The park is situated on land formerly owned by the Johnson family, founders of the nearby Johnson & Johnson company.
The animal haven serves as a local agricultural education site, focusing on common domesticated farm breeds.
The Raritan River, which borders the park, acts as a natural boundary for the sprawling Johnson Park trail network.
Johnson Park Animal Haven is a public wildlife sanctuary located along the banks of the Raritan River in Piscataway, New Jersey. The facility functions as a petting zoo and educational exhibit, featuring a variety of farm animals including goats, sheep, donkeys, and llamas. Visitors can access paved fitness trails that connect the animal enclosures to expansive picnic groves and open green spaces. The park is managed by the Middlesex County Parks and Recreation Department. It provides a community-focused environment designed to facilitate interaction with livestock in an accessible outdoor setting. The site is part of the larger Johnson Park system, which encompasses over 470 acres of land.
The wooden fencing near the main enclosure gate provides the clearest views of the animals with the park's greenery in the background.
Bring a stroller or wagon for young children, as the walking path between the parking area and the animal enclosures is significant.
Check the county website for seasonal feeding or animal interaction schedules before arrival.
Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride on the adjacent multi-purpose trails that follow the river.
Do not expect a traditional safari-style zoo; this is a small-scale farm animal exhibit intended for casual observation.
The animal exhibit may have reduced visibility or limited access during extreme winter weather.
Do not feed the animals human food; stay behind designated fencing and keep noise levels low near enclosures.
