Founded in 1923 by Cora Hartshorn, whose father developed Short Hills, the arboretum includes both a garden and untouched woodlands in its 16-acre tract. When Hartshorn died, she willed the arboretum to the town for all to enjoy. There are trails in the woods behind the stone barn, which anyone can use. The arboretum staff just asks visitors to close the gate behind them when they use the trails.

The stone barn is a historic structure from Hartshorn's days and was renovated in 2007, which included an addition. Programming for children and adults takes place in the barn, which features a kitchen classroom and an area dedicated to animals. The animals include assorted reptiles and a chinchilla, which is popular with children.

Programming takes place during the day for preschoolers and after school for older children. Teenagers also serve as volunteers and mentors to younger children. There is a variety of adult programming as well, including trips and hikes.

In addition to the trails and indoor programming, the arboretum has a bird watching area with assorted bird feeders. The birds are also captured on a Web cam, which people can watch on the organization's Web site.