Corson's Inlet State Park New Jersey
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Corson's Inlet State Park New Jersey

4.7
·1k reviews·Ocean City, United States

Discover an unspoiled gem on the Jersey Shore, offering serene beaches, unique nature trails, and excellent fishing.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Corson's Inlet State Park New Jersey

Corson's Inlet State Park New Jersey

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover an unspoiled gem on the Jersey Shore, offering serene beaches, unique nature trails, and excellent fishing.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Absolutely amazing. Finally a place that is the jersey shore but so unspoiled."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear proper footwear!

Sneakers or hiking boots are essential due to poison ivy. Avoid flip-flops on the trails.

🚫 Watch out for poison ivy

It's abundant! Long pants and high socks are highly recommended to prevent contact.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unspoiled Atlantic Beach

Unspoiled Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Ocean shoreline

Miles of pristine sand await after a scenic hike, offering a peaceful escape from the typical boardwalk bustle.

Nature Trails

Nature Trails

Inlet area

Wander through unique, tall flora on sandy paths leading to the ocean's edge. A true nature lover's delight.

Fishing and Crabbing

Fishing and Crabbing

Inlet waters

Renowned for its excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities, especially from the boat ramp area.

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Ocean Drive parking lot

The park offers a remarkable setting for breathtaking sunsets over the water.

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Beware of Poison Ivy & Bugs

The natural beauty of Corson's Inlet comes with a warning: poison ivy thrives here. Wear long pants, high socks, and sturdy shoes like sneakers. Bug spray is also a must, especially during warmer months, to fully enjoy the trails and beach.

Embrace the Natural Beach Experience

This isn't your typical crowded Jersey Shore beach. Expect a short hike to reach the unspoiled shoreline. The reward is a more serene, natural environment perfect for those seeking tranquility and a break from the usual boardwalk scene.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Beautiful sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting OC for a day 😁

👟 Wear proper footwear!

Sneakers or hiking boots are essential due to poison ivy. Avoid flip-flops on the trails. Reddit

🚫 Watch out for poison ivy

It's abundant! Long pants and high socks are highly recommended to prevent contact. Reddit

reddit.com

Best beaches + day trip tips

reddit.com

Bf taking me for the first time to OC help with places to go

🦟 Bring bug spray

Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be present, especially in warmer months. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike to the beach

The best part is the unspoiled beach, but it requires a short walk through the trails. Reddit

reddit.com

Tide Pools?

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear proper footwear!

Sneakers or hiking boots are essential due to poison ivy. Avoid flip-flops on the trails. Reddit

🚫 Watch out for poison ivy

It's abundant! Long pants and high socks are highly recommended to prevent contact. Reddit

🦟 Bring bug spray

Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be present, especially in warmer months. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike to the beach

The best part is the unspoiled beach, but it requires a short walk through the trails. Reddit

🎣 Prime fishing spot

Known for great fishing, especially from the inlet side. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Corson's Inlet State Park for its unspoiled, natural beauty and serene beach experience, a refreshing change from typical boardwalk attractions. While the hike to the beach and the presence of poison ivy require preparation, the reward is a peaceful, expansive shoreline perfect for nature lovers and anglers.

"Loved our walk in Corsons Inlet! Easily found parking the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. The bathrooms at 59th street are great (we parked on the street nearby). I highly suggest that you wear sneakers, high socks and/or pants. The path is fun, and while you can do it in flip flops, it is FULL of poison ivy. So.much.poisonivy! Everyone’s comments about bugs is also accurate, but we used bug spray. Not a big deal. Wearing flip flops on this hike (totally my fault!) with all the poison ivy was very stressful. Thankfully we came through unscathed. That being said (if you’ve read this far), I LOVED this walk and will do it again, walk the whole thing, while wearing sneakers! My three year old had a blast. Ya know, until we were at the farthest point from the car and then she wanted to be carried. We were able to take a path to the beach and she loved running back on the beach."

Katie Mizak

"Absolutely amazing. Finally a place that is the jersey shore but so unspoiled. Sure you have to walk about 1/2 mile to get to a beach but it’s worth it."

Linda L

"At the southern end of West Ave in Ocean City NJ is Corsons Inlet SP. It is renowned as a very good place for fishing. However, on Jan 1 it was way too cold and windy for that! There are two parking lots. One at 59th St and the other, where we parked, off Ocean Drive. No fees are charged. There is a boat ramp into the inlet and a short, sandy trail leading to an expansive beach on the Atlantic Ocean. It's a remarkable place to visit, especially at sunset."

Gordon Shaffer

What People Like

Unspoiled natural beach
Peaceful atmosphere
Great fishing spot

What People Dislike

Poison ivy on trails
Bugs can be bothersome

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Corson's Inlet State Park is located at the southern end of West Ave in Ocean City, NJ. There are two parking lots: one at 59th Street and another off Ocean Drive. Reddit

Yes, there are parking lots available. Parking was easily found on a Sunday of Labor Day weekend, and no fees are charged. Reddit

Yes, Corson's Inlet State Park is situated at the southern end of West Avenue in Ocean City, NJ, making it easily accessible from the city. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a perfect spot for a day trip if you're looking for a more natural and unspoiled beach experience away from the typical boardwalk crowds. Reddit

From Ocean City, head south on West Avenue. The park entrances and parking areas will be accessible from West Avenue and Ocean Drive. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no fees charged for entry or parking at Corson's Inlet State Park. Reddit

While specific hours aren't always posted, state parks are generally accessible from dawn to dusk. It's best to check with the New Jersey State Parks system for any official updates. Reddit

No advance booking is required as there are no entrance fees. You can visit freely during daylight hours. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions beyond standard park rules. However, it's always wise to check for any temporary advisories or closures. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in the provided reviews, typically dogs are allowed in New Jersey State Parks on a leash. It's advisable to confirm current pet policies before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking on sandy trails, fishing, crabbing, boating (via the boat ramp), and relaxing on the expansive, unspoiled beach. Reddit

It's highly recommended to wear sneakers or sturdy shoes, long pants, and high socks due to the abundance of poison ivy on the trails. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available, with one reviewer mentioning the ones at 59th Street are great. Reddit

The trail is sandy and can be challenging for some, especially if not wearing appropriate footwear. It's about a half-mile walk to the beach. Reddit

As a natural area, you can expect to see various coastal flora and potentially birdlife. It's a great spot for nature observation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The unspoiled beach, the unique tall flora along the trails, and especially the sunset views from the Ocean Drive parking area are fantastic for photography. Reddit

Absolutely. The expansive beach, dunes, and ocean provide a beautiful, natural landscape. The sunset can add dramatic lighting. Reddit

Yes, the unique coastal plants are a highlight. Keep an eye out for any local birdlife as well. Reddit

Late afternoon leading into sunset offers the best light for photography. Morning can also be beautiful for softer light. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the natural environment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Corson's Inlet State Park offers a wonderful, natural beach experience for families. The short hike to the beach is an adventure in itself for kids, and the unspoiled shoreline provides ample space for them to run and play. Just be sure to pack bug spray and ensure everyone wears long pants and closed-toe shoes to navigate the trails safely, as poison ivy is present.Reddit The park's natural setting is a great way to introduce children to coastal ecosystems in a less commercialized environment.

🎣 Anglers and Boaters

For fishing and boating enthusiasts, Corson's Inlet State Park is a must-visit. The inlet is renowned for its excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities.Reddit The presence of a boat ramp makes it easy to launch kayaks, canoes, or small motorboats to explore the waters. Whether you're casting a line from the shore or heading out on the water, the park provides a fantastic setting for a day of aquatic pursuits.

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers and Hikers

The sandy trails at Corson's Inlet offer a unique hiking experience through coastal flora. While the trails are sandy, the reward is reaching the beautiful, unspoiled beach.Reddit Remember to wear appropriate footwear and protective clothing due to poison ivy. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful nature walk, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Jersey Shore.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails and Beach Access

The journey to the pristine beach at Corson's Inlet State Park involves a short, sandy hike. While described as a 'short, sandy trail',Reddit it's important to be prepared. Reviewers strongly advise wearing sneakers or hiking boots and long pants/high socks due to the prevalence of poison ivy along the paths.Reddit This natural element, while beautiful, requires caution. The effort is rewarded with access to an expansive, unspoiled shoreline, a stark contrast to more developed Jersey Shore beaches.

The trails themselves are noted for their unique flora, with some plants reaching over seven feet tall.Reddit This creates a distinctive natural environment to explore before reaching the ocean. For those with young children, the hike is manageable, though be prepared for potential requests for carrying as the walk progresses.Reddit The path offers a sense of adventure, leading you away from the parking areas and into a more secluded natural setting.

Fishing and Boating Opportunities

Corson's Inlet State Park is recognized as a prime location for fishing and crabbing.Reddit The inlet waters provide a rich environment for various species, making it a popular spot for anglers. The park features a boat ramp, facilitating access for those who wish to explore the waters by boat, whether for fishing, crabbing, or simply enjoying a day on the water. This makes it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy aquatic activities.

Even during colder months, the potential for fishing is high, though weather conditions can be a factor, as noted by a visitor in January.Reddit The accessibility via the boat ramp means that both shore-based and boat-based anglers can take advantage of the park's fishing potential. It's a key feature that distinguishes Corson's Inlet as more than just a beach destination, offering a comprehensive natural experience.

Embracing the Unspoiled Nature

What truly sets Corson's Inlet State Park apart is its unspoiled natural beauty. Unlike many other Jersey Shore locations, it offers a serene escape with minimal development. Visitors rave about it being 'the jersey shore but so unspoiled'.Reddit This natural character means you'll find a more peaceful and less crowded beach experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.

The park is a haven for those who appreciate raw, natural landscapes. The expansive beach, the unique flora, and the general sense of seclusion contribute to its charm. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of the coast. The commitment to preserving this natural state is evident, making it a valuable gem for nature lovers and those seeking a quieter beach day.

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