Known to locals as "Down Jersey," rural Salem County is rich in ecological treasures. Numerous parks and trails, canoeing and kayaking launch sites along the Delaware River make it a hot spot for birders. Highlights include the Madhorse Creek Wildlife Management Area, a 5,826-acre area of tidal marsh and upland habitat in Lower Alloways Creek Township that is rich in saltwater fish, waterfowl, pheasant and rabbit. Mannington Meadows is an area along Route 45, between Salem and Woodstown, that is prime viewing area for local and migratory birds and wildlife. Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is a 2,000-plus-acre area of protected meadowland in Pennsville. And during the month of May when more than 400 varieties of azaleas are bursting with color, the privately-developed Jay Pratt Azalea Gardens welcomes the public to enjoy the blooms. 

Hop in the car and cruise the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail. The 300-mile auto trail, which stretches from Perth Amboy to Deepwater, focuses on five aspects of coastal life -- maritime history, coastal habitats, wildlife migration, historic settlements, and relaxing environments -- lets you get up close and personal with the region's rich eco-assets. To get the most of your drive, start at the Welcome Center at Fort Mott where you can pick up informational materials or get the scoop on Heritage Trail highlights from a ranger.

Fans of the Pine Barrens can learn more about its unique ecosystems at the education center at the Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge in Medford. Located on 185 tranquil Pine Barrens acres, easy-walking trails wind through woodlands and wetlands, where deer, raccoon, fox, hawks, owls, bald eagle and other native species call home.

At the Rancocas Nature Center in Mount Holly, one of the New Jersey Audubon Society's network of nature centers, birding is just one of the many activities on the agenda. Programs for everyone from toddlers to seniors cover everything from butterflies and botany to composting and conservation.

When you arrive at Palmyra Cove Nature Park, you'd never know you are just minutes from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia. Hidden amid the woodlands, the 350-acre Park is an important stop-over for migratory birds. The environmental education center has hands-on activities for children and adults that explain what visitors will discover as they wind through the trails, wetlands and tidal marshes. Bring your camera; the vistas from the roof-top viewing area are spectacular!