Cox Hall Creek WMA — Attraction in Lower Township

Tremendous gem in Villas, NJ.

While most visiting the county are hitting the south and east shore beaches, I found myself returning to this fantastic outdoor rec area in Villas. Beautiful flora teaming with all varieties of bird species making their migratory pattern through NJ. The area was built on an old golf course from the 1970s, more than enough time to create a sprawling outdoor paradise. Plenty of ponds, bigger ponds, fishing opportunities, and grade A hiking for those who want to burn their calories with the pups. Due note: in spring, poison ivy can be spotted, so if you like hiking with kids...

Nice mostly paved partially shaded variety of woodsy trails available to enjoy nature by walking or biking. Original Ponder Lodge is gone that originally was a summer retreat for Schmidt's beer employees back in the day. An enjoyable Wildlife management area now. Well maintained oasis not far from the shore crowds. Pretty lake, small ponds, woods, attractive meadows alive with sunflowers this summer, interpretive signs and color coded trails. 2 parking lots. One outdoor port a potty. Bring your drinking water. Good place to spend some time alone or with family and friends, furry or otherwise. ...

Part of the many NJ Fish & Wildlife Nature Refuges, Cox Hall Creek is the result of "Narure taking its course" when the private Ponderlodge Golf was abandoned around 1997 & the NJFWS made this a Wildlife Management Area which now boasts a nesting pair of Bald Eagles, dozens of regional Songbirds, freshwater Ponds with colorful Dragonflies & noisy Frogs. A great place to spend a few hours appreciating the wonderfully beautiful Natural Environment we are blessed with here in the...