TranslateOverview
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is a federally managed wildlife refuge located primarily in Atlantic County, New Jersey, near the city of Brigantine and the resort town of Manahawkin. Despite a common point of confusion, there is no place called 'Iceland' in association with this refuge — the refuge sits along the New Jersey coast of the United States, not in any location named Iceland. This guide covers the refuge as it exists: a significant stop along the Atlantic Flyway and one of the most visited wildlife refuges in the northeastern United States.
The refuge encompasses roughly 48,000 acres of coastal habitat, including salt marshes, tidal bays, freshwater impoundments, and upland fields. It was named after Edwin B. Forsythe, a New Jersey congressman and conservationist who championed environmental protection legislation during his tenure in Congress. The refuge was established in part to provide protected habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife along this heavily developed stretch of the Atlantic coast.
The centerpiece of the refuge for most visitors is the Brigantine Division, which features an 8-mile self-guided wildlife drive, walking trails, and observation platforms overlooking impoundments. Birders from across the region and beyond make regular pilgrimages here, particularly during spring and fall migration periods when the diversity and volume of bird species can be exceptional.
Before You Go
The refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Before visiting, check the official refuge website (fws.gov — search for Edwin B. Forsythe NWR) for current conditions, seasonal closures, and any entrance fee information, as these details can change.
What to bring:
- Binoculars and a spotting scope are strongly recommended — the impoundments are expansive and wildlife can be distant
- A regional bird field guide or a birding app (such as Merlin or eBird) will enhance your visit significantly
- Insect repellent is essential in warmer months; salt marsh mosquitoes and greenhead flies can be intense from late June through August
- Sun protection — the wildlife drive and observation platforms offer little shade
- Water and snacks, as there are no food vendors on site
Seasonal considerations:
- Spring: shorebird and waterfowl migration, nesting begins for many species
- Summer: heat, biting insects, nesting activity; less dramatic migration but resident species present
- Fall: peak migration for raptors and shorebirds; snow geese and brant often arrive in large numbers
- Winter: waterfowl remain, and short-eared owls and rough-legged hawks are possible; dress warmly and check road conditions
Getting There
The refuge's Brigantine Division headquarters is located off Great Creek Road in Oceanville, New Jersey, near Brigantine and Atlantic City. It is most easily reached by personal vehicle.
By car: From the Garden State Parkway, take Exit 48 toward Oceanville/Brigantine. Follow local signage toward the refuge. GPS directions to 'Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge' or the street address on Great Creek Road in Oceanville are reliable.
By public transportation: The refuge is not practically accessible by public transit. There is no scheduled bus or rail service that stops at or near the wildlife drive. Visitors without a vehicle should consider arranging a rideshare drop-off, though note that rideshare availability in this rural area may be limited.
Nearest airport: Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is the closest commercial airport, located a short drive away. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is also a reasonable option for travelers flying into the region.
Getting Around
The primary way to experience the refuge is by driving or cycling the 8-mile one-way wildlife drive, which loops around the freshwater and saltwater impoundments. The gravel road is generally passable for standard passenger vehicles, though conditions can vary — check the refuge website for closures due to flooding or maintenance.
Two short walking trails branch off from the wildlife drive: the Leeds Eco-Trail and the Akers Woodland Trail. Both are relatively flat and manageable for most fitness levels. Observation towers along the drive provide elevated views over the impoundments.
Bicycles are permitted on the wildlife drive and can be an excellent way to move slowly and quietly through the habitat. The refuge does not offer bicycle rentals on site. Pets are allowed in the refuge but must remain on a leash at all times.
Things to See & Do
Wildlife Watching and Birding
The refuge is one of the premier birding destinations in New Jersey and the broader Mid-Atlantic region. The eBird database consistently records impressive species totals here, and the site is an official stop on the Cape May–to–Sandy Hook birding corridor. Snow geese, Canada geese, brant, numerous duck species, herons, egrets, glossy ibis, ospreys, peregrine falcons, and various shorebirds are among the regularly observed species depending on season.
Photography
The open impoundments and low-angle coastal light make this an excellent location for wildlife and landscape photography. Early morning visits typically offer the best light and the most active wildlife.
Hunting and Fishing
Parts of the refuge are open to regulated hunting and fishing in accordance with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service rules. Specific seasons, permitted areas, and licensing requirements are governed by federal and New Jersey state regulations — verify current rules on the official refuge site and through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife before planning a hunting or fishing trip.
Environmental Education
The refuge occasionally hosts ranger-led programs and educational events. Check the official site or contact the refuge visitor center for scheduled programming.
Practical Information
Entrance fees: An entrance fee applies to the wildlife drive. Holders of federal America the Beautiful passes (National Parks Pass, Senior Pass, etc.) are admitted free. Verify current fee amounts on the official refuge website before your visit.
Visitor center: A small visitor center is located at the refuge headquarters. Hours are limited and may vary seasonally — confirm before making a special trip.
Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available near the refuge entrance. There are no facilities along the wildlife drive itself.
Cell service: Coverage can be patchy within the refuge. Download offline maps and any birding apps before arriving.
Emergency contacts: In an emergency, dial 911. The nearest hospitals are in the Atlantic City area. For refuge-specific concerns, contact information is listed on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service refuge page.
Safety
The refuge presents few unusual safety risks beyond standard outdoor considerations for a coastal New Jersey environment.
- Insects: Greenhead flies and mosquitoes can be severe in summer, particularly in and around salt marshes. Long sleeves and effective insect repellent are strongly advisable from late June through August.
- Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly. Thunderstorms are common in summer afternoons. Check forecasts before your visit and seek shelter if conditions deteriorate.
- Sun and heat: The wildlife drive is largely exposed. Heat and UV exposure can be significant in summer months — hydrate and use sunscreen.
- Wildlife: Observe all wildlife from a respectful distance. Do not feed any animals. Ticks are present in grassy and wooded areas; check thoroughly after your visit and wear tick-repellent clothing or apply permethrin to clothing if desired.
- Flooding: Low-lying areas of the refuge, including portions of the wildlife drive, can flood during storms or high tides. Check conditions before visiting, especially after significant rainfall or coastal weather events.
