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New Jersey
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New Jersey State Parks

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Jackson State Forest
Eastern Goldfinch © stateparks.com
Eastern Goldfinch
Eastern Goldfinch © stateparks.com
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JACKSON STATE FOREST
JACKSON STATE FOREST
Jackson State Forest is a captivating natural haven bursting with breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems. As one roams through its endless acres of towering trees and lush greenery, a sense of serenity and wonder envelops them. The forest boasts an incredible array of flora and fauna, from towering oaks and majestic pines to vibrant wildflowers and delicate ferns, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of colors and scents. Its tranquil trails wind through peaceful meadows, babbling streams, and hidden lakes, providing solace and escape for avid hikers, nature enthusiasts, and contemplative souls seeking an intimate connection with the wilderness. As the sunlight filters delicately through the canopy above, illuminating the forest floor, one cannot help but feel humbled by the sheer majesty and timeless elegance of Jackson State Forest.
History of the Area
Jackson State Forest, located in New Jersey, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The forest is named after Andrew Jackson, the 7th president of the United States, despite the fact that he had no connection to the area.

Before European colonization, the land that now encompasses Jackson State Forest was inhabited by the Lenape Native American tribe. They lived off the forest's resources, including hunting, fishing, and gathering plants for sustenance.

In the 17th century, Dutch and English settlers arrived and began to establish towns and farms in the region. The forest's location was advantageous for these settlers as it provided an ample supply of timber for constructing homes and other buildings.

By the mid-19th century, the area became known for its iron industry. The abundance of hardwood trees in the forest made it an ideal location for iron furnaces, which required large quantities of charcoal. Timber from Jackson State Forest fueled these furnaces, enabling the iron industry to flourish.

However, as the demand for iron decreased in the late 19th century, the forests began to recover and were eventually protected by the New Jersey State Commission of Forestry. The forest was officially established as Jackson State Forest in 1933, becoming a preserved area for wildlife and recreational activities.

Jackson State Forest covers approximately 11,000 acres and offers various recreational opportunities, such as hiking, horseback riding, and hunting in designated areas. It is also a habitat for diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species.
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Area Campgrounds
Pine Cone Resort
340 Georgia Road
Freehold, NJ
732-462-2230
Turkey Swamp Park Campgrounds
66 Nomoco Road
Freehold, NJ
732-462-7286
Butterfly Camping Resort
360 Butterfly Road
Jackson, NJ
732-928-2107
Indian Rock Family Campground
920 West Veterans Highway
Jackson, NJ
732-928-0034
Laurel Pond Resort Condo Association
720 Route 537
Jackson, NJ
Maple Lake Campground
Route 528
Jackson, NJ
732-367-0177
Tip Tam Camping Resort
301 Brewers Bridge Road
Jackson, NJ
732-363-4036
Surf and Stream Campground
1801 Ridgeway Road
Toms River, NJ
732-349-8919

Directions
1. Start your journey on the Garden State Parkway heading south.
2. Take exit 98 for NJ:34 toward I-195/Freehold/Wall Township.
3. Keep left at the fork, follow signs for County Road 524 W/Jackson Mills Rd and merge onto CR:524 W/W Main St.
4. Continue to follow CR:524 W until you reach a roundabout; take the second exit onto Bennetts Mills Rd/CR-619 N.
5. Follow Bennetts Mills Rd/CR:619 N for approximately 6 miles until you see signs indicating entrance into Jackson State Forest.

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New Jersey
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New Jersey State Parks

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