Wharton State Forest
Being the largest state forest in New Jersey, Wharton State Forest is over 100,000 acres. Wharton is part of the New Jersey Pine Barrens, a unique ecological area characterized by sandy soils, pitch pine forests, and a network of wetlands. This habitat supports a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are rare or endangered. The forest is divided by rivers and streams, including the Mullica, Batsto, and Wading Rivers.
Like the rest of the pinelands, Wharton State forest features a unique ecosystem of sandy, acidic soil and vast pine forests. This area is home to many rare and common plant species such as pitch pine, Atlantic white cedar, and various carnivorous plants like pitcher plants and sundews.
When you first enter Wharton State forest, it feels like many of the other forests in south Jersey. There are a lot of campgrounds, RV parks, and many trails that are very wide for hiking, but barely enough for a vehicle. Once you travel deep into this vast forest, you may hear nothing but nature, the air around you, or even your own blood flowing in your own ears. The serene experience may make you feel as if not even another soul is close to you.
