Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in New Jersey covering coastal wetlands, barrier beaches, and salt marshes along the Atlantic shore. The landscape consists of interconnected habitats that create diverse environments for wildlife throughout the year.

This refuge was created in 1984 by combining two earlier protected areas: one established in 1967 and another dating back to 1939. The consolidation brought these separate lands together into one cohesive conservation area.

This refuge serves as a vital habitat for numerous bird species and wildlife that depend on coastal wetlands for survival. Visitors can directly observe the natural patterns of life in this salt marsh environment during their visit.

The area is accessible via an eight-mile driving loop and several walking trails of varying lengths. Early morning visits offer the best chances to observe wildlife in their natural routines.

The refuge protects two natural barrier beaches, Holgate and Little Beach, where rare shorebirds nest under strict access restrictions. These beaches are essential to protecting a threatened species during its breeding season.

Location: Ocean County

Location: Atlantic County

Inception: 1984

Operator: United States Fish and Wildlife Service

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/edwin_b_forsythe

GPS coordinates: 39.60000,-74.31670

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:02