New Jersey Pinelands

At more than 1 million acres, the Pinelands — or Pine Barrens (referring to the region’s sandy, acidic soil) — make up the East Coast’s largest track of uninterrupted forest from Boston to Richmond, Virginia. Filled with pitch pine, Atlantic white cedar, scrub oak trees, and a growth of rare pygmy pines, the Pinelands are also home to cranberry bogs and blueberry bushes, not to mention the legendary Jersey Devil, a horse-headed creature who is credited with wreaking havoc on the area for centuries. More than 700,000 people reside in the Pinelands, and many who call themselves "Pineys" live deep in the forests along backroads and rivers. Once ...

At more than 1 million acres, the Pinelands — or Pine Barrens (referring to the region’s sandy, acidic soil) — make up the East Coast’s largest track of uninterrupted forest from Boston to Richmond, Virginia. Filled with pitch pine, Atlantic white cedar, scrub oak trees, and a growth of rare pygmy pines, the Pinelands are also home to cranberry bogs and blueberry bushes, not to mention the legendary Jersey Devil, a horse-headed creature who is credited with wreaking havoc on the area for centuries. More than 700,000 people reside in the Pinelands, and many who call themselves "Pineys" live deep in the forests along backroads and rivers. Once a major supplier of bog iron, most industry towns are now little more than furnace remains. Three state forests make up the Pinelands' central portion: Brendan T. Byrne, Bass River, and Wharton, where you’ll find the bulk of Pinelands-centric attractions. Wineries are scattered within the region's southern portion, notably in Atlantic County, also home to several eateries and lodging choices. Outdoor enthusiasts, specifically hikers, campers, canoeists, and kayakers, will want to stick to the central pines, interspersed by the Batsto, Mullica, and Wading rivers.

About the Expert

Laura Kiniry is the author of Moon Handbooks New Jersey.