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If you and your family are looking
for a great way to experience nature in the Pine Barrens, make the
Woodford
Cedar Run WIldlife Refuge a "must see". Located in Medford NJ,
this wonderful place is a haven for injured animals of all types.
Whenever possible, the animals are rehabilitated and released, but
some have become permanent residents here at the refuge due to the
nature of their injuries.
(west)
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(Photo courtesy
FREC)
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Forest
Resource Education Center,
(FREC) is located in Jackson Township in northern Ocean County.
The FREC includes the Interpretive Center and the New Jersey State
Forest Nursery. The FREC strives to teach and practice forest stewardship
- managing New Jersey's forest resources so that we have healthy
trees and forests, clean air and water, and places to learn and
enjoy the outdoors.
(north)
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For
anyone interested in learning about the nature and the ecology of
the Pine Barrens, Wells
Mills County Park in Waretown
is an ecellent source of information. Here you'll find 900
acres of pristine pinelands, a cedar-spring fed lake with canoe
rentals, miles of trails and a three-story nature center.
Visit
the Nature center and take advantage of good displays and the great
view from the third floor!. Take binoculars for birdwatching!
(east)
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If
shorebirds are your passion, be sure to check out the Forsythe
National Wildlife Refuge in Absecon. A long loop road
through the wetlands on the shore of the Egg Harbor Bay a birder's
paradise any time of year, but especially in early spring, when
migration begins. A surprising element is the skyline of Atlantic
City looming in the southeastern horizon. If
you're wondering what bird you saw while at the shore, in the Pine
Barrens or in your own backyard, try this great bird identification
website! Lots of information: http://www.whatbird.com/
(east)
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WETLANDS
INSTITUTE AND MUSEUM,
Stone Harbor - Bird watching events held on 32 acres of privately
owned land as well as 6000 acres of state owned land. Also included
are numerous exhibits and an aquarium depicting local marshland
life. Focus is on preserving the Diamondback Terrapin, which can
be seen on the nature trail. Gift shop with extensive book selection,
as well as gifts for all ages. OPEN ALL YEAR. 609-368-1211
(south)
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A
hike through the Pine Barrens may be the best way of getting close
to nature. be on the lookout for the
Pine Barrens Treefrog, an endangered frog about 1 1/2
inches long, who makes his home here. You may also see white-tailed
deer, fox, wild turkey, ruffled grouse and river otters, to name
a few. Many botanical wonders abound as well, such as pitcher
plants, rare orchids, sundews and curly grass fern. The Batona
Trail, a 49.5-mile hike through the Pine Barrens beginning in
Ongs Hat and ending in Bass River State Forest in Burlington County,
traverses beautiful areas not accessible by car. The trail is maintained
by the NJ State Park Service and the Batona
Hiking Club, the latter group being largely responsible
for its creation and expansion over the years. It is easy to walk
in most areas and can be accessed from many points throughout the
region. Many areas rich in history are along the way, such as Four
Mile, Butler Place, Martha and Washington.You'll also pass Carranza
Memorial and Apple Pie Hill. Campsites are available
in Wharton State Forest. And by the way, "Batona" stands
for BAck TO NAture!
(north
to southeast)
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Leaming's
Run Gardens
offers a delightful relaxing walk along winding paths where every
turn is another celebration of nature's beauty. Each visit is unique
with ever changing vistas from May through October. Benches are
provided for your enjoyment along the way as you are invited to
enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
(south)
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The
Forked River Mountains, perhaps best viewed driving on County
Route 539 north from Barnegat, have some of the most scenic vistas
in the Pine Barrens. The Forked
River Mountain Coalition works
diligently to keep this region in its natural state. The view from
the roadways, however, is dimmed by the breathtaking beauty within
this region. Pristine ponds, meandering sugar-sand trails winding
through the hills - nature in the pines is seen at its best here.
Take a guided hike or van trip with either the FRMC
or Ocean
County Parks Dept.- the many fire roads and trails can be confusing
for the newcomer.
(east)
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For
the serious botanist, a visit to Webb's Mill is in order.
Walk on the boardwalk through wetlands where you may find some
rare endangered species, such as curly grass fern, orchids and
several carnivorous plants such as sundew or pitcher plants. Please
remember - look but don't touch!
(north)
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Be
sure to hike, bike, kayak or drive the Ecotour of Great Bay Boulevard
in Tuckerton, down the scenic 6.7 mile road, ending on the Bay at
the Rutgers
University Marine Field Station. "Great Bay Boulevard EcoTour
Trail Guide" can be found at the Tuckerton
Seaport (609)296-8868 and First Bridge Marina & Kayaks (609)
296-1888.
(east)
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See map
| The
Pine Barrens is becoming a popular tourist destination. It offers
history, nature, boating, camping, fishing, swimming, and most
of all, peace and tranquility. It's important to families who
live here, whether for a few years or many generations, that
our peace and tranquility be preserved. Keep in mind that the
local lawyer or doctor won't look any different than his neighbor
who farms the land. Thousand dollar suits aren't what impress
people of the Pines - taking care of nature and fellow man is
what matters. To that end, it is important for you to know that
as a visitor to our precious Pine Barrens, you should show respect
for the flora and fauna, for the historical buildings or their
remains, and show respect for the "locals". Walk and
drive gently. Treat our Pine Barrens as you would want a visitor
to treat your own home town - and your own family. Thank you. |
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PineyPower LLC
P.O. Box 307, Barnegat NJ 08005
609-698-2501
Member, Barnegat Chamber of Commerce
Please note:
Unless otherwise
noted, all articles and photographs on this site are the property of PineyPower,
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Thank you.
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