Give your students an unforgettable outdoor learning experience at Island Beach State Park! Our field trips immerse students in one of New Jersey's last remaining undeveloped barrier islands, where they explore coastal habitats, discover native wildlife, and learn about the importance of protecting our natural resources through hands-on activities and guided exploration.
Barrier Island Ecology
On this naturalist-led field trip, students will investigate the unique ecology of the barrier island, observe plants and animals in their natural habitats, and participate in engaging, curriculum-based activities that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and environmental stewardship. Activities typically consist of 2 parts: Seining the Barnegat Bay & Beach Hike/Cleanup.
Seining the Barnegat Bay
Students will take a short hike to the edge of the Barnegat Bay. Depending on the grade level of the group, different topics are discussed, including: estuaries, tidal marsh ecology, spartina grass and its role, plant/animal species identification, adaptations, submerged aquatic vegetation, species diversity, and the importance of the salt marsh to humans and the Atlantic Ocean. Then, using a sein net, students will catch various species of fish, crabs, and shrimp, and record data from our catch before we release the animals back into the Barnegat Bay.
Beach Hike/Cleanup
Students will hike through the Maritime forest, dense coastal thickets, over the towering sand dunes and end on the beach. At Island Beach, there is a diversity of shells, and our naturalists have fascinating facts about the lives of the animals which made them. Other topics such as barrier island formation, sand dune function, shore birds, marine mammals, erosion and deposition, beach ecology, and the maritime forest can be discussed. The students will end with a beach cleanup, designed to emphasize the impact that trash has on our coastal environment and to stress the importance being good environmental stewards.
Whether students are exploring the beach, dunes, maritime forest, or the Barnegat Bay, every field trip is designed to encourage observation, discovery, teamwork, and a lasting appreciation for New Jersey's coastal environment!
Important Information:
Field Trip seasons are Spring and Fall (Contact us to inquire about alternate dates)
Our standard field trip is approximately 2.5 hours long, with additional program options available upon request.
Programs can be customized to complement your classroom curriculum and learning objectives.
