W. G. Jones State Forest
The W. G. Jones State Forest is a unique urban forest. The term “urban forest” may seem like an oxymoron. You find forest out in the countryside, not in urban areas, right? Actually, they’re more common than you might think. The U. S. Forest Service estimates there are more than 141 million acres of urban forests in the U. S.
No doubt Jones State Forest was once in the countryside. However, over time urban sprawl has surrounded it with homes, apartment complexes, and businesses. Not to mention a major 4-lane highway bisecting it. It is about 1,700 in size so not overly large. However, it does play an over-sized role in conservation, research, and education. For me, I like that it’s a nearby oasis to escape the urban environment for a little while.
The Photos
The forest is also one the more significant birding sites in North America. This is because it is home to the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker. I’m not a birder by any means but I do believe in conservation. So, although I went for landscape shots it’s good to know places like this exist.
Most of the forest is easy walking with trails that are wide, maintained, and most importantly, relatively flat.
Jones State Forest has some hidden surprises. For instance, there is beautiful little suspension bridge over a deep gully. It is somewhat hidden away but worth looking for. Here’s a tip: it does sway quite a bit when you cross over so hold on to the cables!
I visited the forest early on a weekday morning fully expecting to have the place to myself. I was surprised to see a number of people already there when I arrived. It wasn’t crowded by any means but it’s testimony how people enjoy the forest.
Naturally, I came across a group of birders. I also saw dogs walking their people and even this trail runner. I didn’t expect to find street photography opportunities in the middle of the forest but since I’ve found them in the middle of the desert, I guess it shouldn’t be too surprising.
One of my favorite things to photograph in wooded areas are ferns. With dappled light they make for great intimate landscapes. The dappled lighting makes for wonderful shading across the fronds. There are also wonderful shadowy areas where you can explore and find more fronds to enjoy.
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