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Frequently asked questions
At Duke Farms, we are proud to welcome guests of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities to experience this living landscape. Your presence supports a shared vision: one where nature leads, carbon footprints shrink, and people reconnect with the systems that sustain us all.
As you explore, we invite you to join us in fostering a space of mutual respect and quiet reflection—where every visitor can enjoy the sights, sounds, and science behind a nature-positive, carbon-negative future. Please remember that both pedestrians and wildlife have the right of way on our trails and roadways, and that small acts of courtesy help preserve this space for everyone.
Thank you for being part of our community and this shared journey toward a more resilient world.
At Duke Farms, our highest responsibility is to care for this land in a way that benefits wildlife, restores ecosystems, and models a more sustainable future. Every eagle in the sky, every fox in the field, and every frog in the pond is part of a delicate balance we work to protect.
We invite you to join us in that mission by observing wildlife from a respectful distance. Please refrain from feeding, approaching, or disturbing animals in any way. By keeping them wild, we keep them safe—and ensure that future generations can experience the awe of seeing bald eagles soar over a thriving, carbon-negative landscape.
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At Duke Farms, every plant plays a role in restoring ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and modeling what a regenerative landscape can be. From native wildflowers to meadow grasses and forest understory, these living systems are not just beautiful—they’re essential.
We ask that all visitors help protect this work by staying on marked trails, avoiding fragile areas, and leaving flowers and plants untouched. While it may be tempting to pick a bloom or wander off-path, remember: the birds, bees, and countless unseen pollinators depend on these plants to thrive. Your care helps the landscape flourish—for today and for generations to come.
At Duke Farms, even the smallest choices make a big difference. While balloons, kites, frisbees, and ballplaying may seem harmless, they can easily disrupt wildlife, damage habitats, and leave behind litter that endangers animals.
We ask that you help us keep this landscape safe, clean, and focused on nature by leaving those items at home. When we reduce distractions and minimize waste, we create space for wildlife to thrive—and for people to reconnect with the natural world in more meaningful ways.
Thank you for being part of this shared effort to care for the land, the species it supports, and the future we’re building together.
Duke Farms is home to a number of sensitive species, including threatened and endangered birds that rely on this landscape for safe nesting and foraging. The presence of drones—no matter how well-intentioned—can cause unnecessary stress, interrupt natural behaviors, and even drive wildlife away from critical habitat.
For that reason, drones are not permitted anywhere on the property. By keeping the skies clear, you help ensure that this protected landscape remains a place where wildlife can thrive—and where nature leads the way toward a healthier, more balanced future.
At Duke Farms, quiet is part of the experience. The more still and attentive we are, the more nature reveals itself—birdsong in the canopy, the buzz of pollinators, or even the subtle splash of a turtle slipping into water.
We ask visitors to help preserve this atmosphere by keeping noise levels low, avoiding loud music, and refraining from boisterous gatherings. Many of the species that call this place home are sensitive to sound, and human noise can disrupt natural behaviors.
In fact, Duke Farms regularly uses bioacoustics monitoring to study the soundscape of our ecosystems—tracking birds, frogs, and other wildlife through their calls. Quiet conditions help us gather better scientific data and better understand how climate and land management impact biodiversity.
By lowering the volume, you create space—for reflection, for connection, and for discovery. Thank you for listening closely—and helping us protect what we can only hear when the land is still.
Yes—wildlife observation is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Duke Farms. From bald eagles soaring overhead to frogs calling from vernal pools, this landscape is alive with biodiversity, and we welcome visitors to witness it with curiosity and care.
With more than 18 miles of trails—ranging from paved paths to quiet meadows and shaded forest edges—there’s something for every interest and pace. Many of these areas have been restored specifically to support wildlife, and our team actively monitors species through tools like wildlife cameras and bioacoustics recording.
We invite you to slow down, look closely, and listen deeply. The more gently you move through the landscape, the more nature will reveal itself—and the more you’ll see how your presence supports our shared vision of a thriving, nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
We warmly welcome small, informal picnics—there’s nothing quite like enjoying a simple meal outdoors while listening to birdsong and feeling the breeze through the trees. Whether you’ve brought your own blanket and basket or picked up something fresh from our café, your quiet presence helps us care for this land and its inhabitants. Every mindful visit supports our mission to nurture a nature-positive, carbon-negative future, where both people and wildlife can thrive.
Larger, more active gatherings, however, are best enjoyed elsewhere. Activities like grilling, alcohol service, catered events, amplified music, or competitive games create noise, waste, and disruption that can stress wildlife and diminish the peaceful experience for others. Because we lack the facilities for such events, we encourage you to explore more suitable venues for your gathering. By keeping your time here gentle and in harmony with nature, you play an important role in protecting the beauty, biodiversity, and tranquility we are working so hard to sustain.
While we’re honored that you’d think of us for your special celebration, we do not rent space for private parties, receptions, or other personal events. As a conservation and education center, our spaces are dedicated to mission-aligned convenings—gatherings that advance environmental stewardship, scientific discovery, and engagement in support of a nature-positive, carbon-negative future. This focus ensures that our team, facilities, and campus remain fully devoted to protecting wildlife, restoring habitats, and inspiring action.
Personal celebrations, even joyful ones, bring noise, activity, and logistical demands that can be disruptive to this work and to the peaceful experience we offer guests. If you’re looking for a beautiful setting for weddings, showers, birthdays, or other private occasions, there are many wonderful, more suitable venues nearby that are designed to host such events.
We’re always glad to welcome groups who want to experience the beauty, biodiversity, and sense of renewal our grounds provide. If you’re planning to visit with 12 or more people, you must complete our Group Registration Form in advance. This allows us to prepare for your arrival in a way that safeguards the wildlife, habitats, and tranquil atmosphere we work so hard to protect, while ensuring your group has the best possible experience.
By letting us know ahead of time, you help us balance the needs of all visitors with the needs of the land—honoring our mission to foster a nature-positive, carbon-negative future. We look forward to hosting you in a way that aligns with our conservation work and creates a memorable visit for everyone.
you’re welcome to bring your own (see “Small and Informal Picnics” above) or enjoy the fresh, seasonal offerings at our Farm Barn Café—supplied entirely by local farms, including our own. Every bite you take here supports regional agriculture, reduces food miles, and helps us advance our mission of creating a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
As a Leave No Trace natural area, we ask all visitors to take their refuse with them and dispose of or recycle it appropriately once they leave. This simple act has a powerful impact: litter isn’t just unsightly—it can be deadly to plants and animals, disrupting the delicate ecosystems we work to protect.
By practicing minimal-impact habits, you help ensure that Duke Farms remains a place where both people and wildlife can thrive, supporting our shared goal of a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
You won’t find trash or recycling receptacles in the core part of our Campus so be prepared to carry out what you carry in. By carrying out everything you bring in, you join us in safeguarding this landscape for future generations—proving that small, mindful actions can have lasting conservation benefits.
At Duke Farms, we welcome personal photography to deepen your connection with nature and share its beauty with others. Whether you’re snapping a wildflower in bloom, a kestrel in flight, or a peaceful moment along our trails, we’re glad you’re inspired by this unique place.
We also ask that your photography supports our work of sustainability and conservation science and inspires others to become advocates.
Personal photographyis casual, non-commercial image-taking for your own enjoyment, memories, or to share with friends and family—whether that’s on your phone, a camera, or even film.
It does not include staged photoshoots, photo sessions with clients, use of props or lighting equipment, or any photography that is part of a business, brand, media outlet, or paid partnership which are prohibited at Duke Farms.
Duke Farms is a place for reflection, learning, and connection with nature. As such, professional and commercial photography is prohibited.
Professional photographyincludes any staged, posed, or planned photo sessions involving clients, models, or a photographer hired for a service. This applies even if payment occurs offsite or the images are for personal use.
For more information please review our Photography Policy.
We love animals—both domestic and wild—but for the safety and well-being of our wildlife, pets are not permitted at Duke Farms. Even the most well-behaved dog or pet can unintentionally stress or harm wild animals, trample sensitive plants, or leave waste that pollutes rivers and streams. By leaving pets at home, you help protect the delicate balance of this ecosystem and support our mission to create a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
We also strive to be a safe, welcoming place for everyone, and we know that some visitors—especially children—may be fearful of dogs or other animals. Your choice to enjoy Duke Farms without a pet allows both people and wildlife to feel at ease, ensuring this remains a sanctuary for all who come he
Trained service animals are always welcome at Duke Farms in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These working partners provide essential support to their handlers, and we’re committed to ensuring they can accompany visitors throughout their time here. While our “no pets” policy helps protect wildlife and sensitive habitats, service animals are not considered pets—they are vital companions whose presence helps make Duke Farms accessible to all.
To protect the safety of wildlife, other guests, and the service animals themselves, we ask that:
The service animal is well-trained and consistently performs its required task or function for the owner.
The service animal is leashed, harnessed, or tethered unless the owner’s disability prevents the use of these devices.
The service animal is well-behaved and does not cause disruptions to other visitors.
Up to two service animals may accompany a visitor, provided all of the above requirements are met.
By following these guidelines, you help us keep Duke Farms a safe, welcoming, and accessible sanctuary—honoring both our mission to create a nature-positive, carbon-negative future and our commitment to inclusivity.
Absolutely! We love bikes—and with no cars on our paths, cycling here is a safe and peaceful way to explore the beauty of the land. Riding through our Campus of paved and gravel trails connects you to the landscapes we work to protect, all while reducing your carbon footprint and supporting our vision of a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
To keep the experience safe for everyone, we ask that you wear a helmet, follow the rules of the road, remain on paved and gravel paths (no riding on mulched trails), and yield to both walkers and wildlife. Every courteous pedal stroke helps preserve the tranquility of this place for all who share it. For more information about cycling safety, please visit Ridewise and League of American Bicyclists.
For those with mobility challenges, an electric bike can be a wonderful way to experience more of Duke Farms—and you are welcome to bring one. To keep our trails safe and serene, we ask that you keep your speed under 15 mph, wear a helmet and any needed protective gear, and always yield to pedestrians, wildlife, and other cyclists. This ensures everyone can share the paths respectfully, in harmony with our mission to create a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
If an e-bike is simply a way to go faster, we ask that you leave it at home and enjoy our trails at a more leisurely pace. For safety and to protect the character of our natural areas, we do not allow electric skateboards, scooters, hoverboards, or motorized cars. By following these guidelines, you help us preserve both the accessibility and the peacefulness that make Duke Farms a sanctuary for all.
When snow blankets the ground, Duke Farms transforms into a winter wonderland—and you’re welcome to explore it on skis or snowshoes. Gliding quietly through the landscape is a peaceful, low-impact way to experience the season’s beauty, all while honoring our mission to protect wildlife and restore habitats as part of a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
As you enjoy the trails, please stay on designated paths, yield to other visitors, and move with care to protect both yourself and the delicate winter environment. Your thoughtful presence helps ensure that this magical season can be safely enjoyed by all—people and wildlife alike.
We ask that you enjoy our waterways from the shore and not enter them—no swimming, fishing, or wading. These lakes and streams are home to an abundance of wildlife, from fish and amphibians to birds and insects, all of which are best left undisturbed. Remaining on land helps protect the fragile balance of these habitats and supports our mission to create a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
We’ve invested great care in restoring our lakeshores and stream banks to prevent erosion, improve water quality, and provide shelter and food for plants and animals. Even small disturbances can undo this work, impacting both wildlife and the health of the water. By staying out of the water, you help safeguard these ecosystems so they can thrive for generations to come.
certain activities and items are not allowed here because they conflict with our mission to protect wildlife, restore habitats, and provide a safe, peaceful space for all visitors. These include:
Firearms or weapons of any kind
Open fires
Smoking or vaping of any substance
Hunting, fishing, or boating
Remote-controlled vehicles
Snowmobiles or ATVs
Electric scooters or hoverboards
Business solicitation or commercial activity
Each of these restrictions helps safeguard the land, water, and wildlife, reduce pollution and disturbance, and ensure that Duke Farms remains a sanctuary for both nature and people. By honoring these guidelines, you help us create a nature-positive, carbon-negative future—one visit at a time.
We do not offer formal, guided tours for the general public—but we do provide many ways to explore and learn on your own. Turn-by-turn directions can be found on Google Maps. We’re also building a new digital guide, launching in the Fall of 2025,
For visitors with mobility challenges or disabilities, Duke Farms offers an Accessibility Shuttle to help you enjoy your visit. The shuttle runs from the Orientation Center to the Orchid Range only (April–October) and operates on a pre-registration system to ensure a safe, comfortable experience. Reservations are made in parties of two, with one passenger being the visitor requesting assistance. The shuttle runs once per hour to allow time for transport and vehicle sanitization between rides. Please note: children are not permitted on the Accessibility Shuttle, and this service is intended solely to assist visitors with mobility restrictions—it is not a general ride service.
Providing this service is one way we strive to make Duke Farms accessible to all, while maintaining the health of the land and the peaceful experience of the property. You can learn more about our accessibility services here or make a reservation for the Accessibility Shuttle here. By planning ahead, we can better accommodate your visit in harmony with our mission to create a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
that will include a self-guided tour highlighting the stories, science, and stewardship behind our work.
We regularly host fun, educational programming for all ages—check our website and app for the latest offerings.
In addition, we offer tours of key projects to our mission-aligned partners and similar organizations. We encourage partners to reach out if they are interested.
Whether you join a program, explore with our app, or connect with us as a partner, your visit supports our mission to create a nature-positive, carbon-negative future.
You can find public bathrooms at our Orientation Center and on our trails on Oak Way and West Way.
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.
Visit the Bike Tent located ¾ of a mile from the Orientation Center. The Bike Rental Program operates on a first-come-first-serve basis. Prior to your ride, you will need to provide a photo ID and sign a waiver at the Bike Tent rental desk. If you are under 18, you must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that all riders must sign the waiver to rent a bicycle.
Adults: $25, Children (12 & under): $15
(Helmet rental included with bike rental)
Helmets are required for all riders.
Helmet Rental Only: $8
Please note that there are no discounts for shorter rental durations. Likewise, if you return your rental after 2 hours, you will be subject to late fees of $25 per hour for each hour past the 2 hour rental period, as outlined in our waiver.
All Participants must be 3′-10″ to ride.
Payments are payable by credit or debit card only and only at the bike tent at the time of rental.
Yes, helmet use is mandatory 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. “No helmet = no ride”!
April through October, the rental desk at the Bike Tent is open Thursday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
No bikes are rented past 4:00 pm, no exceptions.
All rentals must be returned by 5:00 pm to avoid a late fee of $25 per hour.
The bicycle program is closed on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Please check our website or social media to find out about closures.
The Bike Rental tent is closed November through March.
We currently have a fleet of approximately 120 bikes.
Townie 7D bikes in step-thru and step-over models, Electra Loft, Sun, Trek and Flourish bicycle brands.
For visitors requesting accessibility options, we have a couple of low step sun bicycles and adult tricycles. Reservations for these must be made in advance by calling the front desk.
Yes, however, bike seats will be adjusted specific to your height by our trained Bike Attendants prior to your rental.
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, but prior notice is required for groups of 12 or more via our group request form. Rentals are on a first-come, first-serve basis. For large groups, it is recommended that each individual fills out a waiver in advance to make the renting process quicker and smoother.
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 original pair built a new nest 100 feet south of the original site in late December 2012. In June 2023, the nest collapsed in several sections – this is not an uncommon occurrence with eagle nests. That following August, two adult eagles were seen at the nest, a male and female. However, it was unclear if the male was the original A/59 or a new one – it’s indeterminable if the original pair will return. However, there is currently a pair of bald eagles hard at work in the same sycamore tree that was home to the previous nest.
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 before 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.
How many young have been raised in the nest? A total of 32 eagle chicks have been raised and fledged from this nest since 2005.
About 5 weeks.
About 10 – 12 weeks from when they hatch.
In addition to technical difficulties in observing the chicks using the cam, it can be difficult to positively identify individual chicks. These dates are estimates.
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.
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, residents witnessed him being attacked by a nesting adult bald eagle and he was later found deceased.
Duke Farms hosts the eagle camera and the internet connection. The Endangered and Nongame Species Program and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey 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 dedicated eagle volunteers who observe nests, report sightings and help protect critical habitats.
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.
Accessible parking is located in front of the parking area at the Farm Barn Orientation Center.
Shuttle reservations are required, and they are free of charge. 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 is available April through October. Specific dates and times are listed on our reservation page, weather permitting.
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 the weather permits. Any reservations made that are canceled due to poor weather conditions (e.g. heavy rain or lightning and thunder) can be rescheduled through Calendly.
Shuttle service runs between the Orientation Center and the Orchid Range. 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. The accessibility shuttle does not accommodate more than one pickup or drop off per hour/reservation.
Try giving us a call or send us an email through our contact page.
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