Lord Stirling Park

Lord Stirling Park At A Glance...

• Todays Sunrise: ,   Sunset:  
• New Jersey Skylands Region Somerset County

• Activities:

  • Equestrian / Horseback
  • Fishing
    Nearby
  • Hiking
    More like walking
  • Hunting
  • Jogging / Running
  • Picnicking
  • Walking

  Amenities:

  • Bathrooms
  • Parking Lot(s)
  • Gardens
  • Nature / Environmental Center
  • Picnic / Sitting Area
  • Picnic tables

  Trails:

  • Boardwalks
  • Flat / Easy
  • Walking Paths

  Park Type:

  • County Parks
  • Park (General)
  • Preserve
  • Scenic Areas (overlooks/waterfalls)

  Rules/Regulations:

  • Alcohol *NOT Permitted*
  • Biking *NOT Permitted*

Contact / Location

A Brief History

Lord Stirling is nestled within 500 acres of the western portion of the Great Swamp. A variety of habitats including swamps, rivers, marshes, meadows, ponds, and forests provide homes for diverse plant and animal populations in this environmentally sensitive park.

Historically, the area was once home to Paleo-Indians, the Lenni-Lenape, and a Major General of the Continental Army named Lord Stirling. In the 1960's, grassroots citizens rallied to protect the precious wetlands from becoming an international airport. Consequently, 2,600 acres of land were presented to the Department of the Interior to create the core of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge; the property adjacent to the SCPC Environmental Education Center.

Programs / Education

Many programs are held within the park throughout the year. This includes riding opportunities at the stables, nature and educational programs at the EEC, and nature walks across the property.

Trail & Path Info

You will find 450 acres and 9 miles of trails within Lord Stirling Park... Learn More...

The trails can be very muddy throughout the year. Though there are many many boardwalks, you still may find some mud before getting to them.

Speaking of boardwalks... the Boondock Boardwalk section of the trails has been fixed and reopened to the public this year. If you have not been back recently, you should visit soon :)

Hours / Season of Operation

The Park is open year round, dusk to dawn. I the past we have seen special days where the facilities are closed to the public, so it is best to check the Somerset County website for specific details.

Parking

There is one main parking lot off Lord Stirling Road that provides access to the EEC and the nature trail. There is no launch access to the nearby river from this lot.

Below are a few groups that we have connected to Lord Stirling Park. If we are missing any, please let us know

• Somerset County Park Commission