Regional Trails

49 Rancocas Road
Mt. Holly, NJ 08060
609-265-5000

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Rancocas Creek Canoe Trail

Rancocas Pointe Trail

Rancocas Creek Canoe Trail


	Click on the above picture for a larger version or click here for a downloadable .PDF version.

The Rancocas Creek is one of the most prominent and important waterways in Burlington County. It supported Native Americans and European settlers for centuries and, as witness to the evolution of its watershed, the Rancocas has in turn provided a means of transportation, commerce, industry and recreation for generations.

From its headwaters in the pitch pine lowlands of Ocean County, the North Branch of the Rancocas Creek meanders its way over about 30 miles through Mirror Lake in Browns Mills and on past forests of maple, hickory and oak, to the main stem in Hainesport Twp. The North Branch transitions from a typical, quiet Pinelands stream with low banks and the distinctive 'cedar water" tint to a wider and steeper-banked waterway moving through closed canopy forests of tall hickory, oak, red maple and tulip poplar.

Along these banks you will see an enormous variety of wildlife. Painted and box turtles sun themselves on fallen logs while herons and kingfishers hunt in small coves. White-tailed deer come to drink while beavers glide silently by as they go about their chores. Wood ducks, mallards and Canada Geese forage along the banks and herd their broods of young in the spring.
Today, the Burlington County Parks System is eager to invite you to experience this beautiful waterway by paddling the 14-mile Rancocas Creek Canoe Trail. From Burlington County College's Pemberton Campus through Historic Smithville Park and on to Mill Dam Park in Mount Holly, this trail will give you the chance to get outdoors and see one of Burlington County's most serene and breathtaking resources.

	Enjoy your time on the water and be careful!

Rules and Guidelines

Please stay in your canoe/kayak at all times. The distinctive "cedar" color of the creek obscures the streambed and any hazards.
If an obstacle is encountered, only portage if you can safely do so.
Public access points are clearly signed. Please stay on the trail and respect private property.
One life jacket per person must accompany each canoe.
Wear your life jacket.
Do not attempt a trip longer than you are capable of completing.
For the beauty and health of the creek, please pick up your own trash and a little extra, if you can!
Please do not pick the vegetation.
Do not feed or approach wildlife - Enjoy from a distance.
Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on Parks System property.

Tips & Suggestions

Check the weather forecast. Getting caught on the water in a thunderstorm can be dangerous!
Leave all valuables (cameras, jewelry, money, etc.) at home or locked in the trunk of your car.
Use neck strap to prevent losing eyeglasses.
Use waterproof bags for car keys, cell phones, food or extra clothing, and SECURE in canoe.
Wear old sneakers or river shoes.
If you tip, keep upstream of canoe.

Things to bring:

Sunscreen
Insect Repellant
Sunglasses w/strap
Old sneakers/water shoes
Water-tight bags for keys, cell phones, etc.
Change of clothing
Length of rope to secure supplies
Trash bags

Canoe/Kayak Rentals in the Area

Adams Canoe Rental
1005 Atsion Road, Southampton
www.adamscanoerental.com
609-268-0189
(Group Rentals Only)

Clark's Canoe Rental
201Hanover Road, Pemberton
609-894-4448

Eastern Mountain Sports
400 Rt. 38, Moorestown Mall
856-234-3030

RJ Toads Canoe Rental
3413 Weymouth Road, Browns Mills
609-234-5287