , Popcorn Park Zoo .