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Officials: Wharton State Forest fire 80% contained but still threatening buildings

The fire forced evacuations at the Lower Forge Campground. Several nearby roads and trails are closed.

News 12 Staff

Jun 16, 2025, 10:51 AM

Updated 3 hr ago

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The Mines Spung wildfire inside Wharton State Forest in Shamong Township is around 80% contained but is still threatening some structures, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
Officials say the fire was first reported Friday morning when a private aircraft flying over the area spotted the smoke and flames. Since then, the fire has consumed around 5,750 acres.
Officials say that the fire is currently threatening five structures. The Lower Forge Campground has been evacuated as a precaution.
The Batona Trail is closed between Carranza Road and Quaker Bridge Road.
No injuries have been reported. Officials say the cause of the fire was not immediately known.
Fire officials are also urging residents not to fly drones in the area, as it could interfere with the firefighting efforts.