The Best Swimming Holes In New Jersey

Written by Kirstin Harrington
Updated: June 4, 2023
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There are several locations to cool off in New Jersey. Why not try one of the many swimming holes in the Garden State instead of going to the Shore? Any lake or river that’s also deep enough to swim in qualifies as a swimming hole, and there are numerous to pick from. 

Turtle Beach

The Delaware Water Gap’s Turtle Beach is a day-use-only recreation facility. Access to the beach is $10 per car or $2 for walk-ins. Despite the fact that it might get crowded, there is a lot of room to spread out in the area. 

There are two restrooms on the property, one near where you enter and another closer to the beach. All year long, lifeguards are on duty at Turtle Beach, which is accessible. Although pets are not allowed on the beach, they are welcome to explore much of the Delaware Water Gap while on a leash.

Many of the most well-known attractions in the Delaware Water Gap are close to Turtle Beach. For details about the Delaware Water Gap and beautiful river vistas, go to the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center. 

Additionally nearby is Millbrook Hamlet, a replica village from the 1800s that regularly organizes live demonstrations. It also offers a fascinating peek into the background of the Delaware Water Gap. Visit Dingmans Falls or take a stroll via Van Campens Glen to one of the many waterfalls in the vicinity if you’re seeking more nature.

Delaware Water Gap

Many of the most well-known attractions in the Delaware Water Gap are close to Turtle Beach.

©Tetyana Ohare/Shutterstock.com

Highlands Natural Pool

The Highlands Natural Pool is the ideal location for unplugging and taking a break from your hectic schedule. The public is welcome to come here to swim, have a picnic, go trekking, and have fun. All individuals can purchase annual memberships and day pass. 

The New York chapter of The Nature Friends, who controlled what was then known as Camp Midvale, excavated the pool out of a hillside in 1935. The pool was separated from the previous Campsite in 1997, and it is now a 501(c)3 non-profit community facility.

This Olympic-sized, stream-fed swimming pool is situated next to Norvin Green State Forest in Ringwood, New Jersey. It’s notably one of the local’s favorite swimming spots for the last several years. The pool doesn’t utilize any chemicals.

Norvin Green State Park

The Highlands Natural Pool, a stream-fed swimming pool, is situated next to Norvin Green State Forest in Ringwood, New Jersey, pictured here.

©Andrew Tuttle/Shutterstock.com

Parvin Lake

Discover this historical jewel with a wealth of recreational options that sits just outside the Pine Barrens. Parvin State Park is a hidden gem that lies fewer than five miles from Vineland, New Jersey, and 40 miles south of Philadelphia. 

This lake is home to both vegetation and animals as well as history. Parvin, a campground with cabins and a summer swimming beach on Parvin Lake, was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Two lakes are available for canoeing and kayaking, and there are 15 miles of paths for walking, jogging, or bicycling. Come for a short visit or stay overnight.

The swimming beach at Parvin Grove, which is situated on Parvin Lake, is manned by lifeguards. Parking lots, a bathhouse, a first-aid station, a place to rent a canoe, and a stand that sells refreshments, trinkets, and beach necessities are all relatively close by. Along either side of the beach are picnic areas with benches, grills, and playgrounds. 

Only during the warmer months and while there are lifeguards on duty is swimming allowed. In the swimming area, inner tubes, kayaks, and other water equipment are not allowed. PFDs that have received approval from the Coast Guard are permitted.

Parvin Lake

Parvin Lake is home to both vegetation and animals as well as history.

©Vito natale/Shutterstock.com

Swartswood Lake

Swartswood Lake offers peaceful settings and leisure activities in a rural, undeveloped setting. Off the main route and distant from any major highways, this isolated and rural location is worth finding. Only electric motors are allowed, so don’t expect to see jet skis or gas-powered speedboats speeding over the 519-acre natural glacial lake. 

Rather, anticipate seeing flashy sailboats, canoes, and kayaks on Swartswood Lake’s calm waters. In addition, Little Swartswood Lake, which is reachable in a matter of minutes by car or short trek, provides the same amenities on a smaller scale. 

Binoculars will allow you to get a close-up look at the several resident bald eagles that are commonly spotted soaring over the lakes as well as other raptors and ducks. Pack your bags for the day or the weekend and make the most of all that the natural environment has to offer.

In the summertime, swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. are the swimming hours. Amenities with dressing rooms, bathrooms, showers, a first-aid station, and a refreshment building where food and beach accessories can be purchased are close to the beach.

Summary Of The Best Swimming Holes In New Jersey

RankSwimming HoleLocation
1Turtle BeachHardwick Township, Delaware Water Gap
2Highlands Natural PoolRingwood
3Parvin LakePittsgrove Township, Salem County
4Swartswood LakeStillwater and Hampton townships in Sussex County
Summary Table Of The Best Swimming Holes In New Jersey

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Vito natale/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Kirstin is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering animals, news topics, fun places, and helpful tips. Kirstin has been writing on a variety of topics for over five years. She has her real estate license, along with an associates degree in another field. A resident of Minnesota, Kirstin treats her two cats (Spook and Finlay) like the children they are. She never misses an opportunity to explore a thrift store with a coffee in hand, especially if it’s a cold autumn day!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Is the Highlands Natural Pool natural or man-made?

The New York chapter of The Nature Friends, who controlled what was then known as Camp Midvale, excavated the pool out of a hillside in 1935. The pool was separated from the previous Campsite in 1997, and it is now a 501(c)3 non-profit community facility.

Where can you swim and view bald eagles?

Binoculars will allow you to get a close-up look at the several resident bald eagles that are commonly spotted soaring over Swartswood Lake as well as other raptors and ducks. Pack your bags for the day or the weekend and make the most of all that the natural environment has to offer.

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