The forested acres of Belleplain include stands of young pine, oak and Atlantic white cedar, reflecting better soil conditions and less damage by fire than found in the Pine Barrens just north of the forest. Belleplain State Forest was established in 1928 by the State of New Jersey for recreation, wildlife management, timber production, and water conservation. In 1933, three camps were set up by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Reforestation Relief Act, supplying labor to the forest for over an eight-year period.
Facilities & Activities:
Interpretive center
Camping
Fishing, trapping, hunting
Interpretive Programs
Picnicking picnic tables, softball field, playground, food concession
Boating/canoeing:
electric motors only, trailer launch on East Creek Pond. Cartop launch, canoe rentals, floating dock on Lake Nummy
Swimming in Lake Nummy, shower facility
Winter sports: ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing
Corson's Inlet State Park
Trails:
Hiking
Nature trails (trail guide available at office)
Horseback riding
Mountain biking
Biking
Physical fitness trail
Camping
Campsites: 169 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities are within walking distance. Trailer dumping station is open March 1 through November 30.
Group campsites: Two group campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, water, and chemical toilets. Each site accommodates up to 50 people. Open year round. No trailers at group sites. No pets allowed.
Picnicking
Belleplain offers 2 Group Picnic Areas for larger groups. Both holds a capacity of 100 people, provides shelter, playfields and playground equipment.
Swimming
Swimming is permitted on the north side of Lake Nummy while lifeguards are on duty. Visitors will find a beach complex containing changing area, restrooms, a first-aid station and a concession offering refreshments, novelties and beach supplies. Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area. Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted. Pets are prohibited on the beach.
Hunting
Parts of Belleplain State Forest are open for hunting.
