Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the name Great Egg Harbor come from?

Dutch explorers in the 1600s were so astonished by all the breeding birds and eggs at the mouth of the river that they named the bay Great Egg Harbor. The river subsequently took on the same moniker.

What is a National Wild and Scenic River?

The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created by Congress in 1968 to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The Wild & Scenic Rivers Act is notable for safeguarding the special character of these rivers, while also recognizing the potential for their appropriate use and development. It encourages river management that crosses political boundaries and promotes public participation in developing goals for river protection. Rivers may be designated by Congress or, if certain requirements are met, the Secretary of the Interior. Each river is administered by either a federal or state agency.

The Act purposefully strives to balance dam and other construction at appropriate sections of rivers with permanent protection for some of the country's most outstanding free-flowing rivers. To accomplish this, it prohibits federal support for actions such as the construction of dams or other instream activities that would harm the river's free-flowing condition, water quality, or outstanding resource values. However, designation does not affect existing water rights or the existing jurisdiction of states and the federal government over waters as determined by established principles of law. Designation neither prohibits development nor gives the federal government control over private property.

Protection of the river is provided through a River Management Council comprised of local government representatives, voluntary stewardship by landowners and river users, and through state protections. In most cases not all land within the boundaries are not publicly owned. Visitors to these rivers are cautioned to be aware of and respect private property rights.

Learn more at www.rivers.gov.

What is the connection between the National Park Service and the Great Egg Harbor National Wild and Scenic River?

In the case of the Great Egg Harbor National Wild and Scenic River, a partnership was established between the National Park Service and a local partner, because there is no federal land ownership. The Great Egg Harbor Watershed Association, and local partners, collaborate to protect the river’s values, promote recreational access, and restore wildlife habitats. While there is no National Park Service Visitor Center, the Atlantic County Parks provide in person visitor services, and a number of other state forests and wildlife management areas provide public access to the river.

Where can I get more information, including a National Park Service brochure, Passport stamp and Junior Ranger program?

For general information about the Great Egg Harbor Wild and Scenic River visit the website of the Great Egg Harbor Watershed Association.

For visitor information and services, visit the Atlantic County Parks Warren E. Fox Nature Center at 109 Route 50, Mays Landing, New Jersey 08330 or contact at 609-625-1897, daily 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.