Penn State Forest

Penn State Forest is a state forest covering over 3,300 acres of woodland within the Pine Barrens in New Jersey. The property contains Lake Oswego and a network of unpaved roads that wind through the natural landscape.

The state of New Jersey acquired the original parcel as Penn Reserve in 1910, marking the beginning of its protection as public land. This acquisition was part of the early conservation movement in the region.

The forest contained one of New Jersey's few African-American Civilian Conservation Corps camps, established in 1933 during the Great Depression period.

Lake Oswego features a boat launch and picnic areas situated at its southern end for visitor use. The unpaved road network allows access for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking activities throughout the forest.

The Pine Barren Plains section contains pine trees that reach only about 4 feet in height due to the specialized soil and environmental conditions of the area. This stunted growth pattern is a distinctive feature shaped by the region's unique ecology.

Location: New Jersey

Inception: 1910

Website: https://state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/penn.html

GPS coordinates: 39.74401,-74.45987

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46