Perhaps it's slightly off topic in that wildlife is not it's prime attribute but the NJ Pine Barrens are high on my list of pleasant places to paddle. The area consists of many small streams, mostly spring fed from an underground aquifer. Many of them twist and wind creating a very intimate feel. They are centrally located for anyone in the northeast and are paddleable most of the year. Beaver dams are common and generally runnable. What could be more fun? Most people use run a shuttle, paddling downstream only. I generally enjoy the challenge of reading the currents and working my way upstream and then back. The area is best suited to maneuverable, solo canoes, but is commonly run in rec kayaks. The local outfitters shuttle tandem Grummans all day long. Mid summer the area is HEAVILY used. I generally paddle late fall, early winter or early spring and usually don't see any other boats on the water.
Marc Ornstein
Dogpaddle Canoe Works
Custom Paddles and Cedar Strip Canoes