Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area

Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area At A Glance...

Over 12,000 acres of diverse Pinelands habitat.
Numerous man-made lakes and ponds, including Success Lake, Turnmill Pond, Upper and Lower Deer Park Pond, and Hawkins Road Pond, offering fishing and boating.
Important birding area, home to Pinelands specialties and migrating species.
Extensive network of sand roads and unmarked trails suitable for hiking and exploring.
Archery range and shotgun range (may have specific operating hours/rules).
Todays Sunrise: 5:42 am, Sunset: 8:25 pm
New Jersey Shore Region Ocean County

About Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area

Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a vast expanse of over 12,000 acres situated in the Pinelands of Ocean County, New Jersey. Managed by the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife, it showcases a rich mosaic of habitats typical of the region, including upland pine-oak forests, hardwood swamps, Atlantic white cedar stands, managed fields, and numerous man-made lakes and ponds, many of which are former cranberry bogs or mill ponds.

The WMA is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, primarily known for its hunting and fishing opportunities, but also offering excellent birding, hiking, paddling, and nature study. Its management focuses on wildlife conservation and providing wildlife-dependent recreational activities.

Activities:
- Fishing
- Hiking
  More like walking
- Hunting
  Sesonal
- Jogging / Running
- Mountain Bike
  Flat trails
- Paddling - Kayak, Canoe, row boat
- Walking
Amenities:
- Boat launch
- Shooting / Archery range
Trails:
- Flat / Easy
- Dirt
- Walking Paths
Park Type:
- State Parks
- Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Contact / Location

Primary Address:

Get Directions 401 Hawkin Rd,
New Egypt, NJ 08533

Contact:

Basic information and maps

A Brief History

The land constituting Colliers Mills WMA has a history of human use dating back centuries. The name itself refers to the former sawmills and gristmills that operated in the area, utilizing the water power from the region's streams. Cranberry farming was also prevalent, with many of the current ponds being remnants of these agricultural operations. The State of New Jersey began acquiring land for the WMA in the mid-20th century to conserve wildlife habitat and provide public recreational opportunities.

Programs / Education

The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife offers various educational programs, including hunter education courses, which are mandatory for new hunters. While specific programs at Colliers Mills may vary, the WMA itself serves as an outdoor classroom for understanding Pinelands ecology and wildlife management. The ranges (archery, shotgun) may host training or qualification events.

Trail & Path Info

Colliers Mills WMA features an extensive network of sand roads and unmarked footpaths. There are no officially marked or maintained hiking trails in the traditional sense. Exploration often involves walking these sand roads, which traverse diverse habitats.

Difficulty is generally easy to moderate due to the flat terrain of the Pinelands, but walking in soft sand can be strenuous.
A good map of the WMA (available from NJDFW) and GPS are highly recommended for navigation, as it's easy to get disoriented.
Visitors should be prepared for varying conditions, including potentially wet areas or overgrown paths.

Things to See & Do

Hunting: A primary activity. Species include deer (archery, shotgun, muzzleloader), wild turkey, waterfowl (ducks, geese on the ponds), small game (rabbit, squirrel, quail, pheasant). All hunting is subject to NJDFW regulations and seasons.
Fishing: Numerous ponds, including Success Lake (approx. 50 acres), Turnmill Pond, Deer Park Ponds, and Hawkins Road Pond, offer freshwater fishing. Species include largemouth bass, chain pickerel, various sunfish (bluegill, pumpkinseed), yellow perch, and catfish. Some waters may be stocked with trout seasonally.
Boating: Non-motorized boats (kayaks, canoes) and boats with electric motors are permitted on the ponds. Several unimproved boat launch areas are available. This is a popular way to fish or explore the larger water bodies like Success Lake.
Birdwatching: The diverse habitats attract a wide variety of bird species, including Pinelands specialists like the Pine Warbler and Prairie Warbler, as well as raptors, waterfowl, and wading birds. Spring and fall migrations can be particularly rewarding.
Hiking/Nature Study: Exploring the sand roads and paths allows for immersion in the Pinelands ecosystem, observing plants, wildlife tracks, and enjoying the natural scenery.
Photography: The scenic beauty of the Pinelands, its unique flora, fauna, and water bodies, offers many photographic opportunities.
Shooting Ranges: An archery range and a shotgun range are located within the WMA. These have specific rules, operating hours, and may require permits or fees.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Spring (April-May): Pleasant temperatures, migrating birds, blooming wildflowers. Good for fishing as waters warm.
Fall (September-November): Cooler weather, fall foliage, peak hunting seasons, migrating birds. Excellent for hiking.
Winter (December-February): Fewer insects, good visibility for spotting wildlife. Some hunting seasons are active. Ice fishing if conditions permit (use extreme caution).
Summer (June-August): Can be hot and humid with high insect activity (ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies). Early morning or late evening are best for activities. Good for bass fishing.

Note: Be aware of hunting seasons regardless of when you visit if you are not hunting.

Trip Ideas

Fishing Day: Focus on Success Lake or Turnmill Pond with a car-top boat or by fishing from shore.
Birding Expedition: Explore different habitats, from upland forests to swamps and pond edges, particularly during migration periods.
Pinelands Hike: Choose a section of sand roads to explore for a few hours, using a map and GPS.
Hunting Trip: Plan according to specific game seasons and regulations (requires appropriate licenses and permits).
Paddling Adventure: Kayak or canoe Success Lake or other larger ponds, combining it with fishing or birdwatching.

Special / Seasonal Events

Each September, the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife puts on a great event called the New Jersey Wild Outdoor Expo. You should definitely check this fun weekend out!

Tips and Tricks

Obtain and carry a WMA map. These are essential for navigation.
Use a GPS device or smartphone app with GPS capabilities. Cell service can be spotty.
Wear appropriate footwear for sandy and potentially wet conditions.
Bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months. Ticks are prevalent.
Carry plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the WMA.
Be aware of hunters during hunting seasons. Wear blaze orange if hiking or engaging in non-hunting activities.
Check WMA regulations before visiting, including rules for pets, vehicles, fires, and specific activities.
"Pack it in, pack it out." Leave no trace.
Roads are unpaved and can be soft sand; 4WD is recommended for many areas.

Picnics / Lunches / Eating

There are no designated picnic facilities like tables or grills. Visitors can picnic, but must carry out all trash. Avoid picnicking in areas where it might interfere with hunting or other primary WMA activities.

Parking

Parking is available in designated unpaved lots scattered throughout the WMA, typically near access points to ponds, trailheads (sand road entrances), and the shooting ranges. Do not block gates or roads. Parking is free.