From the white cedar and pitch pine forests along the banks of Oswego River to the natural areas bordering the Batsto and Mullica Rivers . . . from the 50-mile Batona Trail that winds through the Wharton, Byrne and Bass River State Forests to the expansive recreation area at Atsion Lake . . . from the historic 18th and 19th century industrial Batsto Village to the hundreds of spots for cabin, tent, trailer or wilderness camping, Wharton State Forest is New Jersey’s “Outdoors Central.”

Wharton’s 115,111 acres are truly a natural wonderland. In the heart of the Pine Barrens, Wharton‘s diverse terrain lures hikers, horseback riders, cross-country skiers and mountain bikers to its all-year trails. Loops and forks let you choose the path you want to take, the plants and wildlife you want to see and the challenge level you want to achieve.

Wildlife abounds throughout Wharton Forest and there are numerous ways to spot the little critters. Load your motor boat, canoe or kayak into the Forest’s waters and, depending on the time of year, you might see bald eagles, various species of hawks and owls, ospreys, great blue herons, swans, bluebirds and hummingbirds. Or hook your line and spend a lazy afternoon fishing. Don’t have a boat? Outfitters within the Forest can set you up with the proper gear for a river trip that lasts just a few hours or overnight.

On a hot summer day, nothing cools you off like a picnic and a dip in the waters at the Atsion recreation area. And after a stressful week at work, what can be more relaxing than a night or two in the great outdoors. Wharton offers a wide range of camping facilities to suit everyone from the serious outdoors person to the outdoors wanna-bes.

Almost 100 tent and trailer sites are equipped with fire rings, picnic tables and are within walking distance to shower and restroom facilities. Cabins provide a few more creature comforts including running water, electricity, and furnishings; several are designed to accommodate people with disabilities. And for the want-to-get-away-from-it-all crowd, wilderness campsites put you smack in the heart of the forest. But be warned, you can only reach those by foot, canoe or horseback so be prepared to carry in all your gear.

Part of Batsto’s appeal is its history. Originally purchased in 1876 by Joseph Wharton, Batsto was once a thriving bog iron and industrial center and the 33 restored buildings that comprise the historic village recount the town’s glory days.  Throughout the old grist mill, saw mill, workers homes, post office, general store and other landmarks, crafts people and costumed guides often re-create Batsto’s history.