New Jersey, the Garden State, is a place of beaches, bustling cities, and vibrant culture. But beyond the well-known attractions lies a darker side—a realm of unexplained phenomena and ghostly encounters. From the haunted forests of the Pine Barrens to eerie historic sites, New Jersey is rife with tales of restless spirits and paranormal activity. So, if you’re ready for a chilling adventure, let’s explore the ten most haunted places in New Jersey.
10. Shippen Manor in Oxford, NJ
Shippen Manor, built in 1755, has a rich history, having been owned by Dr. William Shippen Sr. and his brother Joseph Shippen II. Today, it’s recognized on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Visitors have reported seeing a young boy in old-fashioned clothing on the porch, a woman’s torso darting around, and a Revolutionary War soldier roaming the grounds. Doors open and close on their own, and disembodied whispers fill the air. It’s no wonder Shippen Manor was featured on Ghost Hunters!
9. Burlington County Prison in Mount Holly, NJ
Operating from 1811 to 1965, the Burlington County Prison saw countless executions and gruesome events. Even though it featured a progressive design for its time, the prison is now home to many spirits of those who met their end within its walls. The prison yard was used for executions, and some inmates died trying to escape. Legend says some are even buried below the basement. The “death cell” and basement are the most active spots, with disembodied screams and moving objects reported frequently. Now a museum, it holds a dungeon full of ghostly tales.
8. Absecon Lighthouse in Atlantic City, NJ
The Absecon Lighthouse, built in 1857, is New Jersey’s oldest and perhaps most haunted lighthouse. Even though it was deactivated in 1933, its light shines bright with paranormal activity. The coast here has seen many shipwrecks, including the tragic Powhatan incident, where over 200 lives were lost. One of the first reported supernatural events was in 1905 when a lighthouse keeper claimed to see the Jersey Devil atop the tower. Since then, reports of ghosts, disembodied laughter, and mysterious dimes appearing have been constant.
7. Devil’s Tower in Alpine, NJ
Built in 1910 for sugar baron Manuel Rionda, the Devil’s Tower is shrouded in a tragic legend. It’s said that Rionda’s wife, upon seeing him with another woman, jumped to her death from the tower. Construction was halted, and the tower was never completed. Legend says driving around the tower six times backward will cause Mrs. Rionda’s ghost to control your car. Walking around it six times is said to summon the Devil himself. Visitors report being pushed by unseen forces while on the grounds.
6. The Historic Village at Allaire in Farmingdale, NJ
Originally a Native American burial ground, Allaire Village became a bog iron production facility in the 1800s. James Allaire transformed it into a self-sufficient village. Today, 13 original buildings remain within Allaire State Park, and the village is known for its ghostly residents. James Allaire’s first wife, son, and second wife all passed away in the family home, and local legend claims their spirits are trapped there. Visitors have reported seeing Allaire’s ghost sobbing on the staircase and his son interacting with those who bring him candy.
5. The Cranbury Inn in Cranbury, NJ
The Cranbury Inn, dating back to the 1750s, officially became an inn in 1780. With roughly 270 years of history, these walls have seen countless events. It once served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, with the attic hiding those seeking freedom. Staff and guests have reported unexplained occurrences, such as doors opening and closing on their own. One pregnant employee even had a storage closet door open for her as she approached. Some staff members claim to receive telepathic messages, warning them to turn off electrical fixtures.
4. The Spy House (Seabrook-Wilson House) in Port Monmouth, NJ
Built in 1663, the Spy House earned its name in the 1700s when Thomas Seabrook used it as an inn to spy on British troops. Legend has it that Seabrook’s ghost is among the many spirits residing at the Spy House. Locals report a ghostly woman searching for her baby, a small boy looking out the windows, and a sea captain patrolling the grounds. The notorious pirate Captain Morgan is said to have used the basement for torture, with screams occasionally heard from behind the basement door.
3. The Devil’s Tree in Basking Ridge, NJ
The Devil’s Tree, an isolated oak tree with dead limbs, stands in a field in Bernards Township. Local legend claims the tree is cursed. A farmer who murdered his family and hung himself from the tree in the early 20th century is said to have initiated the curse. Multiple deaths have occurred at the site. Legend says anyone who cuts down the tree will soon meet a similar fate. The tree emits supernatural warmth, preventing snow from settling around it, even in the winter.
2. The Emlen Physick Estate in Cape May, NJ
Built in 1879 for Dr. Emlen Physick Jr., this 18-room mansion has a history of short-term owners after the Physick family passed away, supposedly due to ghostly activity. Visitors have reported being touched and seeing a woman in vintage clothing. Museum management claims to have a recording of a child’s voice. The most unusual occurrence is the sighting of ghost dogs, with an entire pack patrolling the grounds.
1. Shades of Death Road in Warren County, NJ
Shades of Death Road, a 6.7-mile stretch in Warren County, is filled with local legends. Some say it’s named after the victims of highwaymen or the criminals themselves, hanged from the trees lining the road. Another legend tells of unruly squatters who fought over women, leading to frequent deaths. The road’s name reflects the violence and death associated with the area. Even after civilization arrived, the road retained its ominous moniker.
New Jersey’s haunted locations offer a chilling glimpse into the state’s hidden history and paranormal lore. From historic manor houses to cursed roads, these sites are filled with tales of restless spirits and unexplained phenomena. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just curious about the supernatural, these destinations promise a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Ready to share your own spooky story? Leave your comment below and tell us about your most chilling experience in New Jersey!
