Even the most experienced birders who frequent world-renowned birding areas such as those in Cape May, NJ will be stunned by Somerset County’s remarkable diversity of birdlife, which surpasses many larger areas with its expanse of parks, open green spaces and wide variety of distinct habitats.

Learn from the experts.

Start your journey at the Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, home of the NJ Audubon Headquarters.  Explore 276 acres of woodland, field, and floodplain habitat that is home to over 200 species of wildlife. The sanctuary is situated at the southeast edge of the Highlands, and is bisected by the Passaic River. It is connected to the Morristown National Historic Park. In addition to being open to the public, the Sanctuary offers field trips, lectures and a gift shop.

Get your life list in gear!

Located in the Piedmont Plains Region of the state, we are home to three Important Bird & Birding Areas (IBBA) with locations that provide essential habitat for a variety of bird species and that make a contribution to the long-term viability of native avian populations in New Jersey.

• Duke Farms

Located on 2,740 acres in Hillsborough, Duke Farms was one of the first sites designated by NJ Audubon as an IBA. From ants that aerate soil to the predatory bald eagle, Duke Farms is teeming with life. Hundreds of bird species live under the shady canopy of the woodlands, nest in and forage on meadow grasses, and rely on the lakes as a fresh water supply.

Duke Farms is segmented into five natural habitat areas: Meadow Birds, Grassland Habitats, Woodland Birds, Birds of the Lake and Birds of Prey. Field Guide

• Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park – Six Mile Run Reservoir Site

Nestled in central New Jersey, the Six Mile Run Reservoir Site provides an essential area for the public to enjoy the splendor of nature. Located in Franklin Township, the site has a rich cultural history and the files and riparian woodlands provide habitat for a variety of migrant and nesting species. Since the area is relatively secluded, birding possibilities are not well known. The area may be good for songbirds in migration and a scattering of wintering species however the site is too new for a good history. With numerous points of entry, the park offers good riparian birding especially during migration.

• Sourland Mountain Region

The Sourland Mountain Preserve offers an array of watchable wildlife including many species of migrating and nesting birds. The Sourlands is especially known for its nesting birds on the edges of their breeding areas including Summer Tanager, Winter Wren, and Black-Capped and Carolina Chickadees. The 4,000 acre Sourland Mountain Preserve is owned by Somerset County and administered by the Somerset County Park Commission. The Preserve provides passive recreational opportunities in an undisturbed natural setting.

Taste the flavors of Somerset County.

Find the perfect spot to fuel your game with one of Somerset County’s many fine eateries.

Relax in unique accommodations.

From luxurious country inns to contemporary hotels, Somerset County offers inviting accommodations to suit every golfer’s travel style and budget.

Explore VisitSomersetNJ.org/stay to select your stay.

Before you go…

Refer to our Destination Guide to help create a stay in Somerset County that is perfectly tailored to you.

We hope to see you soon, binoculars in hand!