<<<Hikes in NJ - Trails Less Taken
Parvin State Park
Salem County in South Jersey.
Summary: A short, easy loop around Parvin Lake through South Jersey's pinelands and Atlantic white cedar swamps.
3.3 miles. Easy. Trail surface is flat, and no rocks.We did this trail in about 1.5 hrs and that was with stopping for photos and video, and you don't need any hiking gear with this trail except maybe a bottle of water when it's hot.
In summer, there is swimming at the beach, with picnic areas and a playground. There are camping facilities as well. There are other trails in the park to make longer hikes.
Map: Only managed to locate this Parvin Trail Map online, and it's hard to read. Should have picked up a trail map but thought I had a copy here to scan. However, this route follows GREEN only is well marked.
Books: A map and longer route can be found in "Hiking
New Jersey"
Parking: Turnpike south to exit 3. Take 42 South to 55 South.
From Route 55, take exit 35 and follow signs to the park. The Park is located between Centerton and Vineland on Route 540 (Almond Road).
This hike starts from the lot at Fisherman's landing, which is on Parvin Mill Road/County 645.
Restrooms: There was a restroom at the park office near the beach access, which is later in the hike. There should be restrooms in the campgrounds - not sure on the availability.
Hike Directions: Great view of the lake right from the start. There is a floating dock to get a view from as well.
From the parking lot, this route heads clockwise around Parvin Lake. Facing the lake, start walking to the left, hugging the lake. Go over a small bridge very shortly, then immediately pass a small floating dock. The campground comes into view on your left.
.1 mile - take GREEN to your RIGHT, while BLUE and YELLOW go straight.
.6 mile - continue straight on GREEN. BLUE goes to the LEFT.
1.4 mile - continue straight on GREEN. PINK goes to LEFT.
1.6 mile - Turn RIGHT and continue GREEN. ORANGE is straight.
1.8 mile - Turn RIGHT and continue GREEN. BLUE goes straight. ORANGE goes left.
Almond Road is toward the left, and there is some minor road noise now. Behind a chain link fence a playground and picnic areas come into view.
2.8 mile - Park Office, Beach access, Restroom.
The fence ends and the path curves around, past a gazebo and then over an old white bridge. The trail goes along the road and then arrives at the dam. The parking lot is just ahead.
