Protected wetland and woodland preserve featuring boardwalk trails through diverse habitats. Wildlife viewing opportunities include birds, turtles, and aquatic life. Educational programs about wetland ecology. Maintained by Montclair Audubon Society. Accessible trails suitable for families with young children. Beautiful natural setting perfect for introducing kids to environmental conservation and wildlife.
Parents love Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve, with a 4.5-star rating from 154 reviews on Google. Highly rated for quality, safety, and great experiences for kids.
If you’re looking for a peaceful little escape, this preserve is a hidden gem. Walkability – The trail is short, easy, and calm — perfect for when you just want to slow down, breathe, and let nature work its magic. Photography – As someone who loves capturing nature’s beauty, I was delighted to find so many photo-worthy spots: the gentle river, tall trees, pops of wildflowers, and all those small, magical details. Maintenance – Everything felt clean, safe, and clearly cared for, which made the visit even more enjoyable. Parking – On my first visit, Google Maps sent me to the wrong side of the preserve, so I had a little adventure finding the real entrance — a narrow path tucked between two houses that’s easy to miss. There’s no official parking lot, so you’ll need to park on the street. Admission & Hours – It’s free and open every day, so you can visit whenever inspiration strikes. Overall – This is the kind of place you go when you need a short walk, a quiet pause, or a creative recharge with your camera in hand. Small, but full of heart. 🌿
Very nice and clean little wildlife preserve. We saw a ton of wildlife like deers, squirrels, birds, etc… definitely worth a visit and only takes about 20-30 minutes to do the whole trail. Definitely recommend!
For those seeking a quiet and remote walk, this is it. A preserve on its way to escalation offering a slice of flavor we all can use from the ordinary. Hidden in a rural neighborhood yet uniquely attainable from 2 entrances with a simple loop thru park. Go on a sunny or even snowy day.
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Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve is open Dawn–dusk daily.
Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve is located at Riverview Dr W, Montclair, NJ 07043 in Montclair, NJ.
Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve is Free price range. Contact them for current pricing and admission details.
New Jersey's #1 ranked zoo with over 1,400 animals on 20 acres in South Mountain Reservation. Features train rides, carousel, prehistoric playground, pony rides, giraffe feeding, butterfly tent, and a touch tank with stingrays. Offers homeschool programs, early childhood classes, behind-the-scenes tours, Family Nature Club, and summer camps for all ages.
Forest school in South Mountain Reservation following the Cedarsong Way of nature immersion. Children learn through sustained time outdoors — exploring, hiking, and connecting with the natural world. Enrichment classes promote social, emotional development and foster independence. Summer camp ages 4–7.
16-acre nature sanctuary with woodland trails, a three-story Tree House with bird's-eye forest views, butterfly garden, and sensory garden. After-school nature education classes, summer camps, and seasonal family events focused on environmental stewardship. Founded 1923.