Exploring New Jersey's Pine Barrens
Description:
Not far from the Eastern seaboard is a world where pygmy pines, carnivorous plants and cranberry bogs rule. It's New Jersey's legendary Pine Barrens.
Here, you'll stroll along sandy trails through a habitat of meandering rivers, bogs, wetlands and stunted forests.
But don't get too comfortable -- this is also the home of the hideous Jersey Devil.
The story goes that in the year 1735, a Mrs. Leeds, who already had too many children, said that if she had another child, she wished it would be "the devil." And wouldn't you know, she soon got pregnant and gave birth to a creature with cloven hooves, bat wings, and a forked tail. To this day, this devil creature is said to stalk the Pine Barrens...
Ask anyone who lives here and they'll tell you, "Don't camp alone."
Kayak photo courtesy of Jeremiah Connelly.
Here, you'll stroll along sandy trails through a habitat of meandering rivers, bogs, wetlands and stunted forests.
But don't get too comfortable -- this is also the home of the hideous Jersey Devil.
The story goes that in the year 1735, a Mrs. Leeds, who already had too many children, said that if she had another child, she wished it would be "the devil." And wouldn't you know, she soon got pregnant and gave birth to a creature with cloven hooves, bat wings, and a forked tail. To this day, this devil creature is said to stalk the Pine Barrens...
Ask anyone who lives here and they'll tell you, "Don't camp alone."
Kayak photo courtesy of Jeremiah Connelly.
Author: Melody Moser
Day 1 - Atlantic City
Begin your first day exploring Batsto Historic Village then take a break and enjoy the shady Bass River State Forest. Go for a swim or hike the trails. Then head over to the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge for bird and wildlife viewing.
2
Bass River State Forest
Location:
view in google maps762 Stage Rd
Atlantic City, NJ 08087
Phone:
(609) 296-11143
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
Location:
view in google maps800 Great Creek Rd
Atlantic City, NJ 08231
Phone:
(609) 652-1665Day 2 - Atlantic City
Chatsworth is famous for its Cranberry Festival held every October. If you're here at that time, don't miss it... you'll never forget the beauty of the cranberry bogs, flooded, undulating with sparkling red berries.
Enjoy breakfast at historic Chatsworth General Store & Buzby's Cafe, then head out to one of New Jersey's scenic rivers for a fun kayak or canoe experience.
1
Chatsworth General Store & Buzby's Cafe
Location:
view in google mapsRoute 563 & 1st Street
Atlantic City, NJ
Phone:
609-894-4415/609-726-90002
Mick's Canoe And Kayak Rental
Location:
view in google maps3107 County Road 563
Atlantic City, NJ 08019
Phone:
(609) 726-1380,(800) 281-13803
Adams Canoe Rental
Location:
view in google maps1005 Atsion Road
Atlantic City, NJ 08088
Phone:
(609) 268-0189Day 3 - Atlantic City
There's nothing like a pie from Penza's, and you should stop here even if it's to purchase one to take home with you. If yesterday's kayak or canoe experience left you wanting more, rent a canoe or kayak at Palace Outfitters for a trip down the Winding River.
Later, relax at the Renault Winery Resort. Play golf, take a tour of the winery, and enjoy a memorable six course dinner at the Renault Gourmet Restaurant.
Want something more casual? Try Mediterranean a la Carte at Joseph's Restaurant.
5
Renault Winery Resort
Location:
view in google maps72 North Bremen Avenue
Atlantic City, NJ 08215
Phone:
+1 609 965 2111