Explore NJ Forest Resource Center Hiking Trails
Review & photos courtesy Tada Dalotto
Immerse yourself in nature education, recreation, and hiking adventures at the New Jersey Forest Education Center in Jackson Township. The forest education center hiking trails wind through the rare Pine Barrens ecosystem, inviting visitors of all ages and abilities to explore this unique pine barren ecosystem, spot wildlife, and engage with interactive exhibits.
Whether you're planning a family outing, school field trip, or solo hike, the NJ Forest Resource Center offers guided programs, trail maps, and seasonal events to enrich every visit with immersive nature experiences that inspire curiosity, conservation, and a deeper appreciation for New Jersey's forests.
Access: 495 Don Connor Blvd., Jackson Township, NJ
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 9 trails ranging from 0.1 mi (0.16 km) to 5.4 mi (8.7 km), totaling 8 mi (12.9 km)
Accessibility: Better than average accessibility for people with disabilities. Call 732-928-2360 for information (TT users call the NJ Relay Services at (800) 852-7899)
Uses: Hiking, fishing, biking, hunting, nature photography, horseback riding and bike trails. ATVs are prohibited.
Hours: Grounds are open dawn to dusk and interpretive center 8:30am to 4pm
Precautions: Wear fluorescent orange during hunting season. No hunting on Sundays.
🌲 NJ Forest Resource Education Center (FREC)
Located in Jackson Township, NJ, its a haven for outdoor exploration, learning, and connection with natureقwelcoming visitors of nearly every age and ability.Its self-guided trails are dotted with informational kiosks that highlight botany, wildlife, and environmental themes within this striking pine barren forest. The paths are wide, evenly graded, clearly blazed, and many are suitable for all-terrain wheelchairs.
One highlight is the 0.5-mile (0.8 km) Sensory Awareness Trail, designed for accessibility and engagement. It features braille kiosks, a braille map, a continuous guide cable, and interactive "talking trees" that share educational audio recordings at the push of a button. Trail booklets for self-guided hikes are available at the interpretive center.
As a trail runner, hiker, botanist, and horticultural therapist, I found the 5.4-mile (8.7 km) Pine Acres Trail to be one of the most enjoyable running routes in the region. Evidence of horseback riders and mountain bikers along the track shows it's a favorite among diverse outdoor enthusiasts.
FREC is managed by the New Jersey Forest Service, and while the Jackson Pathfinders don't maintain the trails directly, they collaborate with Jackson Township on community events and projects. With so many opportunities for hiking, recreation, environmental education, exercise, and nature therapy, each visit offers something new to discover.
