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NJ State Parks Celebrate 250 Challenge

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Get outdoors, get moving, and celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026 with the New Jersey State Parks Celebrate 250 Challenge. This yearlong challenge encourages visitors of all ages and abilities to explore New Jersey’s 41 state parks, 11 state forests, five recreation areas, and 50+ historic sites and districts while building healthy habits and honoring this milestone year. 

All participants who successfully complete one of the five challenge options will earn a Certificate of Achievement and the opportunity to be recognized on New Jersey State Parks’ social media. Are you ready to take the challenge?

[vc_tta_accordion active_section=”” collapsible_all=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”Choose Your Challenge” tab_id=”1765813889720-6b50fa52-8c63″][vc_column_text css=””]The New Jersey State Park Celebrate 250 Challenge includes five different challenges focused on physical and mental wellness. These challenges, which were designed to engage visitors of all ages and abilities, can be completed at any of New Jersey’s state parks, forests, recreation areas or historic sites.  

There are endless opportunities to complete the challenge throughout the state, from spending 25 minutes outdoors a week to hiking 25 different trails in a year. Participants looking for the ultimate challenge can pledge to move 250 miles in 2026, an average of just under five miles per week. More casual visitors can aim to complete 25 miles in a year, or alternatively, a steady pace of 2.5 miles per week. 

Choose a challenge and get moving! [/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Plan Your Adventure” tab_id=”1765813983119-80fb91f5-2695″][vc_column_text css=””]Participants can complete the New Jersey State Parks Celebrate 250 Challenge at any of New Jersey’s state parks, forests, recreation areas or historic sites.

To find a state park near you, check out Trail Tracker, the interactive trails map of New Jersey State Parks. There are over 1,000 miles of trails for you to explore, from the rugged Appalachian trail in northern New Jersey to the sandy trails of the southern Pine Barrens. Detailed trail guides have been created to help visitors discover the natural wonders of New Jersey’s state parks and forests. 

Participants can also make progress towards completing the New Jersey State Parks Celebrate 250 Challenge with a variety of organized activities taking place throughout the state. Check the calendar regularly for a full list of programs and events offered by New Jersey State Parks, from First Day Hikes to guided nature walks.

Please note that park entrance and program fees may apply. [/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Share Your Success” tab_id=”1765813889737-63ea8e0c-f67e”][vc_column_text css=””]In order to participate in the New Jersey State Parks Celebrate 250 Challenge, all progress must be recorded through this online form. The following information is required for each submission:  

  • Name 
  • Email 
  • The date the activity was completed 
  • The chosen challenge 
  • The number of miles, minutes, or trails completed 
  • The NJ State Park, Forest, or Historic Site visited 
  • The specific trails or areas visited 
  • Additional comments (optional) 

Participants can also use this downloadable tracker to help keep track of their progress.  

Upon successful completion of the challenge, all participants will receive a digital Certificate of Achievement by email. Share your success on social media with #NJStateParksChallenge and #ThisIsJERSEY. Don’t forget to tag @newjerseystateparks! 

Questions? Contact celebrate250parkschallenge@deptest.nj.gov.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][/vc_tta_accordion][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_column_text css=””]

Submit Your Progress

In order to participate in the New Jersey State Parks Celebrate 250 Challenge, all activities must be recorded through the online form. This form automatically keeps track of each participant’s progress towards their selected challenge option. Participants can also use this downloadable tracker to help keep track of their progress.

Tips for Exploring the Outdoors

Plan and prepare for every excursion. Always check the weather before leaving the house, and make sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are especially important in colder temperatures. Make sure to wear the proper footgear, and bring water and snacks![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator css=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]

Celebrate 250 Challenge Options

To participate in the New Jersey State Parks Celebrate 250 Challenge, visitors can choose to complete one of these five unique challenges: 

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250 Miles in a Year

For the avid hiker, biker, or walker, average just under five miles per week at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site.

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25.0 Miles in a Year

Perfect for casual visitors, average two miles per month hiking or walking at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site.

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25.0 Different Trails in a Year

Explore our trails at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site. 

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2.50 Miles per Week

Can be achieved at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site. A steady, approachable pace totaling about 130 miles in a year. 

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25.0 Minutes per Week Outdoors

For all ages and abilities, simply celebrate by spending time outside at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site.

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About the United States’ 250th Anniversary

Throughout 2026, New Jersey’s state parks, forests, and historic sites will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with a variety of public programs and events. Join in on the fun as we explore New Jersey’s history and learn how the events, challenges and ideas of the past continue to shape our nation today. From guided First Day Hikes to Revolutionary War reenactments and themed programs, there is truly something for everyone. Learn more about how New Jersey State Parks is celebrating the United States’ 250th anniversary. 

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