Learn About Us

We welcome guests of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities and are committed to safe and free access to our public park areas. We ask that you share our commitment to mutual respect for your fellow guests, and refrain from disruptions to the quiet enjoyment of Duke Farms. And remember, pedestrians and wildlife have the right of way on our roadways and trails.

Our primary mission is to be good stewards of this place for the benefit of wildlife and the environment. We hope that you will join us in this mission so that bald eagles continue to soar over Duke Farms. Please do not pester, feed, or kidnap the wildlife. We want you and the animals to be safe.

Do not steal or trample the plants. We love our gardens and natural landscapes and know that you do, too. Take care where you step, stay on the trail and out of the trees, and help the plants thrive. And please, leave the flowers and plants where they are, the birds and bees need them more than you do.

No balloons, kites, frisbees, and ballplaying. We thank you for helping keep our wildlife safe and undisturbed and our park clean – when balloons and kites escape, they become litter, and animals become entangled.

Same for drones. There are threatened and endangered birds here. They would rather not dodge your drone.

Be less noisy. Nature is best experienced when you can activate all your senses, and wildlife hides when it gets too noisy. Please, no loud music or boisterous gatherings. We invite you to slow down and listen. You might be surprised by what you discover.

Yes! This is what we are all about at Duke Farms. We have miles of trails to support many preferences and activity level – paved, gravel, and off-the-beaten-track; serene spaces and gardens for quiet contemplation; scenic vistas and views; and secret corners abundant with wildlife. Enjoy!

Small and informal picnics? Yes! Nothing better than a sunny day spent on a blanket with a good book and a sandwich. So, grab the picnic basket, or takeout from our café, and enjoy!

Large and boisterous picnics? Sorry, no. No grilling, alcohol, catered events, parties, pop-up tents, bocce tournaments, pick-up football games, volleyball, etc. We do not have facilities or capacity to support larger, more active gatherings, like athletic fields, pavilions, grills, or electricity, and the noise and activity are disruptive to wildlife and other guests. There are much better places very close by to comfortably accommodate that kind of fun including Somerset County Parks or Hillsborough Parks & Recreation.

No. We do not rent space for private parties or events. Sorry, no weddings, photoshoots, corporate events/meetings, memorials, birthday parties, baby showers, quinceanera, bar/bat mitzvahs, engagement parties, wedding proposal events, prom-posals, private memorials, baby gender reveals, beard competitions, wine and beer tastings, etc. See above for links to better venue options.

Yes, please give us a heads-up! If you plan to visit with a group of 12 or more, we ask that you please fill out our Group Registration Form so that we can better accommodate your visit. Please call 908-722-3700 x2 with any questions.

Yes. You can bring your own (see above on “small and informal picnics”) or visit our Farm-to-Table Café for a variety of tasty offerings made with ingredients sourced from our own farm and those from the surrounding region. Enjoy the view of our pollinator meadow from our outdoor eating area, our friendly staff are ready to serve you.

Take your refuse with you when you leave and dispose of and recycle it appropriately. Litter is not only ugly, it can be deadly to plants and animals. Duke Farms is a “leave no trace” natural area and we ask you to join us in implementing minimal-impact practices that allow everyone, including wildlife, to have an enjoyable time.

We do not have trash or recycling receptacles in the core area.

You can find bags at our entrance gate to pack up and take your trash and recyclables with you.

Personal photography and videography? Yes!

At Duke Farms you’ll find beautiful vistas, intriguing architecture, colorful flora, and inspiring landscapes. So, snap away! We welcome everyone to capture memories of your good time and hone your nature photography and videography skills at Duke Farms. Don’t forget to share your snapshots on our social media channels.

When taking your pics, please be mindful of your fellow guests and wildlife, and keep yourself safe. Do not block the flow of visitors and watch out for bikes; keep the planters, signs, or equipment where they are; stay a safe distance from wildlife, and please don’t climb the trees or architectural features.

Commercial photography and videography?

Sorry, no. Kindly find another place for your professional engagement/wedding, fashion, prom, pregnancy, baby-gender reveals, and family portrait photoshoots, as well as any photography used to create a product for sale or promotion.

We know from experience that professional photoshoots and commercial photography disturb wildlife and our visitors and often result in the blocking of roads and access to buildings, trampling of plants, property damage, near misses with bikes and automobiles, and involve equipment, lighting, props, and wardrobe changes that are disruptive and threaten public safety. Honestly, it’s just too much for us to manage and we cannot make exceptions.

Sorry, no. We personally love dogs and pets. Our wildlife residents? Not so much. Dogs and other pets are known to hassle wild animals and trample plants, and pet waste can pollute rivers and streams. Plus, many people are afraid of dogs, even the best most well-behaved pooch, and we want to be a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

Yes. If you rely on a service animal that is trained to support your access, safety, and enjoyment at Duke Farms, they are welcomed, guests.

Heck, yeah! We love bikes! And the best part about biking at Duke Farms? No cars! We only require basic common sense for safety: wear your helmets, follow the rules of the road, kindly stay on the 12+ miles of paved and gravel paths and off the mulched paths, and yield to walkers and wildlife.

For more bicycle safety information, please visit our friends at Ridewise and League of American Bicyclists.

Yes, if you have mobility challenges and it aids you to better access Duke Farms, bring your electric bike; note that we do limit the speed limit to 15 mph on our roadways. If it’s just a way for you to go faster, no, please keep it at home. Be safe, wear a helmet and protective gear, and yield to pedestrians and wildlife. Also, be mindful of bicycles. Electric skateboards, scooters, hoverboards, and motorized cars are not allowed,

Yes! If there’s snow on the ground, enjoy!

Sorry, no. Please, stay out of the lakes and streams, and keep an eye on the kids. Our waterways are home to an abundance of wildlife that are best left undisturbed. Also, we have taken great care to restore the lakeshores and stream banks to prevent erosion, improve water quality, and better support wildlife – disturbing the shoreline disrupts food supply, shelter, and protection for plants and animals. Enjoy the view but stay out of the water.

The obvious no-nos: No firearms, weapons, open fires, smoking/vaping of any substance, hunting or fishing, boating, remote control vehicles, snowmobiles, ATVs, electric scooters or hoverboards, or business solicitation/commercial activity.

No. But we do have fun educational programming for all ages. We encourage visitors to explore on their own and do not give formal, guided tours. Our app can help with turn-by-turn directions on a Google-based map, audio tours, and other property info. Download the app for iPhone or Android.

You can also check our website and the app for notice of special educational programs on the property.

Do you have difficulty getting around on foot or by bike? Duke Farms provides an accessibility shuttle for those with mobility challenges and disabilities. The shuttle provides transportation to the Orientation Center (between April 1 and October 1) and goes to the Orchid Range ONLY – no exceptions. Reservations can be made in parties of two (2) allowing for one passenger with the visitor requesting assistance. Children are NOT allowed on the Accessibility Shuttle. The shuttle runs once per hour on a pre-registration system. This allows enough time for transport and sanitization of the vehicle between reservations. Learn more about the Accessibility Shuttle and our accessibility services here.

Please note that the assistance shuttle is a service to assist visitors with mobility restrictions and is not a ride. Click here to make an accessibility shuttle reservation.

You can find public bathrooms at our Orientation Center and on our trails on Oak Way and West Way. Check out the map on our app for wayfinding assistance.

If it’s a true medical emergency, dial our safety and security staff at (908) 243-3600 or 911 and tell them you are at Duke Farms.

If you require assistance for a less urgent matter, call our security team at (908) 243-3600.

We have trained public safety and security staff who take their job of keeping everyone safe very seriously. They have a close working relationship with local emergency personnel and are contacted to assist if there is a medical emergency on-site.

Personal photography and videography? Yes!
At Duke Farms you’ll find beautiful vistas, intriguing architecture, colorful flora, and inspiring landscapes. So, snap away! We welcome everyone to capture memories of your good time and hone your nature photography and videography skills at Duke Farms. Don’t forget to share your snapshots on our social media channels.

When taking your pics, please be mindful of your fellow guests and wildlife, and keep yourself safe. Do not block the flow of visitors and watch out for bikes; keep the planters, signs, or equipment where they are; stay a safe distance from wildlife, and please don’t climb the trees or architectural features.

Commercial photography and videography? Sorry, no.
Kindly find another place for your professional engagement/wedding, fashion, prom, pregnancy, baby-gender reveals, and family portrait photoshoots, as well as any photography used to create a product for sale or promotion.

We know from experience that professional photoshoots and commercial photography disturb wildlife and our visitors and often result in the blocking of roads and access to buildings, trampling of plants, property damage, near misses with bikes and automobiles, and involve equipment, lighting, props, and wardrobe changes that are disruptive and threaten public safety. Honestly, it’s just too much for us to manage and we cannot make exceptions.

Visit the Bike Tent located ~¾ of a mile from the Orientation Center. Participants 18+ must sign an electronic waiver and show a valid photo ID. Participants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present to sign their waiver. Waivers can also be completed online beforehand. Participants must show a photo ID even when the waiver is filled out at home.

Bike rentals are $8 for two (2) hours for adults and $5 for riders under 18. Fees are payable by credit or debit card only.

Yes, you must wear a helmet while participating in the Bike Rental Program. Your bike rental comes with a helmet. Or you are welcome to bring your own from home. But if you rent a bike from us, you’re wearing a helmet. No exceptions!

Please note that the last bicycle rental time is no later than 5:00 pm. All bicycles must be returned by 5:30 pm.

We have 125 bicycles available for rent, including:

• Youth bicycles (Ages 6+, no training wheels or trailers)
• Adult tricycles (Limited supply, reserved for individuals with physical limitations or balance issues)

Yes, all of our bikes have adjustable seats.

Unfortunately, we do not have any bike or carrier options for small children.

No, nothing may be attached to Duke Farms’ rental bicycles.

No, our bikes are only meant for one rider at a time.

Bikes are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. On weekends, there is often a wait for bicycles in the afternoon. Remember, rentals are limited to two hours so many can enjoy this service.

Groups are welcome to rent bikes. Every participant must fill out a waiver. If you have a large group, consider having participants fill out waivers ahead of time. The link to the waiver can be found at www.smartwaiver.com/v/dfbikeshare. All participants must bring valid photo ID.

To ensure availability, large groups should consider visiting during the week or as early as possible on weekends. We cannot reserve bikes –  however, if you call ahead we can ensure the bike tent is staffed to efficiently service a large group.

• Be alert and pay attention to your surroundings.
• Use safe speeds.
• Keep to the right and pass on the left.
• Slow down and announce when passing pedestrians or other bicyclists.
• Bikes must yield to pedestrians.
• When stopping, move off the trail.
• When riding in a group, don’t take up more than half the width of the trail.
• Know which trails are bike-friendly. Mulch can pop bike tires.
• Rent bikes must remain in the Core area of the property.

It is recommended you carry a cell phone at all times. If your bike becomes inoperative or you are in an accident, call Duke Farms Security at 908-722-3700. If it is a true physical emergency, do not hesitate to dial 911.

Given the maintenance and safety concerns posed by our winters, bikes are put in storage for the duration of the winter. We utilize this time to perform tune-ups on all of the bikes to ensure they’re in top shape when they return in the spring. Additionally, bikes are not available during inclement weather.

The eagle nest at Duke Farms was discovered by our staff in the fall of 2004. In the fall of 2012, Hurricane Sandy’s 70+ mph winds tore off the upper half of the nest tree, destroying the nest completely. The pair built a new nest 100 feet south of the original site in late December 2012, which is still actively used.

The nest is located in an American Sycamore tree in a restricted area of the property.

The nest is about 80 feet off the ground.

The camera transmitted the first video in March 2008. In the fall of 2013, the camera was moved to the new nest tree. The camera was struck by lightning shortly before the eaglets fledged in 2015, but a new camera with infrared for night viewing was installed prior to the 2016 nesting season.

The camera is in the nest tree and is positioned to view the nest from above. The camera can be maneuvered remotely to pan, tilt and zoom.

A total of 29 eagle chicks have been raised and fledged from this nest since 2005.

About 5 weeks.

About 10 – 12 weeks from when they hatch.

Yes. In 2009 and 2010 it was noted that both the male and female were NJ-banded birds, because they each had a green NJ band on one leg and a silver federal band on the other. A photo was able to capture the information on the male’s state band, so we know that he is from a 2000 nest near Rancocas Creek. In 2011, a different female returned with the male, which we know because she is not banded.

Yes, the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife has banded 13 of the Duke Farms chicks. Please note that they were not banded in 2020 due to Covid-19 social distancing guidelines. See the table below.

The oldest of the three males from the 2009 nest (C-96) was identified while fishing in 2013 at the Conowingo Dam in Maryland. The smallest male from the 2009 nest (C-94) was observed nesting in Connecticut and has fathered at least four chicks as of 2015. Finally, another male that was banded at Duke Farms in 2014 (D-98) was found near Little Sebago Lake in Maine. Unfortunately, local residents witnessed him being attacked by a nesting adult bald eagle, and he was later found dead.

More information can be found on our blog.

Duke Farms hosts the eagle camera and the internet connection. The Endangered and Nongame Species Program and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ conduct the on-site banding and provide biological consulting and support with our educational programs.

In 1973, when the Endangered and Nongame Species Conservation Act was passed, there was just one nesting pair in a remote forest in Cumberland County. In 2016, there were more than 150 active nests monitored in New Jersey. To learn more about eagle nests in NJ, visit The Division of Fish and Wildlife to read the annual Bald Eagle Report. The state’s eagle population would not be thriving without the efforts of the dedicated eagle volunteers who observe nests, report sightings, and help protect critical habitat.

Be a citizen scientist!  Nest camera watchers can submit this data sheet to assist biologists in tracking food items that are delivered to the nest.

• Buy a Conserve Wildlife license plate. Show everyone on the road that you value wildlife and believe in preserving our state’s wildest creatures
• Keep a safe distance from any active nests.
• Protect critical habitat from disturbance and development.
• Share your knowledge and your passion and educate others about wildlife.

• Link to banding video (short and interpretive)
• Link to live banding video from 2014 (long and real-time; 1 hour 40 minutes)
• Duke Farms Eagles E-Book, by Jim Wright
• Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey Bald Eagle Project

Accessible parking is located in front of the parking area at the Farm Barn Orientation Center.

We have:

• Large print editions of our brochures, maps and field guides
• An introductory video (Closed captioning provided on iPad – ask our staff)
• Assisted listening devices (Available in the classroom – ask our staff)

• The Farm Barn Orientation Center and Orchid Range both have automatic door entrances
• A wheelchair-accessible video screening room
• An exhibition space, accessible on the first floor of the Farm Barn
• A fully accessible café space
• Several universal design community garden plots
• Closed Captioned online classes
• American Sign Language Interpreters are available for classes, with ten (10) days’ notice
• While we do not allow household pets, we welcome working, trained service animals as described by the ADA
• Accessible bathrooms at the Farm Barn Orientation Center, Orchid Range, Community Garden and on trails (See map for locations)
• A private, universal restroom is available for those who may need an aide’s assistance
• An ADA-rated vehicle that can accommodate a wheelchair – The Accessibility Shuttle is available during operational hours on a first come first serve basis. Reservations required
• A map indicating the most easily accessible pathways is available at the Orientation Center
• As an outdoor park, some pathways throughout the park may offer challenges to those with wheelchairs/scooters, but most of our pathways are accessible, and new accessible pathways are being constructed as funding allows

Shuttle reservations are required and they are free of charge. No-show reservations are subject to a fee if proper notification isn’t given to our Visitor Service Department. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early for your reservation.

The shuttle is a service available by reservation for visitors with limited mobility. It is not a property tour. The shuttle runs 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and it is available every day Duke Farms is open, weather permitting. We are closed Mondays and Sundays.

Yes. The seatbelts are to be worn by all passengers. No exceptions.

No. The shuttle does not run in rain, snow, ice, thunderstorms and extreme cold. It is an open-air cart. The accessibility shuttle is only available if weather permits. Any reservations made that are canceled due to poor weather conditions (e.g. heavy rain, or lightning and thunder) will be rescheduled by our Visitors Services Department. Visitors will receive a phone call or email.

Shuttle service runs between the Orientation Center to a drop-off point on the property.
The Accessibility Shuttle is not a property tour. Drivers do not make stops at any locations beyond the Orientation Center and The Orchid Range.

Please note that a reservation is only available for two (2) visitors – the visitor requiring assistance and one additional person to travel with them while using this service. No exceptions. Groups of more than two (2) people that require this service should plan accordingly as the group will temporarily split up at the Orientation Center and can reconnect at The Orchid Range.