There’s More Than Beaches To Experience Peace in NJ

When everyone is running to our beautiful beaches, I like to go off the beaten path sometimes. It's been a clever way for me to explore my own state. New Jersey has so many beautiful areas, I'm always amazed to find new gems in such a small state.

When my husband and I lived in Clinton, NJ, I was so far from my beloved beach. So searching we went for somewhere different. We found the Ken Lockwood Gorge Wildlife Management Area in Califon, NJ. Huge, beautiful river streaming through the mountains with a gorgeous waterfall above.

Families fishing or hiking, people walking their dogs, some people even riding bikes. The Gorge is so serene and so huge, you never feel overcrowded by any of this.

My husband and I would bring our tailgate chairs and sit on a clear bank off the river while dipping our feet into the water. Trees above giving us little breezes. If it were hot enough we went in the water which was so clear and clean. You could even see some fish swimming by.

It's truly one of the most peaceful places in nature I've ever been. I'm happy I live near the beach again but there are times I actually miss the gorge. It's a must experience!