Microsoft PowerPoint - 100 Page Rancocas Creek Water Trail Guide

Paddle 

Down 

100 Page Paddling Guide to 

NJ’s Rancocas Creek Water Trail 

A Paddlers Downloadable Flip- 

Guide to the Rancocas 

Creek Water Trail: Way- 

Stops, Maritime Heritage, Natural 

History, Landings, Launches, Marinas, Mileage and More 

Egret, Timbuctoo 

Guide Prepared By: John Anderson 

Director Rancocas Pathways 

Rancocas Creek 

400 Years of Maritime 

Heritage 

R ancocas Pathways 

www.rcnwt.com 

Exploring Historic Pathways, Discovering New Understandings

Read this Before Paddling 

Disclaimer 

Paddling on the non-t 

idal, placid Rancocas Creek can become a dangerous activity. Dangers range from abrupt seasonal weather changes, 

rapid rise and fall of creek water levels, 

unimproved and rustic landings and launches, sun, cold, seasonal ice, low waters, snags and strainers, mud banks, dams, portages, and other natural and man- made objects. 

Paddling on the tidal sections of the Rancocas Creek increases risks of paddling. Always consult a tide- c hart before paddling. 

On tidal waters stay alert for others. The Rancocas Creek 

is 

a destination for jet-s 

kis and motorized boats, folks hunting, trapping, and fishing. Water temperatures on the Creek impact 

your safety and having a fun paddle. Rescue from the 

local 

Emergency Squads will have to locate you before evacuating safely. Always asses the paddling segment your paddling, prev ailing weather conditions and your own skill levels. 

This 

guide is by no means an instruction manual: it is a way to introduce you to locations along the Rancocas Creek Water Tra 

il 

(RCWT) and what you can expect to encounter, where 

landings are found and conditions of those landings, where amenities are located, how to portage around dams, and what points o f heritage one is paddling through. Both the tidal 

and the non-t 

idal sections of the RCWT brings paddlers into variable, changing conditions. Descriptions may not look like the photos 

and maps. Different water levels change one’s 

views 

along the RCWT. You paddle at your own discretion. You use your own judgements to make decisions when paddling the RCWT. While the non- 

tidal sections of the RCWT are 

ideal 

for beginning paddlers, the tidal reaches risks make the RCNWT suited for intermediate and expert paddlers. Guidebooks 

such as this may be wrong at a specific date and time. 

B ase your paddling actions on “What If”. What if something goes wrong, what can I do to be safe? Always wear a life jacket 

( PFD). Never paddle alone. Always leave and follow a 

paddle plan. Make sure to inspect paddling gear beforehand. As you gain experience you gain a level of comfort and underst 

anding of your paddling skills. Experience comes from 

paddling and discussing your paddling plans w others: either in person or vis social media. This guidebook and social media platforms 

cannot take the place of experience. 

The author of the guidebook assumes no responsibility and can in no way be held responsible or liable for any accident, injuri 

es, 

damages caused directly or indirectly from information 

i n this guide book. The author cannot be held responsible if paddlers do not obey basic, fundamental safe paddling practices. 

The author is not responsible if paddlers ignore safety 

warnings along the RCWT, and a failure to obey posted rules and regulations found along the RCWT, accessing private property a long the RCWT is not welcomed by private landowners. 

Respect 

access. There are many good ways to learn about paddle sports. Locally the Outdoor Club of South Jersey and the Phil 

adelphia Canoe Club provide ways to enhance your 

paddling skills. Check out the American Canoe Association web site for additional information on paddle sports. w ww.americancanoe.or g for courses and classes in safe paddling. 

Contact 

Rancocas Pathways for personal guided tours and paddling instructions. Ultimately you are fully responsible for padd 

ling safe. Remember it doesn’t count until your back 

home, safe and sound after being out paddling. 


www.rcnwt.com 


Rancocas Creek Watershed Geographic Regions

Organization of the 

100 Page Paddling Guide of the Rancocas 

Creek 

This 

guide covers the Rancocas Creek, from the Delaware River Estuary and tides to the placid Pine Barrens headwaters. Landin 

gs 

and launches are used 

both to describe a formal location and an informal location that is commonly used for kayaks and canoes. 

While 

the Guide addresses kayak paddling, canoes and SUP’s also traverse the Rancocas Water Trail. 

and jet- 

skis. 

On tidal reaches expect multi- 

use motor vessels 

Landings 

are named based on discussions and records from along the Creek. These names are subject to change. The degree of 

paddling 

difficulty is 

subjective 

but generally the non-tidal 

sections of the Rancocas welcomes novice paddlers and the tide-w 

aters intermediate paddlers 

and above. 

T he 100 Page Guide to the Rancocas Creek is organized into 2 main parts. The first part covers location, tidal issues, safet 

y, 

ethics, suggested readings 

and more. The second part carves out individual maps of the 360 square mile Rancocas Creek Watershed. These can be viewed on 

line 

and one a cell 

phone. Issues at landings and paddling sections subject to change. 

The Rancocas is a vibrant, dynamic multi- use waterway. 

Housekeeping Issue for Paddlers: 

Support Local Commerce. Leave No Trace. 

Act as Stewards 

of the Rancocas Creek. 

I t is hoped that readers forward suggestions and comments to the editor of the 100 Page Paddling Guide of the Rancocas Creek. 

Thank-you 

John Anderson 

Mailing 

Address: 16 Broad Street-Mt. 

Holly-NJ-08060 

Email: 

ingvarja@verizon.net 

Kayak and Canoe Liveries 

Clarks 

Canoe-Pemberton 

Rancocas 

Pathways-Westampto 

n 

Pinelands 

Adventures-Atsion 


www.rcnwt.com 


Rancocas Creek Water Trail 

Year 

Round Multi-Use Access 

N Branch 

M t. Holly – Oxbow 

S Branch 

SW Branch 

Monroe Street Park 

SW Branch-Medford-Kirby's 

Mill 

S Branch 

Rancocas State Park 

Headwaters 

N Branch 

Bass Alive Fishing Tournament 

Winter 

Bass-Mirror 

Lake 

Long Bridge County Park 

Hainesport 

M t. Holly – N Branch-Oxbow 

S Branch 

Community Meetings 

Mt. Holly Enviro Cmte 

Mt. 

Holly- N Branch 

M ill Dam – M t. Holly – N Branch 

N Branch Paddle Safe 

9/25/2018 

4 Rancocas Creek National Water Trail Nomination 

5 

N Branch 

N Branch 

Adopt a Creek

Growing up in close proximity to the Rancocas Creek I like numerous others took it for granted. 

Around 2013 John Trontis of the NJ State Park Service asked would I paddle down the Rancocas and report back findings if the 

on the North Branch Rancocas Creek Greenwood Branch brought about numerous capsizes and damaged canoes and kayaks. 

c edar tree’s w resulting issues. 

Rancocas Creek is the chock stone of the wild and wooly conditions of 

Pine Barren paddling. 

through endless meadows and towns, reaching Smithville and then Mt. Holly. This is classic Pine Barrens flat-w 

ater placid, bucolic 

paddling. 

beaches, pitch pines waving, big sky blanketing a summer paddle. All chill and relaxing. 

Introduction 

C reek would make a suitable Bluewater Trail. Paddling out 

Swift running water pushes one up against blown- 

down 

Enter the Burlington County Canoe Trail, paddle down 

Launches on narrow sandy sugar sand 

Mt. 

Holly oxbow channel, and flood channel pierces downtown and the old Mill Dam and Raceway. 

and enjoyable paddling the Rancocas becomes. 

It is a paddle 

back in time. 

Launching and rounding the fir 

st 

bend in Mt. Holly one realizes how unique, remote 

One catches the tide and is pulled out of Mt. Holly westward past Timbuctoo, Long Bridge Burlington County Park, 

creek 

banks buffered by extensive fresh water marshes, all vibrant, dynamic, and full of wildlife. 

enjoyable paddling. 

though the Ra 

ncocas 

State Park, past a State of NJ Natural Area, past 

Even being passed by an i nfrequent 

seasonal jet ski and or motor boat adds to the 

One reaches in solitude, the semi-w 

ild confluence of the North and South Branch. Paddle back up to South Branch to the Burlington County Boat Ramp in Hainesport or paddle down 

under 

the Turnpike and Rt 295 bridges to open tidal water and eventually reaching the Delaware River. 

years of maritime heritage anchors the Creek. 

Paddling it allows one to touch heritage literally and figuratively. 

Horsehead Point, Shallop blockades, creek side distillers, underground rail road, native American sites, eagles, hawks, sand 

westward into a setting sun, a view basically unchanged since early settlers sailed the tidewaters. 

mills, 

portages and the like. 

resource. 

Creekside eating and music in Mt. Holly, Pemberton, Hainesport, Riverside, Delanco. 

What stands out along the Rancocas Creek? 

The Creek, her people, community and heritage. 

An unstated beauty app 

reciates the local resource of the Rancocas Creek. 

p ipers, 

herons, period battles stuck in the mud, you 

Paddle down to gain unde 

rstandings 

to the so called featureless creek. 

Rancocas C reek 

400 

paddling 

Marl mines, old 

is hidden from plain sight as an unwrapped amazing 


www.rcnwt.com 


Main 

Stem 

Melpine 

Landing 

North Branch 

Confluence 

North 

Branch 

Smithville 

Burl Co 

Canoe Trail 

Burlington 

County Boat 

Ramp 

Lumberton 

Municipal 

Launch 

Approximate Distances w Average Leisurely Paddling Time 

South Branch 

Burlington 

County Canoe Trail : Pemberton to Mt. Holly........ 14 miles (6- 8 hrs) 

Mt. 

Holly Oxbow Paddle Circuit................................................ 2 miles (1- 2 hours) 

Mt. 

Holly to Melpine Landing....................................................6 miles (2- 3 hrs) 

Melpine 

to Lumberton............................................................. 6 miles (3- 4 hours) 

Mt. 

Holly to Lumberton............................................................ 10 Miles (5- 6 hours) 

Mt. 

Holly to Lightening Jacks Marina....................................... 14 miles (5- 6 hours) 

Paddle 

Note: All paddling and multi- 

use activities in these areas as above of the 

Rancocas Creek are on tidal waters. 

SW Branch 

Paddle 

Safe. Wear a PFD. Respect Access and Multi-U se.

Acknowledgements 

https://videopress.com/v/hxKRKh3t 

Click Above Link for Video as Neil Young Melody Anchors 

Melpine Landing, Rancocas Creek Water Trail 

The list is long of folks who have helped put together the RCWT 

Paddling 

Guide. A heartfelt thank- 

you to all have answered the many 

questions and concerns expressed in connecting the dots and landings 

along the RCWT. 

RCWT Paddling Guide possible. 

It is a only through their help and assistance is the 

the RCWT that they enjoy time paddling safe. 

It is hoped by all who paddle and visit 

It is the common thread 

of others who have helped bring this guidebook about that people use 

the guidebook as a way to enhance their experiences and come to 

enjoy a fun day out paddling. 


www.rcnwt.com 


100 Pages 

of 

Terminology Used in the 

the Rancocas Creek Water Trail 

Paddling Guide 

1. 

Angle 

rural or agricultural areas as contrasted with urban ones 

2. 

Bend 

cause to turn from a straight course 

3. 

C reek 

a stream, brook, or minor tributary of a river. 

4. 

C hannel 

the bed where a natural stream of water runs a channel which has occurred naturally due to the flow of surface waters; or 

a channel that, although originally constructed by human activity, has taken on the appearance of a natural channel including a 

stable route and biological community. 

5 . 

G oosenecks – meanders 

6. 

O xbow 

something (such as a bend in a river) resembling an bend in the Creek. 

Natural process. 

7. 

M arsh 

a tract of soft wet land usually characterized by monocotyledons (such as grasses or cattails) 

8 . 

Meander 

a turn or winding of a stream found along the water trail 

9. 

P ass 

A Defined Channel that allows one to move past, (water trail pass – allows one to paddle past) 

10. 

P ortage 

the carrying of boats or goods overland from one body of water to another or around an obstacle (such as a dams and or 

fallen down trees) 

11. 

R each A length of channel with uniform characteristics. 

12. 

Strait 

narrowing of a channel along the water trail 

13. 

Turn 

bend in the water trail 

14. 

Traverse 

a distance to paddle across or through 


photo by frankie 

www.rcnwt.com 


Main Stem Rancocas Creek 

Sunrise Looking East 


www.rcnwt.com 


Location 

Location, Tides and Creek Ratings 

The Rancocas Creek Water Trail is a 80 mile (128 km) long tidal and non-tidal 

multi- 

use water trail connecting people to the 

Rancocas Creek’s natural environment, , its 400 years of maritime heritage and to the communities and creek towns it 

touches 

in the Mid- 

Atlantic’s Southern New Jersey. From the Pine Barrens National Reserve headwaters to paddling on 

bucolic, 

placid non-tidal 

flat- w ater to paddling on open tidal waters, a variety of paddling experiences awaits you. 

kayaking, 

bird- 

w atching, canoeing, fishing, relaxing, camping, hunting and just 

f loating 

down creek 

From 

to motorized vessels 

and jet skis on the Rancocas tidal reaches follow the Rancocas Creek Water Trail to learn what others already know: The 

Rancocas Creek is a gem, Hidden from Plain Sight. 


www.rcnwt.com 




Tidewaters 


State Park 


www.rcnwt.com 


Delaware 

River 

Trenton, NJ Capital 

General Location of the 

Rancocas Creek Watershed 

Delaware 

River 


www.rcnwt.com 


What 

Stands 

Out 

? 

400 

Years 

Maritime 

Heritage 

12,000- 

15,00 

End of last 

ice age 

10,000 

Years 

Man 

Arrives 

1671 Sussex 

County 

Lundy’s 

Willingboro 

Whaling 

Ship Building 

1682 

Moorestown 

Burlington 

County Prison 

1819 

Lumberton 

Mosasaurs 

Sand 

Mines 

Texas 

Typhoid 

Prohibition 

Development 

Water 

Trail 

170- 

200 

million 

years 

Atlantic 

Plain 

forms 

E arly 1600’s – 

Creek mapped by 

the Dutch/Swedes 

Sending Area 

Philadelphia 

Market 

Global 

Markets 

Revolutionary 

War 

Moorestown/ Battle 

of Mt. 

Holly/Admiralty 

Court/S. Girard 

James 

Forten 

Brick 

Works 

Timbuctoo 

- 

Underground 

Railroad 

Industrialization 

Recreation 

President 

Roosevelt 


State 

Park 

Rancocas Pathways 

www.rcnwt.com 

Exploring Historic Pathways, Discovering New Understandings 

Mill Dam 

GOAL

Non-Tidal 

Mt. Holly Above Mill Dam 

Tidal 

and Non-Tidal 

Tidal 

Melpine Landing 

a ncocas Pathways 

www.rcnwt.com 


360 Square Miles 

Ref: 

NJGS

Apologies, 

Corrections 

and Additions 

If your name is not included in this guide I do apologize. 

We who enjoy the Rancocas Creek seek the 

common ground approach among the multi- 

users of the RCWT. This is the thought process that more is 

accomplished but giving credit to the RCWT than to an individual. 

A special thanks to the steering committee, local historical society’s, environmental committees, 

municipalities and recreation committees. Peter Fritz of Delanco, Margo Pelligrino from 

Medford, Larry Tigar of the Mt. Holly Historical Society though gets a “Tip of the Hat” 

thanks for introducing me to the wet, wild and wonderful aspects of the Rancocas Creek in 

Mt. Holly and throughout the Rancocas Creek Watershed. 

Zap Back any suggestions, comments or concerns 


www.rcnwt.com 


Mt. 

Holly Monroe Street Park 

Rancocas State Park Pine Swamp Run 

Valley 

of 

the 



Exploring Exploring Historic Historic 

Pathways, 

Discovering New New Understandings 


Pathways 

www.rcnwt.com

• Don’t be fooled by the local nature of the RCWT. 

Paddle Safe. 

• Emergency Information 

PADDLE SAFE 

Issues can and will occur to the unprepared paddler. 

• When something goes wrong when paddling the RCWT one must not panic. Help will arrive though it will 

take time. Important to note that because the RCWT runs along the bottom of incisional marl banks 40- 

60 

feet high ones cell phone may not work. 

• Self- 

rescue maybe the prompt way to reach safety. Follow the techniques one has leaned in gaining paddling 

skills. If you’re a rookie paddling do not worry. Help will arrive, it may take some hours but help will arrive. 

• Dial 911. Provide Central Communications with a description of the incident and location. There are 

numerous emergency access points along the Creek. Timbuctoo, Long Bridge County Park, Rancocas State 

Park, Melpine Landing, Pemberton, out on the South Branch, Lumberton and Hainesport all have creek side 

access. If your injured in Town local EMS will facilitate your rescue. Rescue will come to you if you are 

unable to self- 

rescue. Out in the Pines paddle safe, always follow your paddle plan. Never paddle alone. 

Always wear a life jacket (PFD). 

• The best way to avoid an incident is to prevent an accident. 

a first aid kit. Do not be afraid to improvise. 

Keeping in mind injuries are preventable. 

Bring 


www.rcnwt.com 


High Tide 

Low Tide 

1000 

11-9-2017 

1600 

11-8-2017 

N Branch - Incoming Tide 

Original N Branch Channel 

Rancocas Creek Cleaved by Mt. Holly 1941 Flood Bypass Channel 

www.rcnwt.com

Check Out SOLO Wilderness Medical Programs 

www.soloschools.com

R ancocas 

Creek Paddlers Alert: 

NJ Fish and Game W aterfowl and Migratory Bird Hunting along the Rancocas 


Year Round Kayaking along the Rancocas brings paddlers into areas where 

l egal hunting of Waterfowl and Migratory Birds takes place. 


Rancocas Creek Beaver Trade (1665 A.D.) 

Price of a Brooklyn (NYC) Ferry ( S hallop) 

http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/waterfowl_info.htm 

Boat 

550 Dutch Guilders ($220.00) 

1/3 in Beaver Furs (Winter Beaver Pelts); 

1/3 Merchantable Wampum; 

1/3 in Goods, and Free Passage. 

Ref: 

Perry, John., A merican Ferryboats, 

1957 

Rancocas creek is both in the North and South duck 

hunting zones. The cut- 

off for North and South is Rt. 

73 and I- 295. 

Prepared 4 Public Advocacy 2 the Rancocas Creek National Water Trail, nomination 

www.rcnwt.com 

Paddler 

Note: 

North Duck , Pemberton, Mt. Holly , Hainesport to 

Rt. 

295 ends January 23r 

d 

R eview NJ Fish and Game Regulations 4 Seasonal 

South Duck , West of Rt 295 and South of Rt 73 ends 

14 

th 

January and North Goose ends 23 January 

Hunting Zones. 

Find also link below Map 

• Wear your PFD (Life Jacket) and Hunter Safety Orange Gear. 

• Elevate and Enhance paddling awareness. Plan your paddle trip accordingly. 

• Hunting often takes place in the morning and early evening (dusk) hours. 

• Plan your paddle trip accordingly. 

• Stay Alert for waterfowl decoys and hunters on turns and points along the Rancocas Creek. 

• Do not disturb decoys. Do not intrude on hunters. Do not bother hunting dogs. 

• Hunters Are More Likely 2 B Present in the Morning Hours and Early Evening. 

Wear Your PFD. Let a friend know where and when your paddling. Hypothermia sets in very quickly when water temps drop below 

70 degree’s. Dress properly. Double bag all electronic gear. Paddle Safe. Share the Ride. 

N J 

State Police 

Paddlers Alert 

Winter 

Safety 

Waterway Video Tips 

U May Not C Them ! 

NJ Duck Hunting Boat 


Creek spans numerous habitats, semi- 

wild, pristine, tidal marsh, natural 

areas in places . The Rancocas Creek Watershed embraces migratory ducks and 

other waterfowl, rail, snipe, coots or moorhens (gallinule). All legally hunted in NJ. 

by Rancocas pathways, inc



is 

a 

Natural 

Classroom 

Technology 

- 

Science 

- 

Engineering 

- Mathematics 

P hoto Michael C. 

Used w Permission 


Pathways 

Photo Kevin Lee 


A Healthy Community is a 

Garden to Grow H. Rouse 

www.rcnwt.com

Tidal 

and Non-Tidal 

The Rancocas Creek divides into 3 main branches, These are the North, the South and the SW Branch. The tide joins 

the Rancocas in Mt. Holly on the North Branch and at Lumberton on the South Branch. The North and South Branch 

join at the confluence inside Rancocas State Park where they form the Main Stem. From the Main Stem the Rancocas 

flows 10 miles to the West entering the Delaware River at Delanco and Riverside. 

Non-tidal 

sections of the Creek take place on placid, bucolic and at times swift-water 

running sections. Well- 

marked 

portages (North Branch: Pemberton, Smithville, Mt. Holly; South Branch: Vincentown; SW Branch: Medford, Kirby’s 

Mill) 

are needed around dams. You may have to carry around blow- 

down trees across the Creek. 

. 


www.rcnwt.com 


Education is Fun, 

Naturally 

© Infographic 

Tide 

- Water 

Ecology 


www.rcnwt.com

Tidal waters are different all together. Tides define the ultimate character of the Rancocas. Depending on various 

factors and times (existing Creek water levels, the phases of the moon, winds, Delaware Bay and River tides, location on 

the Creek, timing of paddling w the tides and the direction one paddles) tides impact ones paddling. At low tide the 

Mt. Holly tidal weir at King Street requires one to either paddle around the Oxbow to avoid or one has to carry over the 

weir. 

Tidal currents are swift running 3-4 knots. At the confluence expect cross- 

channel tidal currents, winds, shifting 

sand- 

bars and shallows. Down on the main stem one encounters open water tidal paddling. Conditions are robust. 

Paddle Safe. If you enter the Delaware River the mouth of the Rancocas has an ever shifting sand bar that has for 

kayakers wicked currants. 

4 Feet. 

Paddle Safe depends on the time of the year your paddling. Tides normally range from 2 to 

A general rule of thumb is to paddle on a tide favorable to the direction you paddle. Stay within 1- 

2 hours of 

high tide or low tide to gain the best paddling conditions. 

Tides. 

Tidewater 

Paddling 

Review tide charts for specific on Rancocas Creek 

Numerous online sites present the tides of the Rancocas Creek. 

NOAA’s tide chart and tracking system is one of the best. 

https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html?id=8538921 


www.rcnwt.com 


Sample Tide Chart 

Try to Avoid Paddling In the Low Tide Window 


www.rcnwt.com 


Non-Tidewater 

Paddling 

There is no white water in any of the Pine Barrens waters but they move along fairly 

rapidly; they meander and twist and turn that new scenes always await paddlers . 

Tannic Pine Barrens rivers, creeks, 

water 

as tea - "cedar water," . 

ponds 

and lakes 

have characteristic color 

of 

the 

Derived from when tannins and other organic waste from riparian cedar 

with iron from the ground water to give the rivers a deep color. 

trees 

combine 

Paddling through the Pine Barrens 

can be transformational. 

N Branch New Lisbon 


P athways 

w ww.rcnwt. 

c om 


Seasonal 

Paddling 

Risks 

Weather 

The Rancocas Creek watershed has a basically temperate climate for paddling. Exemplary times to paddle are 

in the Spring and Fall months. Late August water levels in the Pine Barrens drop making paddling a slog across 

low water. Freshest and thunder storms are encountered in mid to late Summer. Ice freezes the Creek during 

periods of time in the winter. Summer brings hot and humid conditions. Take time to cool off and avoiding 

heat related medical issues. Winter paddling a beast of different extremes. 

Winter paddling is enjoyable. Paddle Safe. Outfit ones yak for winter paddling. Wear a PFD, follow a float 

plan, never paddle alone. 

Paddling. 

Always wear layers. Bring dry clothes. Contact Pathways for specifics of Winter 


www.rcnwt.com 


Incoming Tide 

Lead in2 

2018 

Ice Bound 


State Park Bluewater 


411 

www.rcnwt.com 


Creek - Melpine Landing

Kayaking 

Equipment 

Kayaks are the vessel of choice on the Rancocas. Meandering and twisting all about, shallow water, deep waters, 

tidal changes, narrow passages in places, kayaks are the vessel of choice on the RCWT. Wear a USCG approved PFD 

( life- 

jacket). Inspect gear and kayaks before paddling. Bring water, snacks and garbage bags. 

Mill Dam, Mt. Holly 

N Branch - Head of Tide 


www.rcnwt.com 


That 

Was 

Then... 

Rock products. v.16 no.2 May 22 1915. 

400 

Conservation 

Years of Maritime 

Heritage 

...This is 

Now 



www.rcnwt.com 


www.rcnwt.com

Commit 

to your fellow paddlers and multi- users to: 

1 . Be considerate of other users. 

2 . Park, paddle and visit in designated areas, respect private property. 

3 . Dispose of human waste properly. 

4 . Paddle on the Creek whenever possible. 

5 . Respect wildlife, sensitive plants, soils, and cultural resources. 

6 . 

Clean up trash from others, Follow “Leave No Trace” principles. 

7 . Minimize group size and noise. 

8 . Learn the local ethics for the places you paddle. 

9 . Respect regulations and closures. 

10. 

Access Creek Landings and Launches, Responsibly. 

11. 

Get Involved, don’t be a bystander. 

Paddling Ethics 

Paddling Behavior 


www.rcnwt.com 



www.rcnwt.com 


Mouth of 



and 

Main Stem 


www.rcnwt.com 


Confluence 



www.rcnwt.com

Delaware River 

Water Trail 

Maritime Landscape 


RCNWT 


Insert 

Main Stem 

N Branch 

N Branch Channel 

Mt. Holly 

Main Stem-Rancocas 

Hainesport Boat Launch 

M t. Holly Oxbow – Mill Race 

S Branch 

Burlington County Park 

Lumberton 

9/25/2018 


40

Glenn Foerd National Register of 

Historic Places and Historic 

Musuem

MASTER 

Paddle Trail Icons 

Kayak Launch 

Parking 

Food/Refreshments 

EMS 

or Police Dept 

Marked Canoe Trail 

Maritime Site 

Hiking or Walking Trail 

Picnic Area 

Motor Vessel or Jet Ski Launch 

Kayak Trail 

Fishing 

Nature or Interpretative 

Center, Park Office 

Portage 

Wildlife Viewing 

14 

Cat Paddling 

Water Trail Mileage 

Public Bathroom 


www.rcnwt.com 


Rancocas Creek Water Trail Miles 


www.rcnwt.com 


Hawk Island Marina 

40.045188, 

-74.962695 

Lightening Jacks Marina 

Best of the Wurst 

Restaurant 

40.039997 

-74.945528 

Olympia 

Lakes Park

Main Stem - Chapel Crossing 

Riverside/Delanco/Burlington County Greenway 

Looking West Towards Amico Island Park at the Mouth of Rancocas Creek and the Delaware River

Warning: 

Paddling 

on the 

Delaware 

River is 

Open 

Tidal 

Paddling 

Paddle 

Safe

9/25/2018 


48

Main Stem 

Moorestown/Willingboro 

Looking West 

Borton Landing 

Texas Mill Wheel 

Hudson Island 

Hollingshead Ferry 



www.rcnwt.com

Main Stem 


Melpine Landing 

39.999876, 

-74.844480

If 

Your Skiing and Need Gear - www.mthollymotorsports.co m 

Support Rancocas Creek Commerce 

Listen 

- 

Share the Tide - Look 

- Kayaking Alert - You Can See Them, They May Not Not See You. 

Stay 

Alert When Yaking on the Rancocas Creek Multi-Use Water Trail


www.rcnwt.com 


Confluence 

and 

North 

Branch 


www.rcnwt.com 


Westampton 

Town Hall 

Police Station 

Melpine 

Landing 


Nature 

Center 

Long 

Bridge 

Burl Co 

County 

Park 

Burl Co 

Canoe 


Mile 14

South 

Branch 

Confluence 

North 

Branch 

Exploring Historic R Bennet Pathways, Photo Discovering New Understandings 

photo r bennet

GPS Coordinates 

39.999876 

-74.844480

Maintained 

Trails 

GPS: 

39.997273 74.822965 

Maintained 



State of NJ State Natural Area 

Paddle Spur 

Maintained 




Maintained 


State of NJ State 

Natural Area 

Access High 

Tide Only 

Horsehead 

Point 

Timbuctoo 

Grubbs Run 

Outlet 

Scooby’s 

Island 

Causeway 

Pass n 

Marsh 

Cedar 

Swamp 

Run 

High Tide 

Access Only 

Long Bridge 

Burlington County Park 

King David Pass 

High Tide 

Access Only 


www.rcnwt.com 


Exploring Historic Pathways, 

Discovering New Understandings 

State 

of 

NJ 

Natural 

Area 


www.rcnwt.com

Timbuctoo 

Maintained 


Cedar 

Swamp 

Run 

Maintained 


Rancocas Nature 

Center 

Land 

Vista 

Horsehead 

Point 

Timbuctoo 

Burial 

Memorial 

GPS 

40.003168 -74.814052 

Land 

Vista 

State 

Natural 

Area 

Scooby’s 

Island 

Long Bridge 

Burl Co Park 

Maintained 


King David Pass 

High Tide Only 

Long Bridge Burl Co Park 


Pathways 


www.rcnwt.com

Timbuctoo 

- Underground Rail Road 

Scooby’s 

Island 

Horsehead Point - Rancocas State Park Border 


www.rcnwt.com 


Mt. 

Holly-Head 

of Tide 

GPS 

- 39.991987 

-74.782286 


www.rcnwt.com 

Spellbound 

Brewing 

Pickle 

Works 

Landing 

Food/Pizza 

/Village 

Idiot Brew 

Company 

King Street 

Weir 

Shops 

Mill Race 

Weir 

Green 

Foot 

Bridge 

Mill Dam 

Train Station 

Distillery 

Non-Tidal 

Burlington County 

Parks 

Canoe Trail 

Mile 14 

Mt. Holly NJ Green 

Acres Rails 2 Trail 

Maintained 


Low Tide Shallows 

Overnight Camping 

Mt. Holly By Permit Only 

Contact Mt. Holly 

Recreation

Photo by Rose Byers - 1942 


drone by ajh 


Pathways 


www.rcnwt.com

1941-2017

N Branch 

Oxbow 

Channel

Mt. Holly 



Canoe 


Headquarters Burlington County 

Parks Restored Industrial Village 

GPS 

39.985549 -74.749585 

Maintained 


Birmingham 

Pemberton

Mill 

Dam Mt. Holly 

Pickle Works Landing Mt. Holly 

Today’s Rancocas Nature Center Westampton 

Hugh Campbell 

1930’s-1950’ 

s 

Mt. 

Holly Rancocas 

Creek Artist 

Self- 

Taught 

Impressionist 

Landscape Painter 

B urlington County Prison Museum Warden’s House is now the permanent home of the Hugh Campbell Collection.

Smithville Industrial Village 

Headquarters Burlington County 

Park System 

Smithville Historic 

Village 

Maintained 


GPS 39.985549, -74.749585 

Dam 



Trail Mile 10 


Parks Hiking Trail 

Maintained 


Note: Group Camping in 

B ulrington County Parks By Permit 

Only. Contact Burlington County 

Park System

GPS 39.976441, -74.710483 

GPS 

39.976441, -74.710483

Isaac 

Hilliard 

House 

B & B 

GPS 

39.970159, -74.684133 

Fossil 

Thalweg 

Dams 

Grist 

Mill 

Antiques 

Clarks 

Canoe 

Rental

Canby Collection 

Dolphin, 

Canadian Rockies 

Alpine Wildflower, Canadian Rockies

Fort Dix 

No Public Access 

Pemberton 

Town Hall and 

Police Dept 

Pinelands 

Commission 

Headquarters 

Whitesbog 

Big Tank 

Connection 



Mile 1 

Greenwood 

Bridge 

Start of Burlington County Parks 

Rancocas Creek Canoe Trail, 

Burlington County College 

GPS 

39.961825, -74.644326 

State Forest 

Headquarters 

Pakim Pond 

Pakim Pond 

GPS 

39.880669 -74.532698

Ref: 

Canby Collections 

Rancocas Creek Canoe Trail 

N Branch Canoeing Heritage 

Pemberton and New Lisbon 

Ref: Library Company of Philadelphia 

1901

Timbuctoo 

- N Branch 

Cedar Springs 

S cooby’s Island 

- N Branch

Pemberton 

Town Hall and 

Police Dept 

Curly 

Grass Fern 

Reach 

S tart of Burlington County Parks Rancocas Creek 

Canoe Trail, 

Burlington County College 

GPS 

39.961825, -74.644326 

Greenwood Branch

3,000 Acres of “Wet-Wild- Wonderful” 

W hitesbog 

Historical 

Village 

Upper 

Reservoir - On the Big Tank Connection 

www.whitesbog.or g 

Flat 


and Lake Paddling 

Trails

Whitesbog Historic Village 

GPS 

39.959283-74.509319 

Whitesbog 

Big Tank 

Connection

Whitesbog Historic Village 

GPS 

39.959283-74.509319 

Whitesbog 

Big Tank 

Connection

Sandy 

Shore Line 

Big Tank Connection 

Estimated Round Trip Paddle Time 

3-4 

Hours 

Big Reservoir 

Cranberry Cay 

Big Reservoir 

Union 

Pond 

W hitesbog Office 

and General Store 

Big Tank 

Sandy 

Shore Line 

“Narrows” 

Bog Gate 

Connector 

Little 

Tank 

Bog Gate 

Big Tank Connection 

Launch

Main 

Stem 

Melpine 

Landing 

North Branch 

Confluence 

Burlington 

County Boat 

Ramp 

State Park Ramp 

Smithville 

Burl Co 

Parks 

Hdqrs 

North 

Branch 

Hainesport Creek Turn Landing 

Under Development 

South Branch 

Lumberton Municipal 

Gated Access 

Gated 

Access 

Launch 

Approximate Distances 

Lumberton to County Boat Ramp............. 2.5 miles 

Lumberton to Melpine.............................. 6 miles 

Lumberton to Mt. Holly.............................. 10 Miles 

Paddle 

Note: All paddling and multi- 

use activities in these 

areas as above of the Rancocas Creek are on tidal waters. 

Paddle 

Safe. Wear a PFD. Respect Access and Multi-U se. 

SW Branch 

S Branch


Forest Resource 

Education Center 

Pineland Commission Headquarters 



Watershed 

Brendan Byrne State Forest 

Double Trouble State Park 

Wharton State Forest 

Rancocas Creek Headwaters 

NJ Pine Barrens National 

Reserve 

Bass River State Forest 

Belleplain State Forest

Whitesbog 

Village 

Historical District 

Pakim Pond Day Use Area 

Brendan Byrne 

State Forest 


www.rcnwt.com 


GPS 

39.872545 -74.520586

Wharton State 

Forest 


www.rcnwt.com 


GPS: 

39.720305-74.671504

GPS 

39.781575, -74.632403

South and 

Southwest 

Branch 


www.rcnwt.com 


Lumberton 

Ramp 

South Branch 

Photos courtesy Kurt Williams 

Medford Lakes Resolution 

134-17 

October, 2017 

Kirby’s Mill 

James Still Site 

SW 

Branch 

Barton 

Arboretum 

Tip of Hat 

2 Bog Iron 

Hainesport Township 

Creek Turn Pottery 

Creek Front 

Public Access Site 



www.rcnwt.com 

Canoe 

Festival


State Park 


State Park 


State Park 

GPS 

39.984894 -74.843707 

GPS 

39.976320 -74.825692 

Creek Turn 

Landing 

Under 

Development

State Park Bluewater Trail 



State Park Bluewater Trail 



Horsehead 

Point 

www.rcnwt.com

Chestnut Street 

Lumberton 

Municipal 

Launch 

Gated Access 

Hours Posted 

GPS 

39.968485 -74.813929 

SW 

Branch 



Jack Allen Memorial Early 

Country 

Living Musuem 

South Branch 



GPS 

39.934681, -74.751342 

Seasonal Farm 

Stand

Jack Allen Memorial Early 

Country 

Living Musuem 

Pinelands 

Preservation 

Alliance 

South Branch 

R ancocas Creek 

GPS 

39.934681, -74.751342

South Branch Wild-Area Paddling 

Have Experience Paddling before Poking Up these Headwater Areas 

S outh Branch. Parking at Sawmill Park in Vincentown. Put in on South side of Race street on Mill Pond. Go upstream (South, then 

East) on Mill Pond and South Branch Rancocas. We have cleared up (at least in spotsa kayak/canoe width) to the end distance 

point indicated on the map. Beyond this point there are three bank to bank blowdowns which require port arounds or climb 

overs 

to make it to the Ridge Road Bridge. After you leave the Mill Pond the stream is pretty good, but eventually it does nar 

row 

down and when the water is higher there is current to attend to in some of the narrower and curvy spots. 

Courtesy Kurt Williams Admin South Jersey Kayakers

1787 

Tidal 

Reach 

Kayak Landings 

SW Branch 

Marl Pits/Mines 

2018 


Mills 

Sand Mines 

Interpretative Sites and Organizations 

B arton Arboretum * 

Kirbys Mill; James Stilll Hx Site 


www.rcnwt.com

Cultivating Watershed Heritage: 

Agriculture 

Burlington County Agriculture Center - Main Stem 

Rancocas Creek Watershed 

Burl Co 

Agriculture 

Center 

Batsto River Watershed 

www.batstovillage.org 

Moore's Meadow Blueberry and Cranberry Farm 

Moore's Meadow Road, Tabernacle 

Note 

- Watersheds Abut Each Other 

Rancocas Creek Flows West 

Batsto River Flows East 




Batsto 

River 


Photos of Moore’s Meadow Cranberry’s by Susan Donelly Ward 


www.rcnwt.com 


GPS 

39.934681 -74.751342 

SW 

Branch 



GPS 

39.916836 -74.805137 

Kirbys Mill 

James Still 

Heritage Site 

Barton Arboretum 

GPS 

39.910333 -74.812237 

South 

Branch 


Creek

SW Branch 


Photos Kurt Williams

Kirbys Mill 

James Still 

Heritage Site 

GPS 

39.916836 -74.805137 

Medford Canoe 


Barton 

Arboretum 

GPS 

39.910333 -74.812237 

GPS 

39.897589, -74.821168

Medford Canoe Trail 

A very nice, relaxing, 

chill paddle. Shaded, 

slow moving, cedar 

waters. 2 hours 

approximate.

South West Branch Paddling 

Very Chill Relaxing Paddling 

Medford Canoe Trail 

SW Rancocas put in 

around the Medford 

Park/Bunning Field in 

Medford. can't recall 

exactly where but below 

the lake/dam the landing 

is, but it's pretty 

noticeable. 

Ref: Courtesy Kurt Williams, Admin 

FB South Jersey Kayakers

GPS 

39.910333, -74.812237 

Kirbys Mill 

James Still 

Heritage Site

Have Experience Paddling 

before Poking Up these 

Headwater Areas

Rancocas Creek Portages

Commercial/Business 

Community/Towns/Cities 

Oversight 

Stewardship 



www.rcnwt.com 

Horsehead Point, N Branch 

Multi-Use 

Community Supported Agriculture 

Legislative

Organizations for 

Paddling & Public 

Access Interest 

(click links) 


Park System 

• American Canoe Association 

www.americancanoe.org 

• Philadelphia Canoe Club 

www.philacanoe.org 

• Outdoor Club of South Jersey 

www.ocsj.org 

Access Fund 

www.accessfund.org 

• NJ Pinelands Commission 

www.state.nj.us/pinelands 

• Pinelands Preservation Alliance 

www.pinelandsalliance.org 

Listings provided as sources of information for 

advice on paddling and public access 

• NJ State Park System 

• United State Coast Guard 

• Leave 

No Trace 

www.lnt.org 


www.rcnwt.com 


Suggested Readings 

• L ittle Rivers of NJ, 

Professor James Cawley. 

• F G to the Pine Barrens, Howard Boyd (references et all - Gordan/Anderson/Arseneult/Cresson/Leck/Brunel/Schoop) 

• The Pine Barrens, 

John McPhee 

• 

Army 

Engineers 

R eport to Congress, 

1898 (et al) 

• Mt. Holly Books (Rizzo, Winzinger); Red Mans Hall and Other Story’s of the Rancocas 

• Iron in the Pines, 

Arthur Pierce 

• Pemberton, 

A Historic Look at A Village on the Rancocas, 

Malsbury and Olsen 

• Crusing NJ Tidewaters, 

Fred VanDeventer 

• Smuggler 

Woods, 

Arthur Pierce 

• 

NJ 

Pinelands Commission: 


Creek Watershed 

• The Art of Splitting Stone, 

Mary and George Gage 

• Conservation 

Easements, 

Trust for Public Lands 

• 

Little 

Old Mills, 

Marion Rawlson 

• The Archleogoy of New Jersey, 

Dorthy Cross 

• Ploughs 

and Politics, Charles Reed and His Notes on NJ Agriculture, 

Carl Woodward 

• The Historic Rancocas, 

George DeCou 


North Branch - High Tide 

• American 

Admiralty, 

Erastus Benedcit 

• Maritime 

Commerce of Colonial Philadelphia, 

Arthur Jensen 

• Local Rancocas Creek Community Historical and Environmental Society’s Materia on the Rancocas. 

• The Economic of Collective Action, 

MacMillan 

• And Many, Many, Many More 


www.rcnwt.com 


Thank-You

Click Link to Watch 

Video Clip 

https://videopress.com/v/8ZRRra6U 

Click Link to Watch Video Clip 

Low Tide - N Branch


Designated Non- 

Profit 

Managing the Rancocas Creek 

National Water Trail Initiative; 

Community- 

based 

organization hosting 

recreational- 

educational 

activities for area youths and 

families; 

Guided Paddle Excursions; 

Kayak Livery 

Summer 

Eclipse - Summer 2017 

Melpine Landing Rancocas State Park 

N Branch 

www.rcnwt.com

Microsoft PowerPoint - 100 Page Rancocas Creek Water Trail Guide

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