Wharton State Forest: Fall Foliage At Its Best

wharton state forest
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

New Jersey is well known for its Fall foliage. Right around this time of year, before the big freeze sets in, is the perfect time to set out in your RV for a vacation to see the changing of the colors in action. One of the best places to do that is Wharton State Forest. You’ll be amazed by the overwhelming abundance of Fall foliage every direction you turn. Located in Hammonton, it encompasses over 115,000 acres of land with over 500 miles of unpaved roads. A former bog iron and glass making industrial center, Wharton State Forest will amaze the outdoor lovers in your family.

Hikers and Outdoorsmen

With the 500 miles of unpaved roads you could easily hike somewhere different every time you visited the park. For the adventure seeker in you, you’ll want to set out for a day’s hike and explore the land. If you’re bringing a boat with you, Mullica River provides you with plenty of fishing and boating opportunities. Canoeing is a popular past-time, as it’s allowed in the Mullica, Batsto, Wading and Oswego Rivers. You can even hike along the Batona trail, a 50 mile trail connecting 3 different state parks.

Hunting

If hunting is the name of your game, then you’ll be glad to know that nearly 88% of the 155,00 acres of land are available for hunting. Deer, turkey, small game and water fowl hunting are all allowed within Wharton State Forest.

Guided Tours

You can learn about the forest itself by taking a guided tour via your smartphone. Just scan a QR code at each location and it will come up and tell you all about the forest, the building within and plenty more!

Bird Watching

You’ll be amazed at the number of different species of birds that inhabit Wharton State Forest. In a day you could see bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, marsh hawks, ospreys, great blue herons and countless other varieties, all right in front of you!

Atsion Mansion

A vacated former cranberry packing building and residence has been empty since 1882. Visit this historic vacation home of Samuel Richards, a prominent ironmaster. One of the many historic sites to see when you visit! When the last time you visited a historic house with no plumbing, electricity, or heat other than fireplaces? I’m willing to guess that it’s been awhile!

RV parks

Like most national state parks, you can stay in your RV within the state park. If you venture out, there are plenty of choices as Wharton State Forest is the most popular travel destination in the State. Just a quick search will show you

With the Fall season in full swing, it’s time to make the journey to Wharton State Park and enjoy all that it has to offer. Make your reservations today!

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