Butterfly Bogs State Conservation Area
Rate this placeNearby: Jfk Jr Memorial Park Flair Ridge Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Butterfly Bogs State Conservation Area is a natural area located in New Jersey that spans over 200 acres.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The area is known for its diverse range of habitats, including wetlands, bogs, and uplands, as well as its extensive population of butterflies.
One of the main reasons to visit Butterfly Bogs State Conservation Area is to observe the unique and endangered plant and animal species that call the area home. One of the most notable species is the bog turtle, which is one of the smallest and rarest turtles in North America. Visitors can also spot several butterfly species, including the Baltimore checkerspot and the regal fritillary.
There are several points of interest to see within the conservation area, including the Butterfly Bogs Interpretive Trail, which features informative signage about the area's plants and animals. Visitors can also explore the various habitats within the area, such as the wetlands and uplands.
Interesting facts about the Butterfly Bogs State Conservation Area include that it was once used for cranberry farming and that it is now home to several rare and endangered species. Additionally, the area is managed by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, which aims to protect and preserve the natural resources within the area.
The best time to visit Butterfly Bogs State Conservation Area is during the summer months, as this is when many of the butterfly species are most active. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, as well as to bring bug spray to ward off mosquitoes and ticks.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Turkey Swamp
|
||
Allaire State Park Campground
|
||
Allaire State Park Group Campground
|
||
Allaire State Park
|
JFK Jr Memorial Park
Flair Ridge Park
Lakewood Pine Park
Gil Putnam Memorial Park
Camp Joy Acq