Overview
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most important coastal refuges on the Atlantic Flyway, the major migratory corridor running along the eastern seaboard of North America. Managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the refuge protects roughly 48,000 acres of southern New Jersey coastal habitat, encompassing barrier beaches, salt meadows, freshwater impoundments, and upland fields.
The refuge is divided into two main units — the larger Brigantine Division near Oceanville (Galloway Township, Atlantic County) and the smaller Barnegat Division to the north. The Brigantine Division is by far the more visited and accessible, anchored by its famous 8-mile Wildlife Drive loop.
The refuge is named after Edwin B. Forsythe, a U.S. Congressman from New Jersey who was a leading advocate for coastal conservation before his death in 1984. It was officially redesignated in his honor in 1984.
Beyond its importance to birds — over 300 species have been recorded here — the refuge sits adjacent to the Atlantic City skyline, creating a visually striking contrast between urban development and protected wilderness.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Edwin B. Forsythe is a U.S. federal facility open to the public. For visa requirements to enter the United States, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for current rules applicable to your nationality.
Fees and Passes
The refuge charges a modest per-vehicle fee to access the Wildlife Drive. Holders of the America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass (formerly the National Parks Pass) can enter free of charge. Fee information and hours should be verified on the official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service page for the refuge before your visit, as these can change seasonally.
What to Bring
- Binoculars and a spotting scope are strongly recommended — distances across open marsh can be considerable
- A field guide to eastern birds, or a birding app such as Merlin (free) or eBird
- Sunscreen, hat, and layers; the refuge is extremely exposed to wind and sun
- Insect repellent is essential from late spring through summer (biting insects are significant)
- Water and snacks — there are no food concessions on-site
- Rubber boots or waterproof footwear if you plan to walk trails after rain
Seasons
Migration peaks in spring (shorebirds, warblers, wading birds) and fall (ducks, geese, raptors, and late shorebirds). Summer brings nesting herons, egrets, and osprey. Winter can be surprisingly productive for bald eagles and wintering ducks, though hours and road access may be reduced — verify locally before visiting.
Getting There
By Car
The Brigantine Division headquarters and main entrance are located at 800 Great Creek Road, Oceanville, NJ 08231, off Route 9 in Galloway Township. From the Atlantic City Expressway, take Exit 7 (Pomona/Oceanville) and follow signs. The drive from Philadelphia is roughly 1 hour; from New York City, approximately 2 hours depending on traffic.
By Public Transit
The refuge is not practically accessible by public transit. NJ Transit bus and rail services connect to nearby Atlantic City, but no regular route serves the refuge entrance. Visitors without a car should consider renting a vehicle — verify current rental options in Atlantic City or Galloway.
Nearest Airports
Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is the closest option, approximately 10–12 miles away. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is a larger hub with more flight options, roughly 60 miles west.
Parking
There is a free parking area at the visitor contact station. Vehicles pay the access fee before entering the Wildlife Drive.
Getting Around
Wildlife Drive
The primary way to experience the refuge is the 8-mile one-way loop road, the Wildlife Drive, which passes through salt marsh impoundments, freshwater pools, and open bay views. The road is paved and accessible by standard passenger vehicle. Cyclists and pedestrians are also permitted. Allow 2–3 hours to drive it slowly with stops.
Walking Trails
Several short walking trails branch off from the Wildlife Drive and parking areas, including the Leeds Eco-Trail (a short loop near the visitor center) and the Akers Woodland Trail. Trails are relatively flat and well-marked, though some may be soft or flooded after heavy rain.
Accessibility
The Wildlife Drive is the most accessible feature of the refuge, usable by visitors who cannot walk long distances. Portions of trails may be uneven or muddy. Contact the refuge office directly to confirm current accessibility conditions before visiting.
Things to See & Do
Birdwatching
This is the defining activity at Forsythe. The refuge consistently ranks among the top birding sites in New Jersey and on the entire Atlantic coast. Key species vary by season: snow geese, brant, and diving ducks in winter; black-necked stilts, dunlin, semipalmated sandpipers, and glossy ibis in spring and fall; great blue herons, snowy egrets, ospreys, and seaside sparrows in summer. Peregrine falcons are seen during migration. Check eBird's recent reports for the refuge before visiting to get an accurate picture of what is being seen.
Photography
The wide, open marsh landscape and predictable presence of large wading birds and waterfowl make this a rewarding destination for wildlife photographers. The observation platforms along the Wildlife Drive are ideal spots for telephoto work.
Fishing and Hunting
The refuge permits limited hunting (primarily waterfowl and deer) and fishing in designated areas during specific seasons, subject to both federal and New Jersey state regulations. Permits and current regulations must be confirmed with the refuge office and the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife before participating.
Observation Platforms
Several elevated platforms along the Wildlife Drive provide elevated views across the impoundments. These are good spots to scan for raptors perching on distant snags or large concentrations of shorebirds on mudflats when water levels are low.
Practical Information
Visitor Contact Station
A small visitor contact station near the entrance provides maps, checklists, and refuge information. Staff and volunteers can advise on current wildlife highlights. Verify opening days and hours on the official site before visiting, as staffing may be limited.
Restrooms
Portable or basic restroom facilities are available at the parking area near the visitor contact station. There are no restrooms along the Wildlife Drive loop itself, so plan accordingly.
Cell Coverage
Cell coverage is generally adequate near the entrance but may be inconsistent on more remote sections of the Wildlife Drive. Download offline maps or bird apps before arrival.
Emergency and Medical
In a genuine emergency, call 911. The nearest major hospitals are in Atlantic City and the surrounding area — verify the nearest facility before your trip. The refuge office contact number is listed on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website for this refuge.
Dogs
Leashed pets are permitted on the Wildlife Drive but are not allowed on foot trails within the refuge. Be aware that dogs can disturb nesting and foraging birds, particularly during peak migration.
Safety
Weather and Exposure
The refuge is a highly exposed coastal environment. Thunderstorms can develop rapidly in summer, with no shelter available along the Wildlife Drive. Check forecasts before going and be prepared to exit the loop if severe weather approaches. Heat and sun exposure are significant concerns from May through September.
Insects
Greenhead flies (a large, aggressive biting fly) are a known hazard at the refuge during mid-summer, typically peaking in July. Long sleeves, pants, and strong insect repellent are advisable. Mosquitoes are also present throughout warmer months. Tick awareness is important — check yourself thoroughly after walking any vegetation.
Wildlife
Observe all wildlife from a safe and respectful distance. Do not approach nesting birds or feed any animals. Leaving food unattended may attract opportunistic wildlife.
