Trip, Batsto Lake and River Out and Back, Moving Water

A beautiful remote run down the heart of the Wharton State Forest.  Start at Batsto Lake and paddle against the gentle current for several miles.  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 wide turns and a few obstructions in or near the water.  Time on the river including lunch is approximately 4 hours.  The Batsto River is approximately 70 minutes from the Philadelphia Canoe Club

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 532.  There are no bathrooms.

To Go On This Trip: Click "REGISTER" and complete the registration Information.  Participants must have completed an American Canoe Association (ACA) Waiver.  The ACA is updating their online waiver platform.  In the interim all participants must complete a paper waiver the morning of the trip if you did not already complete one on a 2026 trip.  You will need your ACA membership number to complete the waiver.  Individuals who are not ACA members must pay $10 cash for a 1 day event membership the morning of the trip.

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.

• 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 a 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