Within the Pinelands National Reserve is the largest tract of land in the New Jersey park system — Wharton State Forest. It spreads across Atlantic, Camden and Burlington counties for a total of 124,350 acres. According to the DEP, 43 animals found in the forest are listed as threatened or endangered.  

Wharton State Forest is one of the most popular destinations in the state park system. “People enjoy Wharton in many different ways, whether to hike, canoe, camp, watch wildlife, fish, hunt, or to drive along the forest’s many miles of unimproved roads,” said DEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette last week when announcing that results of public surveys are imminent about a plan for access while protecting natural resources and ensuring public safety in the forest. “As we continue to advance the development of this plan, we must be sure to do so responsibly so that the ecologically sensitive plants and animals found in this special place are protected for all to enjoy, as well as all of its natural beauty,” LaTourette said. 

The survey results will be presented at a meeting on Feb. 8 and pre-registration is strongly recommended.