National Park, NJ

Tucked along the Delaware River in Gloucester County, National Park is a quiet, close-knit borough of about 3,000 residents sitting right across the water from Philadelphia. Originally founded in the late 1800s as a riverside summer retreat, the community keeps a relaxed, small-town atmosphere today. Its signature gathering spot is Red Bank Battlefield Park, where neighbors walk along the river bluffs, watch passing ships on the Delaware, and enjoy the open green space around historic Fort Mercer.

ATTRFamartin / CC BY-SA 4.0

Daily life is grounded and friendly. Local children attend the town’s elementary school through sixth grade before heading to Gateway Regional for middle and high school. Because the borough is primarily residential, residents usually make the quick drive into neighboring West Deptford or Woodbury for grocery runs, dining, and errands. Quick access to I-295 also keeps commutes into Center City Philadelphia under twenty minutes, making it a convenient home base for anyone who wants peaceful waterfront living close to the city.