Welcome to the Friends of Great Swamp NWR Website
Our independent, non-profit organization is committed to protecting and supporting Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The 8,000 acre Refuge, located in Morris County, New Jersey, provides excellent recreational opportunities for visitors as well as protecting valuable habitat for wildlife. Look here for upcoming events, things to do, and ways you can help.
Refuge Status Report
The Helen C. Fenske Visitor Center is open Tuesday 10am to 4pm, Thursday through Sunday 10am to 4pm. The Refuge is open from sunrise to sunset. The America the Beautiful Interagency Pass, including the Annual Pass, the Senior Pass and the Disabilities Pass, are not available for sale at Great Swamp NWR. Interpretive tours are available for small groups including school classes, scout groups, and other youth and adult organizations. To arrange for a group visit, contact Jared Green, Refuge Specialist at jared_green@fws.gov.
Upcoming Events
Friday Walks with Friends
Second Sunday with Friends – Birding Hot Stove Q&A
Friday Walks with Friends
Woodcock Walk 2026
Stay Informed
Our monthly email newsletter “Happenings” will bring you current information on events at Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and other items of interest. Delivered right to your email in-box so you won’t miss a thing.
The Great Swamp featured on NJ PBS!
Second Sunday, March 8, 2026, 1:30 – 3:00, 2026
Join Robert Lin, Randy Little and Carolyn Rubinfeld for an inside look at the sport of “birding” leading into spring migration. Learn about the legends, current trends, statistics, season regulars, and predictions of surprises. Please submit questions to info@friendsofgreatwamp.
The March program will be in-person at Helen C. Fenske Visitor Center, 32 Pleasant Plains Road, Harding Township, NJ and also virtually on Zoom. Registration is required. ttsu.me/birdingqanda
The Zoom logon will be emailed to all registrants on Sunday, March 8 at Noon.
Sponsored by Friends of Great Swamp NWR and USFWS with generous support from the Marta Heflin Foundation.
Credit: Chuck Hantis
Click here to go the full list of recent sightings on the eBird website.