Kayaking in South Jersey is a rewarding and exhilarating activity that can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a summer adventure. You’ll be sure to find some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes and wildlife in the country. Imagine paddling along the river and spotting a bald eagle soaring overhead, or a heron fishing on the shore. Maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of a turtle or a beaver as they swim by. Don’t be shy to wave at the friendly people who live along the river – they might have some interesting tales to tell you. Kayaking in South Jersey is not just a hobby – it’s a thrilling escapade!
Camden Water Trail
Collingswood is a small town where love blossoms. It has 13,926 residents and 24.1 gay couples per 1,000 households, making it one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly places in New Jersey. The Philadelphia Inquirer noticed its rainbow pride back in 2004, and two years later, Mayor Jim Maley was ready to tie the knot for civil unions as soon as they became legal. Collingswood is also home to Garden State Equality, a group that fights for marriage equality and other rights. If you’re looking for a place where love is love, look no further.
Kayak Landing & Parking Cooper River S Park Dr
You can launch your own kayak or rent one from the Kayak Landing & Parking Cooper River S Park Dr, located near the Jack Curtis Stadium. You’ll have access to 346.55 acres of beautiful parkland, with trails, playgrounds, picnic areas and more. You can paddle along the river and admire the views of Pennsauken, Cherry Hill, Collingswood and Haddon Township. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find kayaking on the Cooper River a rewarding and relaxing experience.
Haddon Lake Park
This beautiful park covers 73.47 acres of land in Haddon Heights, Audubon and Mount Ephraim. You can paddle along the scenic lake from Station Avenue to 10th Avenue and enjoy the views of nature and wildlife. The park also has trails, playgrounds, picnic areas and more for you to explore. Haddon Lake Park is a kayaker’s paradise, so don’t miss this opportunity to have some fun on the water!
Rancocas Creek
The river is a wonderland of three tributaries: the North, South, and Southwest branches. The North Branch is the star of the show, with a navigable section within the Pine Barrens that you don’t want to miss. It’s the branch we’ll focus on here. You can paddle from Browns Mills to Mount Holly in one epic adventure, but why rush? Take your time and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the river. You can launch at Browns Mills on Route 530 below the bridge and behind Domino’s Pizza. Watch out for some debris from the dam reconstruction at Browns Mills, but don’t let that stop you. The river will reward you with lovely scenery and wildlife as you make your way to New Lisbon and beyond.
Newton Lake
This scenic route takes you through the beautiful towns of Collingswood and Haddon Township, NJ, where you can admire the wildlife, the bridges, and the charming houses along the shore. You’ll paddle for about 4 miles, but you can always turn back sooner if you want. It’s a great activity for beginners and experts alike, and you’ll love the feeling of being close to nature.
Parvin’s State Park
The launch ramp is available from sunrise to sunset year round for a fee. From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, required permits can be purchased at the park office. Canoe rentals are available seasonally near Parvin Lake. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUP) are permitted at Parvin State Park.
Kayaking requires a certain level of skill, preparation, and awareness. Before you go kayaking, you need to get ready for the trip. Here are some of the aspects of kayaking in South Jersey that you should be aware of before you embark on your journey.
- You may face some of the challenges and risks that come with navigating a dynamic and complex waterway, such as currents, rapids, and obstacles. You will need to be alert, agile, and adaptable to overcome them: Sometimes you will have to bend down, paddle vigorously, or even carry your kayak to continue your route. It is a demanding but rewarding physical activity. Learn some basic skills and safety tips. You should know how to paddle, steer, balance, turn, stop, and exit your kayak. You should also consider changes and surprises in the weather conditions, like rainstorms, winds, or sun. You can take some lessons or watch videos online to improve your confidence and competence. Make sure to choose a suitable route and time for your trip. You should consider your skill level, the distance, the difficulty, and the conditions. You can find some information and recommendations online or from local experts.
- Pack some essentials and extras. You need to be ready and equipped for any situation: You should bring sunscreen, a hat, a raincoat, and an extra set of clothes. Get a proper kayak and equipment. You should rent or buy a kayak that fits your size, weight, and preference. You should also get a paddle, a life jacket, a helmet, a whistle, and a dry bag. You can find some options and advice at a local outfitters or online. You should also bring water, snacks, a change of clothes, a first aid kit, a map, a compass, and a phone.
JCC Camps At Medford
The JCC Camps at Medford, an American Camp Association (ACA) accredited and award-winning Southern New Jersey day camp, provides children ages 3-14 with the ultimate summer experience! Take to the skies as they tour you around their incredible campsite in the New Jersey Pinelands.
Mick’s Pine Barren Canoe & Kayak Rental
EASY, AFFORDABLE CANOE & KAYAK RENTALS! Micks rents canoes and kayaks for trips on the rivers of Wharton State Forest in New Jersey. Each rental includes transportation to and from the river, paddles and life vests. They have trails from 2 to 8 hours for one low price. Micks is the closest livery to the Wading and Oswego Rivers, providing fast, courteous, and inexpensive canoe and kayak rental services in the Pinelands.
Ant’s Canoes and Kayaks
Ant’s Canoes and Kayaks is a family owned and operated business. They take pride in providing a safe, sanitary, and exciting experience for each and every one of their guests.