As the New Jersey fall foliage season gets into full swing, so do the waves of tourists looking for the best places to spot the leaves as they change. This means many top fall foliage locations are pretty crowded with locals and tourists. Here at Only in Your State, we love to find hidden gems where it’s easy to beat the crowds, and New Jersey’s state forests are usually pretty laid back even around this time of year compared to the top state parks. A perfect example is Belleplain State Forest, maybe the best leaf-peeping park in New Jersey. With rich, thick canopies of trees changing color daily and a full collection of amenities and camping opportunities, it’s the perfect place to visit when you want to escape from everyday life and into nature.

Located in the small town of Woodbine, tucked away in South Jersey, lies Belleplain State Forest.
Jim Keeney/Google Local
This is a popular park for camping and hiking, and it's rarely very crowded. It's also some of the best fishing grounds in South Jersey! You'll find a lot of catfish in those lakes.
Robin Buglio/Google Local
It's one of the best spots in New Jersey for spotting wildlife, and birding is popular too during migration seasons. It's a beautiful place, but never more than during one season.
Mark Quinnette/Google Local

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During the fall, the entire park is transformed into bright colors as the fall foliage changes by the day.
Kimberly Mcanany/Google Local
The best way to see it is via the East Creek Loop Trail, the main trail in the area. It's 6.8 miles long and is rated as easy.
Tracy Riggs/AllTrails
Whether you're walking, bicycling, or taking another method of transportation, it's a beautiful trek!
Tracy Riggs/AllTrails
But don't take too long to visit - fall foliage season in NJ is nearing its peak, and it'll be over before you know it.
Delilah Dahlia/Google Local

Have you visited Belleplain State Forest in Woodbine? Tell us about your visit to this gorgeous leaf-peeping park in New Jersey in the comments section! You can find out more about Belleplain State Forest’s many amenities on the official NJ Parks website, or visit AllTrails for more info on the East Creek Loop Trail. This charming park is also close to New Jersey’s best year-round scenic train ride. If you’re looking for an affordable place to spend the night, head about twenty minutes south by car to the Hyland Motor Inn.

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Belleplain State Forest, 1 Henkinsifkin Road, Woodbine, NJ 08270, USA