The Cross Estate Gardens in Bernardsville, NJ
The Cross Estate Gardens in Bernardsville, Somerset County, New Jersey, is a collection of formal gardens and native plant communities. It is part of the New Jersey Brigade Encampment Site of Morristown National Historical Park, which the National Park Service acquired in 1975. The gardens have an interesting history and are well worth a visit. The gardens are open to the public on certain days and times of the year, so make sure to visit early to avoid any crowds.
This historic garden was formerly a Revolutionary War campsite. Volunteer gardeners keep it lush and full of rare plants, and bumble bees and butterflies can be seen fluttering about. The gardens have benches and a decommissioned water tower. They are open from dawn to dusk, and they are free to visit. If you have a dog, you can even bring it along!
The estate has a peaceful atmosphere and was designed by Clarence Fowler. Its formal walled gardens feature wisteria-covered pergolas and mountain laurel hedges. There's even a hiking trail through the grounds that leads to the estate's gardens. The Cross Estate Gardens are a must-see in Bernardsville, NJ. Soak up the beautiful landscape and enjoy a relaxing day at this historic garden.
The Crosses estate is home to the New Jersey Brigade encampment. The National Park Service protected the estate, but it was never maintained. Local residents have taken the responsibility of restoring the gardens and have been rediscovering them. They have trimmed overgrowth and replaced many of the lost specimens. However, there are no restrooms or other services at Cross Estate Gardens. Nevertheless, the gardens are worth the trip.
Visitors can visit the gardens and Morristown National Historical Park. These gardens were once the encampment site for the NJ Brigade during its winter encampment in 1779-1780. The gardens are maintained by volunteers of the New Jersey Historical Garden Foundation. You can reserve a spot in their garden tours mid-April through October. In addition to enjoying the beautiful gardens, you can also visit the historical park's museum.