April 14, 2025
Looking to dip your paddle in some South Jersey waters? You're in for a treat!
South Jersey has some seriously awesome spots you need to check out. It's packed with hidden waterways, serene lakes, and gorgeous rivers just waiting for you to explore.
In this post, we will show you some of the absolute best kayaking spots South Jersey has to offer.
We think Wharton State Forest is the BEST place to go kayaking in South Jersey.
This massive state forest offers not one but four incredible rivers to explore!
The Mullica, Batsto, Wading and Oswego rivers - take your pick!
The wildlife, the history, the twists and turns among the Pines. What’s not to love?
All of these rivers are super accessible with multiple drop-in locations.
At Jersey Devil Adventures we offer drop-off/pick-up services, so you don't have to worry about transportation!
Also Check Out Our: Mullica Kayak River Trips
The Great Egg Harbor River is South Jersey kayaking at its finest.
This river flows through Atlantic County and offers a mix of wide-open sections and narrow passages. It's got that classic Pine Barrens charm but with its own unique character.
It’s known for its flat, slow-moving water, which makes it ideal for beginners. But don’t let that fool you—it’s still plenty of fun! You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, even though the river is relatively close to suburban neighborhoods.
The surrounding landscape is super scenic, with lush greenery and thick trees lining the water. You’ll see wildlife, like eagles and ospreys, soaring above you.
The whole vibe here is pretty relaxing, making it one of those spots where you can totally forget about everything else for a while.
Maurice River is definitely worth a spot on the list.
This river winds through Cumberland County before emptying into Delaware Bay. The diversity of landscapes you'll see is incredible. One minute you're surrounded by dense forest, and the next you're paddling through wide marshlands.
The Maurice River is a great way to see the Pine Barrens from a different angle. And the river is big, wide, and peaceful, with plenty of nooks and crannies to discover.
It’s one of those places where you can just get lost in nature and feel like you’re the only one out there.
While it’s a bit more open than some other spots, it still has that laid-back vibe, and the water is calm enough to paddle without feeling stressed.
You’ll also see tons of birds, and if you’re into fishing, this river is great for that too!
Tuckahoe River is a quiet, scenic river that’s perfect for a peaceful kayaking experience.
The river is a bit narrower than some of the others on this list, which gives you a more intimate connection with the surroundings. As you glide along, you’ll pass by wetlands, trees, and maybe even some herons standing still in the shallow water.
It’s calm and easy to paddle, so if you’re looking to just kick back and enjoy nature, this is the spot.
The river also has a few little twists and turns which makes it super fun to navigate. Plus, there are plenty of places to dock and stretch your legs if you need a breather.
Oh and make sure to bring your camera because the photo ops are endless!
It's one of those places that feels super private, so you can really unwind and enjoy the peace.
Also Read: How Much To Rent A Kayak In New Jersey?
Need a break from rivers? Hammonton Lake is your answer.
This charming 50-acre lake offers a completely different kayaking experience. The calm waters are perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a relaxed day out. It's also great for families with kids who are just getting started with paddling.
The lake is also state-stocked with trout, making it a local hotspot for people who love to fish!The lake is surrounded by a beautiful park with picnic areas, making it easy to plan a full day outing. Pack a lunch, paddle around the lake, and then relax on shore.
The town of Hammonton is just minutes away if you need supplies or want to grab a bite afterward.
That said, the summer weekends here can get busy, so I recommend early morning or weekday visits for the most peaceful experience.
Check out our hourly kayak, fishing kayak, and canoe rental service that we provide on Hammonton Lake. Great for families, friends, fishermen, or solo adventurers—no experience needed, just show up and relax at your own pace!
Also Check Out Our: Hammonton Lake Boat Rentals
Urban kayaking? Yes, please! Cooper River Park is a 346-acre park that’s right by Camden.
It’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick escape without driving too far.
The water’s calm, and you’ll get a nice mix of city views and nature vibes as you paddle along. You can get a great view of the Camden skyline, while also passing through peaceful green areas along the river.
If you’re not into long paddles, this is perfect for a short and easy outing. It’s a great place for families, so if you want to bring the kids along for a fun day on the water, this is a great option.
Plus, you’ll probably find plenty of other kayakers out there enjoying the river, so it’s a great spot to meet other people.
Parvin State Park is another perfect spot for kayaking in South Jersey.
This 120-acre lake sits in a gorgeous state park surrounded by forests of pine, maple, and sweetgum trees.
The water is calm and still, perfect for a relaxed, easygoing experience. It’s the kind of place where you can paddle for hours without feeling like you have to rush.
Also Read: Places To Kayak And Camp In New Jersey
The whole park has this quiet, secluded vibe, and there’s something special about paddling around the lake with the trees reflecting off the water. You might even see some wildlife, like deer or turtles, popping up on the shore.
Plus, if you’re into hiking, the park has some great trails, so you can make a whole day out of it.
This is the place to go if you just want to get away and unwind for a bit.
Sunset Lake in Bridgeton lives up to its name. It offers some of the most spectacular sunset views you'll find while kayaking in South Jersey.
It's one of those places that’s just perfect for an evening paddle!
The lake is super calm, and the whole area has this serene, laid-back vibe. Its surrounded by a historic park with beautiful old trees and charming bridges.
It’s not huge, but it’s big enough to paddle around and find a quiet spot. There’s something magical about being on the water at sunset, with the colors of the sky reflecting on the lake.
This lake is popular with anglers, so you might share the water with a few fishing boats. That said, it never feels overcrowded.
If you want to go big, the Delaware River and Bay offer a whole new kayaking experience.
This one’s for the more adventurous kayakers. The river and bay are much wider and can get a little rougher, which makes it a bit more challenging.
But the views? Totally worth it.
You’ll get to paddle alongside bridges, lighthouses, and even small islands!
The water can be unpredictable at times, but there are plenty of calm areas to explore too. You might even get the chance to paddle through the bay and take in the salty air.
The Delaware River is perfect for those looking for a bit more of a challenge, and if you love being out on the open water, you’ll have an absolute blast here.
South Jersey is seriously packed with awesome kayaking spots.
Whether you're after a peaceful paddle through the Mullica River or a more adventurous day on the Delaware River, you’ve got options. These nine spots are all unique in their own way, so you’ll never get bored.
Grab your kayak, hit the water, and enjoy the beauty South Jersey has to offer. Happy paddling!
