Best Time to See Squirrels in New Jersey
September, May and April is the best time to see squirrels in New Jersey. Based on 15,889 verified iNaturalist observations, here is exactly when squirrels are most active across the year in New Jersey.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
15,889 verified observations of squirrels in New Jersey, recorded across 12 months of the year on iNaturalist.
When squirrels are recorded in New Jersey
Peak month
September
2,275 records (14.3% of the year)
| Month | Observations | Share |
|---|---|---|
| January | 624 | 3.9% |
| February | 628 | 4% |
| March | 1,298 | 8.2% |
| Aprilpeak | 1,882 | 11.8% |
| Maypeak | 2,148 | 13.5% |
| June | 1,724 | 10.9% |
| July | 996 | 6.3% |
| August | 848 | 5.3% |
| Septemberpeak | 2,275 | 14.3% |
| October | 1,782 | 11.2% |
| November | 940 | 5.9% |
| December | 744 | 4.7% |
Squirrels you are most likely to see
| Species | Verified observations |
|---|---|
| Eastern Gray Squirrel | 10,055 |
| Eastern Chipmunk | 2,883 |
| Groundhog | 2,474 |
| American Red Squirrel | 231 |
| Southern Flying Squirrel | 118 |
| Northern Flying Squirrel | 1 |
Sightings of squirrels in New Jersey peak in September, when 2,275 of the year's 15,889 verified observations are logged — about 14.3% of the annual total. Activity stays high through September, May and April.
The quietest stretch is January, February and December, when squirrels are hardest to find — January sees just 624 records. If a reliable sighting matters, plan around the peak window rather than the off-season.
The squirrels you are most likely to encounter in New Jersey are Eastern Gray Squirrel, Eastern Chipmunk and Groundhog — the most-recorded species in the state. Each keeps its own seasonal rhythm, but the month-by-month pattern above reflects every reported sighting together.
Where to go
Best places to see squirrels in New Jersey
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail — National Scenic Trail
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area — National Recreation Area
- Great Egg Harbor River
- Morristown National Historical Park — National Historical Park
- Ellis Island Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument — Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument
- Gateway National Recreation Area — National Recreation Area
Plan your squirrel trip in New Jersey
Start with live tours near Appalachian National Scenic Trail, then compare a nearby stay and a broader wildlife backup before you lock in the trip.
GetYourGuide
Live tours nearbySee live tours near Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Use the live GetYourGuide widget to compare local departures and activity styles close to the main squirrel viewing area.
Booking.com
Stay nearbyStay near Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Compare hotels, cabins and lodges close to the best squirrel viewing area in New Jersey.
Viator
Broader backupBook a squirrel tour in New Jersey
Compare guided wildlife tours, boat trips and nature experiences if you want a second travel network beyond the live widget.
Gear to see them
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to see squirrels in New Jersey?+
September is the single best month, and the broader peak window runs through September, May and April, based on 15,889 verified iNaturalist observations.
When are squirrels hardest to see in New Jersey?+
January is the quietest month for squirrels in New Jersey, with only 624 verified records.
Are squirrels active year-round in New Jersey?+
Squirrels are recorded in 12 of 12 months in New Jersey, so they can be seen year-round, with a clear peak in September.
More wildlife in New Jersey