
Corson's Inlet State Park New Jersey
Discover an unspoiled gem on the Jersey Shore, offering serene beaches, unique nature trails, and excellent fishing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Corson's Inlet State Park New Jersey
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover an unspoiled gem on the Jersey Shore, offering serene beaches, unique nature trails, and excellent fishing.
"Absolutely amazing. Finally a place that is the jersey shore but so unspoiled."

👟 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Sunset Views
Ocean Drive parking lot
The park offers a remarkable setting for breathtaking sunsets over the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beware of Poison Ivy & Bugs
Embrace the Natural Beach Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting OC for a day 😁
👟 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.
Best beaches + day trip tips
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.
🚶♀️ Hike to the beach
The best part is the unspoiled beach, but it requires a short walk through the trails.
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.
🚫 Watch out for poison ivy
It's abundant! Long pants and high socks are highly recommended to prevent contact.
🦟 Bring bug spray
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be present, especially in warmer months.
🚶♀️ Hike to the beach
The best part is the unspoiled beach, but it requires a short walk through the trails.
🎣 Prime fishing spot
Known for great fishing, especially from the inlet side.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there are parking lots available. Parking was easily found on a Sunday of Labor Day weekend, and no fees are charged.
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.
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.
From Ocean City, head south on West Avenue. The park entrances and parking areas will be accessible from West Avenue and Ocean Drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no fees charged for entry or parking at Corson's Inlet State Park.
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.
No advance booking is required as there are no entrance fees. You can visit freely during daylight hours.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions beyond standard park rules. However, it's always wise to check for any temporary advisories or closures.
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.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking on sandy trails, fishing, crabbing, boating (via the boat ramp), and relaxing on the expansive, unspoiled beach.
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.
Yes, restrooms are available, with one reviewer mentioning the ones at 59th Street are great.
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.
As a natural area, you can expect to see various coastal flora and potentially birdlife. It's a great spot for nature observation.
📸 📸 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.
Absolutely. The expansive beach, dunes, and ocean provide a beautiful, natural landscape. The sunset can add dramatic lighting.
Yes, the unique coastal plants are a highlight. Keep an eye out for any local birdlife as well.
Late afternoon leading into sunset offers the best light for photography. Morning can also be beautiful for softer light.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers and Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Beach Access
The trails themselves are noted for their unique flora, with some plants reaching over seven feet tall. 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. 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
Even during colder months, the potential for fishing is high, though weather conditions can be a factor, as noted by a visitor in January. 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
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.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit