DeCamp Wildlife Trail, Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

The DeCamp Wildlife Trail offers a diverse walking experience, transitioning from woodlands and freshwater wetland swamps to coastal saltmarsh. The path is generally flat, making it accessible for most skill levels.

Yes, the DeCamp Wildlife Trail is very family-friendly. Its generally flat surface and the initial 1,700 feet featuring interpretive signs and benches make it ideal for children. It offers an engaging way to experience nature without significant difficulty.

Dogs are welcome on the DeCamp Wildlife Trail! However, for the safety of wildlife and other visitors, all dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

A large and convenient parking lot for the DeCamp Wildlife Trail is located at the intersection of Mantoloking Road and Adamston Road in Brick Township, New Jersey. This provides direct access to the trailhead.

The trail is a prime spot for birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations, as the refuge is part of the Atlantic Flyway. You might spot various ducks, geese, wading birds, shorebirds, including clapper rails, willets, and black ducks. The diverse habitats also support other local wildlife.

The first 1,700 feet of the DeCamp Wildlife Trail are particularly accessible, featuring a flat surface and interpretive signs. While the entire 3.4-mile trail is generally flat, conditions beyond the initial section may vary. For specific accessibility concerns, it's advisable to check current trail conditions.

Access to the DeCamp Wildlife Trail within the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is generally free of charge, and no special permits are typically required for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official refuge website for any updates on fees or regulations.

The DeCamp Wildlife Trail is a 3.4-mile out-and-back path. Given its generally flat terrain, most hikers can complete the round trip in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how often they stop for birdwatching or photography.

For optimal wildlife viewing, particularly birdwatching, visiting during the early morning hours or late afternoon/early evening is often best. Birds are typically most active during these times, and the light is also favorable for photography.

While the DeCamp Wildlife Trail itself is a natural area, the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge does operate a Visitor Information Center at its headquarters in Galloway, which is separate from the DeCamp Trail's location in Brick Township. It's recommended to plan accordingly for facilities before visiting the DeCamp Trail.

The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1984, combining earlier refuges, and named after conservationist Congressman Edwin B. Forsythe. The DeCamp Wildlife Trail itself has a history of resilience, having been heavily impacted by Superstorm Sandy and subsequently restored through significant cleanup efforts, highlighting its importance as a protected habitat.