Best Canoeing in New Jersey

Trying to find the best canoeing in New Jersey? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Pennsylvania, Pike County

01 :43 hrs
3.8 mi
3.9999695 ft
I

Surrounded by Delaware State Forest, Pecks Pond offers many canoeing possibilities and wildlife encounters. Numerous amounts of beds of water lilies are along the shorelines. The northern end of the lake is filled with vegetation in the summer, but there is still usually a channel to canoe through. There are multiple large and small islands that dot the lake and are very interesting to watch the wildlife that live on them.

2

New Jersey, Lacey Township

05 :16 hrs
11.9 mi
22.595448 ft
I

Situated just south of the busy suburban area of Tom's River, this small creek provides paddlers an opportunity to get away and enjoy nature. Cedar Creek is slow, winding river that travels through mostly undeveloped, wilderness terrain of the Pines Barrens. The creek presents view hazards or obstacles with the exception of one portage around the dam at Double Trouble. There are also multiple access sites that provide the option of a shorter trip down the river if desired.

3

New Jersey, Princeton Township

03 :03 hrs
6.8 mi
6.392374 ft
I

Carnegie Lake is privately-owned lake that was created for the Princeton University rowing team by damming the Millstone River. While the long and narrow lake is used for the college rowing team, it is also open to the public for boating and fishing. The lake is located in a suburban area but still has tree-lined shores and peaceful waters for birdwatching and enjoying nature. If paddling the water when the rowing teams are practicing, be sure to pay close attention as they move at fast speeds and are harder to maneuver than smaller boats, giving them the right of way.

4

Delaware, Dover

02 :01 hrs
4.5 mi
0.32479572 ft
I

Silver Lake is surrounded by the city of Dover and is a beautiful place to take a break from fast-paced urban life. The area’s wildlife and rich history of the “First State’s” capital city along with the cultural opportunities combine to make Silver Lake a destination for everyone. The lake covers about 167 acres with a maximum depth of nine feet and an average depth of four feet. It is popular for swimming, boating, fishing, and many other recreational opportunities ranging from NASCAR racing to birdwatching nearby.

5

New Jersey, Morris County

03 :30 hrs
7.8 mi
7.942337 ft
I

This is a popular spot for paddling but the reservoir is large enough to accommodate them and you may feel that you have it all to yourself. There is an abundance of birds, fish, and turtles and you will find that around every corner something new spikes your interest. The landscape around the water is that of huge boulders especially on the north end of the reservoir and there is a large diversity of wildlife.

6

Delaware, Kent County

01 :02 hrs
2.3 mi
1.3998504 ft
I

Killen Pond, located in Killen Pond State Park is a charming lake that offers great fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities. Fish include largemouth bass, catfish, carp, perch, crappie, bluegill, and pickerel. Canoes, rowboats, kayaks, and pedal boats are available for rent during the summer. The scenery consists of gorgeous hardwood forest and marsh and great wildlife viewing opportunities.

7

New Jersey, Washington Township

02 :35 hrs
5.8 mi
4.997437 ft
I

The Batsto River is a remote and scenic river that passes through thick forest and woodland terrain of Wharton State Forest. This short run starts at Quaker Bridge and ends at the take-out located at Batsto Lake. The run is a good option for beginner paddlers due to the easy distance and access. The only real hazards on the river are snags and downed trees that may need to be navigated around. There are multiple take-out spots once you reach the lake. Batsto Village is located at the south end of the lake and makes for a fun and interesting place to visit.

8

Pennsylvania, Upper Hanover Township

03 :25 hrs
7.6 mi
3.038086 ft
I

Green Lane Reservoir is a popular canoeing and birding location. The lake sees more than 260 species of birds, including shorebirds, waterfowl, waders, bald eagles and songbirds. There are multiple coves, inlets and fingers along the lake perfect for canoeing. Spring migration from mid-April through early June, would be a great time to visit.

9

New Jersey, Secaucus

01 :47 hrs
4 mi
- ft
I

The Hackensack River Meadowlands is the place to paddle if you are looking for a great birdwatching destination. This area of tidal marshes located off the Hackensack River is home to lots of wildlife and birdlife. The area is unique in that it much of the surrounding area consists of urban and industrial development, but the marshland areas are still very peaceful and scenic. The Hackensack River is very wide and the windy weather can stir up some rough waters so be cautious. There are some channels that lead under the major roadways with posted signs that say "Do Not Enter" so be sure to obey the signs and stay out of restricted areas.

10

New Jersey, Warren County

02 :24 hrs
5.3 mi
2.759552 ft
II

This lake is located in Swartswood State Park and offers camping, picnicking, playgrounds, and swimming. There are homes on the lake but they are set back from the shoreline so they do not detract from the privacy. Fishing is good with walleye and brown trout to catch. You will find an assortment of trees and birding is excellent including an abundance of swans. Hiking is also available.

See more adventures..

Explore complete list