Trip, Batsto River, Moving Water

A beautiful remote run down the heart of the Wharton State Forest.  Start at Batsto Lake and paddle 4 miles against the gentle current.  Take a break to eat lunch and turn around and paddle back to the canoe launch.  Basic boat control skills are needed to paddle through the twists and turns and some obstructions (dead and live trees) in or near the water, The back 2/3 of the lake is a fun challenge to find the deep water channels.  Time on the river including lunch to paddle 8 miles is approximately 5 hours.  The Batsto River is approximately 70 minutes from the Philadelphia Canoe Club.  The trip was changed due to low water on the Wading River.

Meet at: Basto Lake Canoe Launch, Basto Lake Road, Hammonton, NJ, just off Route 542 Hammonton Road: Coordinates 39.646784949354995, -74.65330174825571.  Click here for a street view of the turn off at Route 542. 

To Go On This Trip: Click "REGISTER" and complete the registration Information.  Participants must have completed an American Canoe Association (ACA) Waiver.  ACA members complete an online waiver when joining or renewing their membership.  Individuals who are not ACA members may either complete a 1 day event membership paper waiver and pay $10 cash the morning of the trip or join the ACA for $40 which will then provide insurance for trips for the next year.

Requirements: 

• Transportation of your boat and gear to the trip location.

• Wear a PFD while on the water and you should have a whistle.
• Wear quick drying clothes suitable for getting wet.  If the weather is cool dress in layers and have a set of dry clothes with you in the boat.
• Protect your toes, wear water or close-toed shoes.

Suggestions (for your comfort):

• Bring water to drink and lunch.
• Bring a dry bag or waterproof container for your personal belongings/extra clothes.
  Have a secure place to carry your car keys.
• Have a set of dry clothes in your car if you want to change for the ride home.

Trip Updates: Will be sent via email up to the day before the trip. 

Questions: Contact Tom Moiani at tbmoiani@gmail.com

Rain, inclement weather, or high or low water levels can cancel or reschedule the trip or change the trip location.

TRIP PARTICIPANTS RESPONSIBILITIES.pdf