Things to Do in Cumberland County

Cumberland County New Jersey is home to many great attractions and fun activities that the whole family can do together. Whether you are looking for something to do outside, you need some entertainment when the weather gets cold, or you are looking for something else to keep you busy alone or with the kids, there is so much to do in Cumberland County, NJ. Some of the top attractions and fun things to do include:

Cumberland County Fair

This is a big highlight of the county each year, providing hours of entertainment and fun for the whole family. If you have kids, bring along some money to get tickets to the carnival rides and to taste some of your favorite fair food (we know it’s not the healthiest, but this is a great time of year to splurge. You can also include some of the live entertainment that changes every night and many agricultural exhibits. The kids can learn something new and see all the fun animals when they stop on by.

Cohanzick Zoo

If you are in Cumberland County with your kids, then make sure to save at least an afternoon to head to the zoo. This zoo is smaller than some of the bigger ones throughout the country, but still provides a wide variety of animals for your kids to see including alligators, bobcats, and monkeys. It is also free, making it an affordable stop for your trip.

Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center

When you are ready to get some education and culture into your trip, then make sure the Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center gets high on the list. This is a combination art center and museum with many great exhibits. If you would like to see something really cool when you are there, check out one of their glass blowing demonstrations.

Union Lake Wildlife Management Area

Sometimes it is nice to take a break and get out into nature. When this is something you would like to do in Cumberland County, NJ, then check out the Union Lake Wildlife Management Area. This is a nature preserve that provides everything you need for a fun day outside. From hiking trails, fishing, and bird watching, you can find something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Bayshore Center at Bivalve

For those who are interested in learning a bit more about the oystering that occurred in Delaware Bay, then Bayshore Center is a great place to stop by. You can take a boat tour to learn more about the history or walk through the exhibits and see what catches your eyes.

Whether you currently live in Cumberland County or you are going through New Jersey and decide to make a stop, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy, no matter how long you decide to stay. Take some time to check out the zoo, the cultural center, and some of the wildlife outside and see how amazing it all can be for a great time with family.

Cumberland County, located in New Jersey provides an impeccable destination for nature lovers and explorers, given its enormous recreational forests. we all survive in a rash and fast-paced world, therefore, it is expected for one to seek a place to break free from all the disarray of day-to-day living. You will find diverse ecosystems, scenic views, and numerous recreational activities in Cumberland County, providing the perfect sanctuary for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat.  

A myriad of forests available for exploration, are what you can find in Cumberland County. Every forest is distinct on its own, with all having something to offer. If you fancy recreational activities, for instance, mountaineering, observing and discovering various birds species, or simply relishing the tranquillity outside, Cumberland County forests got you. The county’s forests boast of captivating woodlands, soothing streams, and effervescent fields that communicate varying accounts of the countryside’s beauty and forte.            

Discovering Camping Sanctuaries in Cumberland County

The camping sanctuaries in Cumberland County serve as a paradise for those that relish the perfectly rewarding countryside experience. We live in a fast-paced world, where technology has taken over everything making it almost difficult to associate with the outdoors. We must realize the importance of disengaging from the digital realm for our sanity’s sake. 

The Cumberland camping havens provide the perfect disconnect from the digital territory. Imagine being alone or with your special other cuddled up and falling asleep under sky-filled stars, with dried leaves acting as the perfect cover. The harmonious crackling sounds of withered leaves and the far-reaching wildlife sounds rent the air. You can erect your tent and relax as you discern and construct unforgettable memories.  

Camping provides you with the perfect opportunity to spend away from your everyday surrounding. You do not require much resources or skills to go camping. Provided you have a tent and a great location like the Cumberland County camping havens, you are good to go. Cumberland County forests favours everyone regardless of whether you are a seasoned or first time camper. It affords plentiful camping options for everyone. Hence, as an outside fanatic, you can rest assured that you will find something good for you in the Cumberland camping havens. 

You will find remote and undeveloped sites for a complete change of the daily norms. Also, if you are looking for an off-site modern facility with modern home facilities, Cumberland County is the perfect place to visit. The scent of the air has everything to do with the environment in the camping sites. Indulge yourself in the awesome scent of pine trees at dawn, discover the windy trails at daytime, and sit around a campfire at dusk to exchange stories and appreciate the presence of other vacationers.          

The Significance of Conservation

The Cumberland County recreational forests and camping havens need high-level protection given the precious roles they play in society. For starters, the forests are habitats for various flora and fauna. Additionally, they provide excellent getaway spots for vacationers and fun lovers. More people continue to discover their charm making them very essential for future generations. 

Some of the ways of preserving the Cumberland County forests and camping sanctuaries include doing responsible camping where you do not dirty the environment, guard the habitats of the wildlife, and are involved with local conservation plans. 

Now you know where to go camping or for recreation whenever you feel like breaking out from life’s ups and downs. You can be assured of a nature’s paradise at Cumberland County’s recreational forests and camping havens.

Things To Experience In Cumberland

Extensive Wildlife Management and Camping Areas

Cumberland County has eleven recreational forests, national parks, and camping areas that are safe, secure, and suitable for family or solo outings. With the pleasant weather in the county, you can visit these parks or camping sites on any day you pick. 

The parks have numerous attractions for the residents and visitors of Cumberland County. They can hike on beautiful hills or camp in national parks with the animals. The hiking trails have proper signage to ensure that hikers know the way back. When you reach the end of your hiking trail, you are at a high point that allows taking in the scenery of the lowland coastal Cumberland County. 

If you are not hiking, you can go camping. The camping sites are affordable and safe. You can hire tents if you do not own one. The areas are secure and offer an exhilarating experience as you may hear wild animals walking past your tent as you sleep. 

Farms

Another thing to see and do in Cumberland County is to visit farms. Southwind Vineyard is one of the most popular and most visited farms. It is a 100-acre vineyard that allows visitors in groups of six to twelve. 

After the trip around the farm and its wine-processing plant, you will taste the wine. The farm has a rich history, having existed for almost fifty years. It is pet friendly and allows visitors to bring their pets. 

Other Attractions

While in Cumberland County in New Jersey, you can visit the other famous local attractions, such as the All Sports Museum, to celebrate sports people who hail from Cumberland and the southern part of New Jersey. Also, you can visit the Bayshore Center Bivalve to ride in old wooden oyster fishing boats.

The army museum and the Motorcross Park, both in Millville, are also focal attractions.

Working In Cumberland County 

Economy

Cumberland is an agricultural economy. Some of the biggest employers in the country are agricultural based. They are either farms or companies that provide support services such as logistics and distribution to the agriculture sector of the economy. 

Another economic sector that has employed many people in the county is the retail sector. Thousands of Cumberland residents work in the supermarkets and hypermarkets in the area. 

Also, the government of New Jersey has employed thousands of people. For instance, the three correctional institutions in the county have close to 1500 employees. 

Conclusion

Cumberland County in New Jersey is a beautiful coastal area with pleasant weather and population. The cost of living in Cumberland is low, rents are affordable, and homes are affordable and available to buy. The county has three airports, a well-maintained state, municipality, and county roads that make it easy to move from one point to another in and out of state.

Things To Do And See In Cumberland

Government

One of the things you need to know before you move to a new place or visit is its governance structure. Bridgeton is the county seat of Cumberland County. Here, the Board of County Commissioners governs the county seats. 

Seven commissioners who hold a three-year term get elected to the board. Cumberland holds staggered elections to elect commissioners for various board seats when their holders retire. Although the commissioners have a three-year fixed term, the voting for different commissioners occurs at varying times. Consequently, there are board elections every year. The commissioners oversee the various county departments. Also, there are elected federal county representatives.

Additionally, there are three state-owned correctional facilities in Cumberland County. 

Things To Do And See In Cumberland

If you live in Cumberland County in New Jersey, there are many things to see and do. They appeal to children and adults. 

Learn About Glass

Glass and the art of glassmaking have been synonymous with Cumberland County since before its formal start. The Native Americans and the settlers had glass industries that made unique and beautiful items. If you are visiting Cumberland or are a resident without knowledge of glassmaking, you can stop by the various place that teaches more about glass.

The Museum of American Glass is one of the most prominent places in Cumberland where you can get more information on glass and glass making. Adults pay $10 children to pay $7 to enter the museum. 

The museum displays thousands of glass art pieces made by Cumberland residents. The museum staff is knowledgeable about all the pieces shown. They can answer all your questions about the art pieces and how their creators made them. 

Besides the museum, you can also visit the Carlisle School of Glass Art. Here, you will learn how to make glass using traditional techniques. 

Drive-In Movies

If you are looking for a memorable night out with family, or a date, you can check into the drive-in movie. You can watch the latest movies from your car or under the star-lit night sky. You can enjoy dinner and a movie affordably and in a unique environment. 

In addition to the drive-in movies, visit any mall in Bridgeton for a movie and shopping. Enjoy a day of fun at the mall for the whole family. 

Visit The East Point Lighthouse

A visit to the East Point Lighthouse is an opportunity to learn and experience the history of Cumberland County. Construction of the lighthouse ended in 1849, making it almost 200 years old. Over the years, it suffered lots of wear and tear. However, New Jersey has recently restored and refurbished it. 

It is an active lighthouse, and its light is on every night to help fishing boats navigate. Additionally, it is a museum that contains lots of interesting historical items. Visitors get an opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse. Enjoy the beautiful view of the Maurice River and surrounding areas where you get to the top. 

There’s a gift shop at the lighthouse where you can buy souvenirs for your visit. It costs $8 for adults and $4 for children to access the lighthouse.

Overview of Cumberland County in New Jersey

Cumberland County is one of the history-rich counties in New Jersey, which has existed for nearly three hundred years. It has a diverse population, beautiful geography, and growing industries. Further, It has pleasant coastal weather due to the surrounding water bodies making it a nice place to live. Additionally, its economy is vibrant, with rising job opportunities for the young and the old. 

Cumberland County is an essential part of New Jersey. It has a youthful population driving the demand for products and economic growth. 

Here is an overview of Cumberland County in New Jersey. 

History

Cumberland County officially began in 1748. It got its name from Prince William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland. 

Native Americans lived here before the arrival of European settlers in the 17th century. The Native Americans used the surrounding water bodies to make it an agriculturally rich location. Its agricultural heritage remains to make Cumberland one of the leading food growing and processing regions in the state and country. 

Another feature of the rich history of Cumberland is the excavation sites that date back centuries ago. Also, you will find many descendants of Native Americans living here today. 

Living In Cumberland County Today

Geography

In the South Western region of New Jersey, you will find Cumberland County. It is approximately 680 square miles in area and is a coastal lowland. Water bodies occupy 20% of the land mass.

To the West of Cumberland County, you find the Delaware River.  In the South is the Delaware Bay. Other water bodies in the county are the Maurice River in the North, the Tuckahoe River to the northeast, and on the southeast side, you will find West Creek. Rivers Manumuskin and Cohanskey are other major rivers in the county. Additionally, Union Lake is another big water body. It has earned the name “Island City” due to all these. 

Also, you will find extensive forest cover, salt marshes, and swamps along the lake and rivers. Wildlife is a part of life in Cumberland. Therefore, there are vast national parks. 

Demographics

Cumberland County is the sixteenth most populous of the twenty-one counties of New Jersey. According to the last census conducted in 2020, it has a population of approximately 155,000. It recorded a 1% decrease compared to the previous census results. The small size of the modern family is the probable cause of the population decrease. 

The census showed that 34,000 families were living in Cumberland and over 51,000 households. The average family size in Cumberland is 3.3. 

The majority of the inhabitants of Cumberland County are white, at 45% of the population. Hispanics at 34%, African Americans at 18%, and Native Americans at 0.9%. There are small numbers of Asians and other races within the county. Consequently, it is rated the sixth most diverse county in New Jersey. 

According to the 2020 census, 38 was the median age in Cumberland. Nearly a quarter of the population is below 18, while 15% is over 65. Additionally, the median family income was over $65,000.