Free Entrance To Island Beach State Park This Summer

BERKELEY, NJ — As of Memorial Day Weekend, entrance to Island Beach State Park will be free, Gov. Phil Murphy announced Thursday.

Entry to all New Jersey state parks, forests and recreation areas will be free this summer. This is one of several fee waivers and programs from the FY 2023 budget that is intended to advance affordability and opportunity in New Jersey.

Fees are waived regardless of state residency. Those who already purchased a 2022 State Park Pass will receive a full refund. Other individual park fees such as camping or mobile sport fishing permits will remain.

"Presented in our FY2023 budget, the bold steps we have taken toward a more affordable Garden State will ensure access to our state parks for everyone – residents and visitors alike," Murphy said in a release. "While incentivizing tourism and economic activity in our local communities, the fee holiday also promotes access to green, open space; thriving waterways; and the many natural wonders that make us proud to call New Jersey our home. "

Lifeguards at Island Beach State Park will go on duty starting at 10 a.m. on May 28. It is the only oceanfront swimming beach in the state park system.