Natural Lands' Glades Wildlife Refuge — Attraction in Downe Township

This 6,765 acre Wildlife Refuge is Natural Land's Trusts largest. Turkey Point has an observation platform from which one can observe the vast tidal marshes and may see Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, wading birds and waterfowl. This preserve is better accessed by canoe/kayak then by hiking. There are oak-pine woodlands, Delaware Bay beaches, hardwood swamps, over 200 species of ferns, club-mosses, conifers, and flowering plants including the narrow-leaved crab-apple, mistletoe, and pond pine can be found within this preserve. This preserve provides habitat for Bald Eagles, the occasional Rough-legged Hawk or Golden Eagle, Short-eared Owl, Yellow-throated and Pine Warblers,, Red Knot, Ruddy Turnstone and other shorebirds, butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies , diamondback terrapins , swallows and horseshoe crabs. Maple Street has street view of the preserve where I saw nearly a dozen Turkey Vultures sitting on the road.

The main reason I can't give this preserve a 5 star is the lack of trail markers. As the fall is well underway many of the trails are overgrown and hard to locate without markers. The most disappointing thing about this preserve is the amount of toilet paper scattered around the trail at Turkey Point- apparently people find it acceptable to use this preserve as...

Beautiful, untouched, VERY natural area- not far from society and some SW NJ cities (and Philly!) Highly recommend Fortescue Beach for seashells and a quiet stroll (careful about biting flies and vicious mosquitos during Spring-Fall however! I went on a warm day in early March and it was PERFECT!) And the actual main area (off Turkey Trail) offers some unbeatable birdwatching and rugged hiking. I specify rugged hiking as these trails are fairly unmaintained and reception is poor- plan to watch for animals, ticks, and bring a map and powerbank for your phone (and download digital maps beforehand!) Lots of bushwhacking will be rewarded by scenic views of nature, and plenty of peace and quiet. Hunting is allowed in certain areas seasonally so do check before your visit and wear hunting orange if necessary. Honestly it's even just a nice area to drive around if it's too chilly to roam. I saw a bald eagle! This was the best pic I could get though, as they flew away into the sunset. I'll definitely be back to this secluded gem of a lesser known area of our...

This is a great place to come and hike and see the Bay. I am sure this is a great place for watching birds. We came for the new geocaches in the area. We came in February so there were no bugs. if you come at the wrong time of the year it might be very hard to hike due to the amount of flies. We had a perfect day and the views were outstanding. There are no restrooms nearby and limited parking along...