Lorrimer Sanctuary - Franklin Lakes, New Jersey

Lorrimer Sanctuary: A Natural Haven in Franklin Lakes

Lorrimer Sanctuary, located at 790 Ewing Ave, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417, offers a tranquil escape into the heart of nature. This nature preserve, operated by the New Jersey Audubon Society, provides a unique blend of educational programs, scenic trails, and recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. With a strong focus on conservation and community engagement, Lorrimer Sanctuary has become a beloved local destination and a valuable asset to the region.

About Lorrimer Sanctuary

Established to protect and preserve a significant portion of the Pascack River watershed, Lorrimer Sanctuary encompasses 130 acres of diverse habitats. These include woodlands, meadows, streams, and wetlands – creating a rich tapestry of ecological diversity. The sanctuary’s mission is to provide a space for both human enjoyment and the ongoing health of the local ecosystem. It’s a place where families can connect with nature, learn about its importance, and contribute to its preservation.

Key Features and Amenities

• Location: 790 Ewing Ave, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
• Contact: Phone: 9084814090
• Website: njaudubon.org
• On-site Services: The sanctuary offers a range of on-site services including guided nature walks, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities.
• Accessibility: Lorrimer Sanctuary is committed to inclusivity. It features a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its beauty and learn about its natural wonders.
• Recreational Activities: Visitors can explore the sanctuary’s extensive network of hiking trails, perfect for all skill levels. Numerous picnic tables are available for a relaxing outdoor meal.
• Restroom Facilities: Public toilet facilities and gender-neutral toilets are conveniently located on the premises.
• Payment Options: The sanctuary accepts a variety of payment methods, including debit cards, NFC mobile payments, and credit cards.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Lorrimer Sanctuary is particularly popular with families. It provides a wealth of kid-friendly activities, including kid-friendly hikes and engaging nature classes for children. The recent “nature infused cocktail workshop” with Mary was a resounding success, demonstrating the sanctuary's ability to host engaging and educational events.

Visitor Feedback and Reputation

Lorrimer Sanctuary consistently receives positive feedback from its visitors. Currently, it boasts 88 reviews on Google My Business, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The reviews consistently highlight the sanctuary’s beautiful space and the quality of its events. Many visitors commend the engaging nature classes and the welcoming atmosphere.

Community Engagement & Organization

Lorrimer Sanctuary operates as an Association / Organization, deeply rooted within the New Jersey Audubon Society. This affiliation ensures a commitment to conservation efforts and responsible stewardship of the land. The sanctuary actively collaborates with local schools and community groups to promote environmental awareness and education. The gift shop offers a selection of nature-themed merchandise, providing a tangible reminder of visitors’ experiences.

Planning Your Visit

Lorrimer Sanctuary is an excellent destination for a day trip or a leisurely afternoon. It’s easily accessible and offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and learning. The combination of natural beauty, educational programs, and family-friendly activities makes it a truly special place. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a budding naturalist, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Lorrimer Sanctuary has something to offer everyone. It’s a place where memories are made and a deeper appreciation for the natural world is cultivated.

Key Takeaways: Lorrimer Sanctuary is a well-maintained nature preserve offering diverse activities, accessibility, and educational opportunities, consistently praised for its beauty and engaging programs.

👍 Reviews of Lorrimer Sanctuary

Jaimie G.

5/5

Beautiful space with some lovely events. We attended the nature infused cocktail workshop with Mary and had a great time! We’ll be back for the children’s nature classes

Meghan R.

5/5

Came for the first time today and already looking forward to returning and seeing what's changed! Trails are pristinely kept, and since the Sanctuary is set back from the road, it feels like you're disappearing into the trees. Educational signs are posted every so often with illustrations depicting the local wildlife and facts about them and their habits. Met a friendly staff member who told me a bit about future plans, which I'm looking forward to seeing! Wildlife everywhere, absolutely incredible.

CHIA-JUI T.

5/5

We had a really good time here. People are very friendly and kind. They taught us how to make a wreath. You could book the event with them. I highly recommend.

Joseph B.

5/5

This is a beautiful and diverse nature education center in Franklin Lakes, staffed by terrific people. There is so much to observe with all the senses! You can go casually for a stroll around, or stay for hours. I've been going there for 40 years, and what's BRAND NEW is the deer exclosure around most of the property. By preventing New Jersey's over-abundance of deer from browsing down all the native plants the moment they start growing, the fence is allowing myriad new plants to appear! The photo below is of a baby spice bush (lindera benzoin), which is habitat for a wide variety of insects and other animals. Rubbing a leaf with your fingers creates the most enticing aroma. You will discover something new every time you go, and the strolls are very relaxing, interesting and even therapeutic for all ages.

Bernie M.

5/5

Attended their native plant sale. Wide selection and Mary was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable...all while multi tasking!

Essie W.

5/5

Came to visit for an evening event, the kids had a great time, I would recommend enjoying a program here!

SANDIE L. B.

5/5

My grandson and I go most Wednesdays. We love the trails and the gift shop. He has quite a collection of plastic snakes.

Erika M.

5/5

Recently went to a birthday party here and PLEASANTLY SURPRISED at how much fun my 5 & 9 year old had! They offer so much - gift shop is very moderately proceed, birthday parties, knowledge, information, summer programs for the young explorer - the owner of the home is very accommodating, down to earth, knowledgeable, great with kids and inviting. We will 100% be back to explore the grounds and continue to learn about the beauty of nature (in our own backyard)

Jaimie G.

5/5

Beautiful space with some lovely events. We attended the nature infused cocktail workshop with Mary and had a great time! We’ll be back for the children’s nature classes

Meghan R.

5/5

Came for the first time today and already looking forward to returning and seeing what's changed! Trails are pristinely kept, and since the Sanctuary is set back from the road, it feels like you're disappearing into the trees. Educational signs are posted every so often with illustrations depicting the local wildlife and facts about them and their habits. Met a friendly staff member who told me a bit about future plans, which I'm looking forward to seeing! Wildlife everywhere, absolutely incredible.

CHIA-JUI T.

5/5

We had a really good time here. People are very friendly and kind. They taught us how to make a wreath. You could book the event with them. I highly recommend.

Joseph B.

5/5

This is a beautiful and diverse nature education center in Franklin Lakes, staffed by terrific people. There is so much to observe with all the senses! You can go casually for a stroll around, or stay for hours. I've been going there for 40 years, and what's BRAND NEW is the deer exclosure around most of the property. By preventing New Jersey's over-abundance of deer from browsing down all the native plants the moment they start growing, the fence is allowing myriad new plants to appear! The photo below is of a baby spice bush (lindera benzoin), which is habitat for a wide variety of insects and other animals. Rubbing a leaf with your fingers creates the most enticing aroma. You will discover something new every time you go, and the strolls are very relaxing, interesting and even therapeutic for all ages.

Bernie M.

5/5

Attended their native plant sale. Wide selection and Mary was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable...all while multi tasking!