Popular South Jersey Swimming Spot Reopens After 4 Years

One of New Jersey's best and most beautiful areas for swimming is reopening after being closed for nearly four years.

Lake Absegami Swimming Area Reopens After 4 Years

Lake Absegami in Bass River State Forest officially reopens for swimming on Wednesday, July 10.

The Lake Absegami swimming beach was closed in 2020 due to COVID-19 and the multi-year capital improvement project of the complex. Everything is now set for the reopening of the popular beach.

The renovated facilities include a newly designed food and novelty concession, bathrooms, changing rooms, a family restroom, and a circular lifeguard room with a 360-degree view of the beach.

The Rules of Swimming in Lake Absegami

Swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty: Wednesday - Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Inner tubes, rafts, and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area. Only the U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets are allowed.

Be prepared for the heat - bring extra water, a hat and an umbrella for unshaded areas.

Whatever you carry into the park, plan on carrying it out too. Bring a bag or two for trash and recycling. There are no trash receptacles in the park.

The History of Bass River State Forest

Bass River State Forest was New Jersey’s first state forest, established in 1905 for public recreation, water conservation, wildlife, and timber management.

The forest is within the Pinelands National Reserve, a one million-acre ecologically sensitive area that is home to many rare plants and animals.

You can hike over 12 miles of marked trails, including the short, self-guided Absegami Trail through a cedar swamp in the Lake Absegami Natural Area and a self-guided trail through the remains of the Civilian Conservation Corps camp and memorial.

How to Get to Lake Absegami

Bass River State Forest is about 25 miles north of Atlantic City and six miles west of Tuckerton. Take the Garden State Parkway to Exit 52 heading south and Exit 50 heading north.

Head south toward Dan Bridge Road, and turn right onto Dan Bridge Road. Turn left onto Stage Road and turn left to Lake Absegami.