swimming lakes in south jerseyswimming lakes in south jersey

There are also several picnic areas throughout the Parvin State Park with tables and charcoal grills. It is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm through Labor Day, while lifeguards are on duty. Five Star Swim School has experienced instructors who use a proven teaching method to help children learn to swim quickly and confidently. With a beach and crystal clear lake, littles can spend the day on the waters edge playing in the sand and dipping their toes in the shallow water. (732) 566-2161, The huge sandy shore makes this a must for swimmersyou can find a roomy spot and relax in the sand after a dip. Swimming is permitted on the north side of the lake between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Lake Atsion Image Source Located deep within the Wharton State Forest, visitors will be able to enjoy the lake for all its sparkling, blue glory. Plus, there's a mini-putt course. Located just a short drive from Jersey shore resort towns like Sea Isle City, Avalon, and Strathmere is Belleplain State Forests beautiful Lake Nummy. It's been deemed "one of the natural wonders of New Jersey." There are also size appropriate areas that are perfect for younger children Papoose Land is for children under 4 feet tall and Cherokee Corner is for people 5 feet under or less. Photo courtesy of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The calm waters of NJ swimming lakes are ideal for small children or anyone who would like an alternative to the busy pace of summer at the Jersey shore.. Decide which one to see first with our list of the best lakes in New Jersey. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Photo courtesy of Wharton State Forest. The lake is located close to some of Princeton's most interesting attractions, so there's not a lot to lose by visiting here for at least an hour. (609) 296-1114, With a name like Lake Nummy, how could you go wrong? Once the vibrantly blue, rippling water comes into view, though, you'll realize the long, sometimes tricky hike was well worth the effort. Off the water, you can go walking, hiking, jogging, fishing, bird watching, and picnicking. Swimming is permitted in Lake Marcia from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and there is a bathhouse and food concessions on site. Picnic areas are located along the lakes shore, and you will find canoes, rowboats and paddle boats available to use at the rental facility.Why I like it: Of all the deep lakes in the Garden State, only a small handful house coldwater fish like trout and salmonand Lake Wawayanda is one of them!More info: Click here to visit the website. New Jerseys first state park is home to beautiful Swartswood Lake, the states third largest freshwater lake. The so-called "pond" is 41 acres and was made by glaciers. Lake Absegami in Bass River State Forest allows swimming when lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Sadly, many people have caught on to this lake's impressively calm and clear waters, which means it can get quite crowded, especially during summer weekends. While you're at it, check out these top-rated waterfalls. Another bonus: the lake boasts a concession stand, volleyball nets, horseshoes, and a mini putt course to help keep everyone entertained. Over the years, Deal Lake has had many names: Lake Uliquecks, Great Pond, and Hogs Swamp Pond, among them. Kids can visit the playground or take a trip out on the water with an adult when renting a kayak or rowboat. If you plan to spend the day, there are facilities, like a bathhouse complex containing restrooms, showers, changing areas, and a concession stand to pick up food and sundries. More Must-See Lakes in the US: Can't get enough of American lakes? Where: Sunrise Lake Beach Club, Lewis Morris Park, Morristown (CLOSED FOR 2020)Fees: Adults $6, $8 weekends/holidays; kids and seniors $5, $7 weekends/holidaysDetails: The Sunrise Lake club, run by the Morris County Park Commission, offers an inflatable obstacle course for swimmers as well as beach volleyball, paddle boats, restrooms, showers and family campout nights. You can also fish from the fully stocked freshwater or try to catch the blue crabs that hang by the crabbing bridge near the beach. Picnic areas overlooking the parking lot feature grills and tables. Swimming is permitted daily while lifeguards are on duty, between the hours of 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. You can even book birthday parties by the lake. What originated as a cranberry bog (picture people wearing giant boots and waders moving slowly through a sea of the bright red berries), Lake Garrison has become a go-to holiday alternative to the Jersey Shore. The Best of NJ. From the summit, you can see the rolling hills and pastoral farmland of three states. Parvin Lake allows swimming between Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The swim area features restrooms, showers, changing areas and a concession stand. Adjacent to the beach are changing stations, restrooms, a first-aid station, and a concession stand. The crystal clear waters of Wawayanda Lake are open for swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day. When the going gets extremely tough in the family caravan, end the outing by getting a table at Shut Up And Eat in Toms River (cash only), a cheerful diner that serves every kind of omelette and pancake conceivable. There is a bathhouse, and concessions are available as well. Underneath pine, cedar and oak trees, enjoy the dedicated swimming area and perhaps a goose sighting while in the water. For more summer fun, check out our NJ Kids Summer Activities Guide. // Swartswood State Park Route 619 Swartswood NJ. They allow swimming through Labor Day while lifeguards are on duty, between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. You can also canoe and kayak on Parvin Lake, and canoe rentals are available. The lake located in Hopewell, Mercer County has Red Cross certified lifeguards on duty during. The lake marks the meeting of multiple biomes and ecosystems, allowing for numerous bird species and marsh types to thrive. Pack a picnic and set it up at one of the picnic tables near the beach (charcoal grills are nearby if you want to cook out). Spring-fed Lake Marcia in High Point State Park is open for swimming daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Bite into an artisanal grilled cheese sandwich at the Melt Factory, a restaurant dedicated to variations on a deli favorite. Next to the beach, visitors can access restrooms, changing areas, showers, a first-aid station, and a kid-friendly (and reasonably priced) concession stand. Hopatcong State Park Lakeside Boulevard Landing NJ. New Jersey offers a variety of options for your family whether you're hoping to swim, fish, paddleboard, or kayak. The Garden State is famous for its beautiful ocean beaches, but weve also got some fabulous swimming lakes in New Jersey! New Jerseys largest lake, Lake Hopatcong offers swimming during the summer months. Verify lifeguard hours before heading out for a day of fun at these New Jersey swimming lakes. Spending time near its calming shores just adds charm to the already alluring small New Jersey town. Note that the lakes' swimming hours are subject to change due to weather and staff changes. Hero (Top) Feature Image: Morris County Park CommissionAdditional Images:NJ Division of Parks and ForestryParvin State Park / Facebook. Amenities at the lake include changing areas, restrooms, playgrounds, and a concession stand. Sunrise Lake has swimming, boating, a sandy beach, and an inflatable obstacle course. There are a couple of furnished cabins to choose from if you're more of a glamping type. Now do you get the name? Hidden in forests, sprawling at the bottom of valleys, and sitting at the side of busy highways, these are New Jersey's most incredible assets. There are two sand volleyball courts and a playground near the beachfront. Also, this lake, which is considered a small amusement park, is closed during the off-season. 6 Places to Hike AND Swim in South Jersey! The best part:Children 4 and under are FREE! When famed businessman and industrialist, Andrew Carnegie, heard the team were lacking an adequate practice venue, he did what any wealthy dignitary would do: he created an entire lake. Over time, residents began to recognize its allure water views, marine life, and nesting birds made its banks even more appealing. Swimming is permitted at Hopatcong State Park during the summer while lifeguards are on duty. Well known for its impressive stretch of beaches, New Jersey is one of the Atlantic Coast's go-to summer vacation destinations, especially for Manhattanites craving an escape. Visitors can also rent pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks. With New York City only 50 miles away, this was a perfect spot for a rejuvenating weekend away. Swim In One Of These Great New Jersey Lakes! Copyright 2014-2023 NJ Mom LLC. Located in the heart of the New Jersey Pine Barrens, beautiful Atsion Lake is a great place to cool off when the temperatures start to rise. We will continue to update this article throughout the summer if/when more places open back up. Written by Shandley McMurray Updated May 3, 2023. Play to your hearts content, then dry off in historic Morristown, a city quite relevant during the colonial days of New Jersey: Macculloch Hall Historical Museum features two-hundred-year-old furniture used by the countrys first presidents. Lifeguards present Memorial Day to Labor Day. Even then, swimming is permitted only when lifeguards are on duty (between 10am and 5:30pm during the summer). Maybe youd like a different swimming option? Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442, Although no swimming is allowed, you can spend the day on a kayak, canoe, pedal board, and stand-up paddleboard at the Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve. When our campers aren't busy swimming and splashing in our swimming lake or pools, bouncing high on our jumping pillows, or finding hidden treasures while gem mining, they can relax at their premium New Jersey campsites and cabins around a crackling fire. Swimmers, boaters, and fishermen enjoy the blue waters of Round Valley Reservoir. Photo courtesy of Morris County. Insider's Tip: Don't miss out on the area's fun boat rentals. 715 Route 206, Shamong, NJ 08088 This Morris County NJ swimming lake features an inflatable obstacle course, the Zoom Flume, and special Tiny Tot Tuesdays (July only) designed especially for kids 4 and under. Pitch a tent in the campsite that hugs the area's other watery wonder, Sawmill Lake. Egg Harbor City Lake provides a summer vacation your kids won't forget. No wonder it's so peaceful. RELATED: Best Family Campgrounds in New Jersey, Cool off in Lake Marcia after a hike in High Point State Park. During the summer months, the clear waters of beautiful Lake Wawayanda, part of Wawayanda State Park, draw folks from all over the state. From swimming to canoeing to golfing to fishing, there's a slew of activities to keep guests of all ages entertained. (973) 267-4351, Bring your hiking shoesthis lake is located in Cheesequake Park, where there are lots of trails and wood bridges when youre not on the beach by the lake. Become part of the Best of NJ community and get new restaurant updates, entertainment picks, and upcoming event details delivered straight to your inbox weekly! You'll find a grassy beach with picnic areas and restrooms here, along with opportunities for hiking. Playgrounds, a picnic area, bathrooms, and a concession stand are located on either side of the beach. Other activities on offer include swimming, kayaking, and exploring miles of hiking trails. Check the NJ Department of Environmental Protection's daily swim schedule for updates. The north shore of the lake has a picnic area with grills. Hospitality Creek Campground. Hospitality Creek Campground is more than just a lake. View interactive exhibits, multi-media presentations, and educational activitiesand good to know, its also an excellent place for a birthday party. The lake is open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day; however, aside from holidays, it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. New Jersey is known forits outstanding beaches, but it also has some of the best swimming lakes in the Northeast. Swimming is permitted in Parvin Lake daily during the hours of 10:00 am and 6:00 pm, when lifeguards are on duty. 4 guests 1 bedroom, Condo Picnic areas are nearby and include tables, charcoal grills, and restroom facilities. It is a short trip from Philly; about 15- to 20-minute drive from Center City, and it's open seven days a week. Morse worked on the first telegraph. Ok, its not a lake but we just couldnt leave out this beautiful swimming area on the banks of the Delaware River! Besides casually swimming in Hooks Creek Lake and patronizing its snack bar, visitors enjoy trying their luck at the Crabbing Bridge near the parking lot and kayaking around the marsh (youll have to bring your own equipment). 1. Book reservations online. This post, originally published in 2014, is updated annually. Used several times in American history as a military encampment, this idyllic state park in a farming area is a south Jersey mainstay during the summer. Specifically, the sandy part where swimming is allowed goes by Parvin Grove; nearby; one can rent canoes or buy refreshments at the restrooom-and-first-aid facility. Original Stories, Local Events, Top Business Directories. Your information will *never* be shared or sold to a 3rd party. . Two of these lakes permit swimming, while the third allows fishing. Note that the lakes' swimming hours are subject to change due to weather and staff changes. For those in search of more watery beauty, there are multiple captivating cascades (like Pinchot Falls and Hackers Falls) that lie a short drive away. Located in the Round Valley Recreation Area, there are a ton of non-swimming activities on offer from volleyball courts to soft, sandcastle-worthy sand to exciting playgrounds. When parks reach capacity, entry is closed. New Jersey may be known for the shore, but were letting you in on a little secretthere are a bunch of pristine swimming lakes in NJ that are just as fun and family-friendly as the ocean. Whats more, they offer lots of ways to spend a family day on the water, whether jumping from inflatables, spending the hours in a canoe, dropping in a fishing line, or renting a motorboat for a sunset cruise. |. This interstate lake stretches for just over seven miles, from New Jersey's West Milford through New York's Orange County, with half of the lake lying in each state. Oxford lake is open to the public for a small entrance fee, which helps cover upkeep and paying the lifeguards. Lake Hopatcong Source: flickr Lake Hopatcong With about four square miles of lake surface, this is the largest freshwater body in the state of New Jersey. Nestled in south Jerseys Belleplain State Forest is a former cranberry bog-turned-hotspot for camping, boating, fishing for largemouth bass and swimming on the north side of the lake (just right off of Meisle Road). The best place for a vista can be had at the High Point Monument, which stands 1,803 feet above sea level. 1220 Stanton-Lebanon Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833 For adults only, theres a beer garden and full bar on the premises, but please remember that intoxication and swimming do not mix! 155 Tomahawk Trail, Sparta, NJ 07871 Looking for more beaches to enjoy? With an Olympic-size swimming pool, fishing, playgrounds, boat rentals and so much more, the kids can enjoy activity after activity as parents relax in the shade. Scuba diving is allowed depending on the water conditions, though you must be certified, and the park also offers fishing, boating, hunting, camping, and multiple trails for hiking.Why I like it: Excellent water clarity and a rich variety of aquatic life make Round Valley Reservoir a top destination for freshwater snorkeling and scuba diving.More info: Click here to visit the website. BYOF (bring your own food) and hunker down for the day or, if you don't fancy carting your nosh with you, buy a hotdog from the concession stand. (973) 398-7010, Located within High Point State Park (and part of the Appalachian trail), this location is perfect for new summer memories with the kids. First, Carnegie bought the land, then he dammed the Millstone River. (973) 875-4800, Pompton Lakes has two recreational lakes and three rivers, all with public access, allowing for shoreline fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Keep in mind, all locations on the list advise visitors to be safe during COVID-19. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Old Mine Road Hardwick NJ. In her spare time, you can find her wandering around quaint NJ towns, oil painting, trying her hand at baking complicated desserts, and hiking Sandy Hook trails. Visitors will find a beach complex containing changing area, restrooms, showers, a first-aid station and a concession building offering refreshments, novelties and beach supplies. Quarry Swim Club Quarry Park Swim Club is a natural 55-feet-deep lake for swimmers only. where can you go swimming in a lake in nj, Things To Do In New Jersey This Weekend October 12-14 2018. New Jersey is known for its sandy shores, so tack on a visit to one of the state's top beaches if you're staying put for a couple of days. Top Swimming Holes & Spots To Cool Off in New Jersey By: Abbey Dufoe Updated on January 29, 2023 It's almost sweet summertime, and you know what that means " swimming! Swimming Schedule. With an inflatable obstacle course (for ages 7 and older), Sunrise Lake Beach Club is one of our favorite summer destinations. Wait !!! Tomahawk Lake offers everything a family could ask for during the hot summer months. Insider's Tip: The sunset views are fantastic, so plan to stay late. Compare top rental sites at once to get the best deal on your next trip. Picnic tables and restrooms are located on the premises. Lake Absegami, a 67-acre lake created in the 1930s, is the center of the forest's recreational facilities. 2 bedrooms, House 6 guests Sunrise Lake, part of Lewis Morris County Park, is a recreational mecca that includes an inflatable water obstacle course, horseshoe pits, mountain bike trails and a three-acre spot for fishing trout and bass. There are two sand volleyball courts and a playground near the beachfront. The NJ State Parks Facebook page regularly updates which parks have reached capacity, so be sure and check there before heading out. Most of these lakes are on the grounds of majestic state parks that offer other recreation opportunities, like hiking trails. What used to be an area rich in quiet beauty now buzzes with the sound of non-stop jet skis and children screaming with joy during the summer months. Lake Marcia is one of the main attractions found in High Point State Park in Sussex, and lifeguards are on duty here from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visitors from within NJ will be charged $5 per car on the weekdays and $10 on weekends per vehicle, with out-of-state guests paying double for either fee. You're not alone. Swimming is permitted while lifeguards are on duty in the day-use area only. Photo courtesy of Morris County. The swim area features restrooms, showers, changing areas and a concession stand. We guarantee you won't hear the kids whine, "I'm bored!". These days, all sorts of outdoor enthusiasts make use of this 63-acre reservoir; whether its a splash in the lake, taking in the vivid sunset or angling for bass, trout, bullhead or even eel. Only electric motors are allowed, which helps keep down the noise and water pollution. They offer an affordable alternative to the Jersey Shore or amusement parks for lower- and middle-income families. This is a great opportunity for little ones to play and explore without large crowds and older kids. There are also barbecue grills, a playground, ball fields, trails, nature crafts, and concession stands near the lake. New Jersey has plenty of lakes and reservoirs that are open to the public, most charging per car rather than per person. Picnic areas with grills, changing areas, restrooms, showers, first aid, and concession stands are available, but there is no grilling along the beach. The park is also home to a dog park, playgrounds, and baseball diamonds, making it easy for a family to stay occupied all day. Located in Cheesequake State Park, this palatably sized beauty offers swimming from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day while lifeguards are on duty. On select weekday afternoons, you can enjoy a private Wibit rental for up to 20 kids and 20 adults for $275. Seasonal and daily passes are available. Photo courtesy of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. 1 bedroom, House Sign up for the best activities, events + exclusive offers from our partners. She especially loves being close to her soon-to-be husbands large Irish family, where the 30+ first cousins are now starting families of their own- and cant help but spend all her time with all of their babies. Bass River State Forest - Closed . Day use or admission fees may apply. The lake has a changing area, restrooms, first aid, and concessions. Hoping to bring your favorite four-legged family member along? The snack stand is also open for takeout purchases. Egg Harbor City Lake and township's unique name is attributed to Cornelius Jacobsen Meh, a Dutch explorer who came upon this place in the early 1600s. And if you dont have any equipment, no worriesRamsey Outdoor has an onsite spot to rent boats and boards A trail called "Patriots Path" leads to a stunning waterfall that once powered the Speedwell Ironworks. Immediate access to your member benefits. // ]]> Cheesequake State Park Gordon Road Matawan NJ. 1. If youre neither hungry nor squeamish, visit the Bugseum at Insectropolis (also in Toms River) and revel in creepy crawlies of all shapes and sizes: the one-of-a-kind museum celebrates caterpillars, aquatic insects and common bees in an air-conditioned facility. There aren't many bells and whistles here, but the whole family can enjoy a day spent swimming, sandcastle building, and frolicking lakeside without having to drive to the Jersey Shore. 4 bedrooms, Cottage An idyllic place to spend a day, White Lake will tick all the boxes for any outdoor enthusiast. A 50-minute drive from Center City brings you to Atsion Lake in Wharton State Forest, where you can swim during the summers while lifeguards are on duty. Cheesequake State Park also has bathrooms, first aid (bring bug spray) and a park center outlining the areas ecological and human history. Swimming is open as of July 3, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm while lifeguards are on duty. Located in Ringwood State Park, this is one of the most scenic lake in New Jersey, and you could easily spend a day enjoying the views. 1304 Sloatsburg Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456 Not far from the campsite, parking lot, concession stand and restrooms is the famous Appalachian Trail; even at a fraction of its 2,200 mile length, this passage takes you along an exciting part of the parks ridge. The forest is only an hour from Atlantic City and the southernmost part of the Jersey Shore, taking you through miles of marshland on long highway road. Where: Hooks Creek Lake, Cheesequake State Park, Old BridgeFees: $5 weekdays, $10 weekends/holidaysDetails: The Cheesequake State Park, bridging North and South Jersey, offers a little of everything: saltwater and freshwater areas, fields, a swamp and the Pine Barrens. LEARN MORE. See, there are perks to attending an Ivy League College! This spectacular spring-fed lake lies within the 394-acre White Lake Preserve in the Great Limestone Valley. Canoes, rowboats, and paddle boats can also be rented. In addition, picnic tables spaced six feet apart will be available for use; though they encourage bringing your own table cloth. Lifeguards on duty Memorial Day to Labor Day. You'll also have to pay to use the grill and picnic table. Days and hours of operation vary based on location! Bellmawr Lake, a two-acre, man-made, swimming hole off Creek Road, turns 60 this summer. The lake offers a modest swimming area and a nice beach, both spotless and welcoming. RELATED:Best NJ Shore Beaches from Sandy Hook to Cape May, Spend the day on beautifulAtsion Lake. Once you witness the area's quiet beauty, you'll understand the need for accommodation. The blue waters of Round Valley Reservoir offers swimmers a cool, refreshing respite from the heat throughout the summer months. Sign up for our FREE newsletters to get posts like this delivered to your inbox. Burlington County Lake Absegami 762 Stage Rd Tuckerton, NJ 08087 Weekdays: Residents: $5.00 Non-Residents: $10.00 Weekends/Holidays: Residents: $10.00 Non-Residents: $20.00 A low-key place to cool off in a town not far from the coast, sparkling-blue Horicon Lake was created in the 1940s by damming part of Jerseys Toms River. In addition to its clean, sandy beach, the area has a recreation area and picnic areas complete with outdoor grills. Swimming in the glacial lake, surrounded by the Kittatinny Mountains, is welcome from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm through Labor Day while lifeguards are on duty. While traversing one of Parvins many hiking trails, observant visitors might catch a glimpse of the threatened barred owl or a bald eagle in the pine trees. Need more ideas for summer fun? Another popular vacation spot during the late 1800s, this private 550-acre lake is owned by the Normanoch Association. Swimming is permitted in Hooks Creek Lake from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend while lifeguards are on duty, and theres a beach complex where you can change and fuel up on snacks after a swim.