The Remnants Of This Abandoned Fort In New Jersey Are Hauntingly Beautiful
Kristen
Author
Fort Hancock is a former United States Army fort at Sandy Hook. Built in 1859, the coastal artillery base was decommissioned in 1974. Portions of the base remain intact, and the oldest working lighthouse in the nation stands on its grounds. Still, much of Fort Hancock in New Jersey is in disrepair. Without a doubt, this Sandy Hook abandoned military base is one of the most fascinating and haunting abandoned places in New Jersey.
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See what it’s like to explore Fort Hancock:
Lucky for us, much of the grounds at Fort Hancock in New Jersey are open to the public. Visitors can even enjoy guided tours, too; while guided tours are available from time to time, if you are into exploring on your own, the National Park Service put together this great brochure.
Have you been to Fort Hancock before? Let us know about your experience in the comments. If not, then it’s time to book a trip to see it for yourself! For another intriguing abandoned site, check out the oldest working lighthouse in the United States,
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More to Explore
Fort Hancock in New Jersey
What are some other national historic sites in New Jersey?
Another historical site in New Jersey is Morristown National Historic Park.
If you enjoyed exploring Fort Hancock in New Jersey, you'll definitely want to check out Morristown National Historic Park. Just like Sandy Hook, Morristown is a tragically underrated site in the state that absolutely deserves more visitors than it gets. The park has historical significance to New Jersey and the United States as a whole but also offers amazing hiking trails. Along the Orange/Blue Patriots Path and Grand Loop Trail, you'll pass several important Revolutionary War sites, including the sites where General Washington and the Continental Army placed a winter encampment from December 1779 to June 1780, where they survived through what would be the coldest winter on record. The park's website describes it as "where America survived" -- and it's harrowing to stand on the same ground where such historic events happened so long ago.
What abandoned places should I visit in New Jersey?
Abandoned places to visit in New Jersey include:
- Sandy Hook
- Fort Hancock
Sandy Hook is one of the least-visited national parks in the country, and it really deserves more attention than it receives. Here you'll find beautiful beaches, the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Fort Hancock and the Sandy Hook Proving Ground. The lighthouse is America's oldest and has been in continuous operation since June 11, 1764. Free tours are available daily, hosted by national park rangers. Fort Hancock is another key area, allowing visitors to stroll past military barracks and old batteries. It's a must-visit for history lovers, of course, but it's also a site of immense historical significance that anyone can appreciate and enjoy.
What are some other abandoned places in New Jersey?
Other abandoned places in New Jersey include:
- Weymouth Furnace
- McNeal Mansion
If you're into exploring creepy, abandoned places, you're in good company! We love a good scare or ghost hunt, so we put together this Abandoned Road Trip that leads to some of the Garden State's coolest abandoned sites and spooky attractions like the Weymouth Furnace and McNeal Mansion.