Belleplain State Forest is located in northern Cape May County and eastern Cumberland County, New Jersey. It was established in 1928 and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) set up camps in the forest in 1933. The CCC converted a cranberry bog into Lake Nummy and constructed the original buildings and road system.
The forest is family-friendly and includes recreational facilities for picnicking, boating, camping, fishing, swimming, and over 40 miles of hiking trails. The park charges a fee for overnight camping and there are campsites, a group cabin and other shelters. Properly licensed and leashed pets are permitted in specific pet-friendly campsites that require advance registration. Swimming is available on the north end of Lake Nummy while lifeguards are on duty and there is a beach complex with changing rooms and concessions.
Belleplain State Forest provides excellent birding in spring, early summer and autumn. Many migratory species visit the forest and a variety of birds make their year-round home there.
