South Jersey Firefly Festival

The festival includes a number of fun, family-friendly, education stations scattered along a half-mile, self-guided trail. We recommend people arrive between 8:00 and 8:15 pm and allow an hour to complete the walk. Some species appear at dusk; some appear when it is darker (the best viewing is after 9:00). The spectacular tree-top species is near the “fishing ponds”. Bring a flashlight or use your phone's flashlight function. NO DOGS PLEASE.

NEW FOR 2025: Since last year, the pedestrian bridges over Mantua Creek have been completely replaced. From the bridge you may be able to spot a third firefly species that prefers the creek environment. Those who don't mind a little hill climbing can walk a bit farther and look down on the creek fireflies from a higher perspective.

Poets, scientists and people of all ages have long been fascinated by fireflies (lightning bugs). A familiar sight in parts of the US, fireflies are the fairies of summer nights. Viewing “nature’s light show” is part of the magic of growing up in New Jersey. But their numbers are declining. Join us as we explore the world of fireflies…the Night Country… and how you can help their numbers increase.

WHERE: From Rt. 553 (Woodbury-Glassboro Rd) turn west onto Bark Bridge Rd. Park in the lot on the left. The trail begins and ends here at a Welcome Tent. Please car pool, as space for parking is limited. The festival is staffed by volunteers of the Gloucester County Nature Club and employees of the NJ State Park Service.

Attendance is free.

RAIN DATE: Sunday, June 29th at the same time. Any weather delay will be announced via Meetup.

Sponsored by:

• Gloucester County Nature Club
• NJ State Park Service
• Friends of Tall Pines State Preserve