The ocean, bay, sand dunes, plants, animals, and physical forces that shape Island Beach State Park can all be found in other places outside the park's boundaries. What is relatively unique is that all of these elements are found together in a relatively large expanse of preserved barrier island. Most of the land within Island Beach and the aquatic habitats that surround much of the park's terrestrial habitats are protected from large scale human disturbance.
Despite being located a relatively short drive from some of the the most densely populated areas in the United States, Island Beach State Park is shaped more by natural forces than by the hand of man. It provides a rare glimpse of the beach habitats that native Americans and early European explorers found along the New Jersey coast many hundreds of years ago.
You can explore some of the natural features of the park by clicking on the links below. You can also find more nature information at LBI nature.
- Animals of Island Beach State Park
- Common fish species found off the coast of New Jersey and in Barnegat Bay
- Red Foxes - learn more about one of the park's elusive inhabitants.
- Jersey Shore Bird Checklist
- Beachcomber Guide
- The Plants of Island Beach State Park
- The Physical Environment of Island Beach State Park