Covering 1.1 million acres of oak and pine forest and swamp, Pinelands National Reserve is one of New Jersey's largest natural wonders. Under the grounds of the reserve is a giant aquifer holding 17 trillion gallons of pure water. Hundreds of species of wildlife live in the swamps and forests of this region and the Pine Plains is the largest pygmy forest in America, with a 12,000 acre stretch of dwarf trees. The region includes four state forests, Wharton, Penn, Bass River and Brendan Byrne.
The Pinelands is home to over 700,000 residents in the 56 communities housed within the Pineland region. It is the country's first national reserve, and holds many threatened species of plant and animal life within its borders. The Pinelands is a patchwork of pine oak forests, streams and rivers, large farms, hamlets, and small towns stretched across southern New Jersey.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Pinelands region for its hiking, biking, and camping, as well as fishing and canoeing along the Batsto and Mullica Rivers. There are several wineries in the area, as well as golfing, and museums.
The Pinelands area is located throughout the south central region of New Jersey, primarily in Burlington, Gloucester and Atlantic Counties.
