This page created and maintained by Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Boating
There are several small lakes in the Cohansey watershed that have public access points and allow boating. These are beautiful spots for kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. The Cohansey River above Sunset Lake is not tidal, allowing for easy paddles without needing to time your excursion with the tides. You should always check official regulations when planning your trip, but, in general, paddling and electric motors are allowed, and launch fees are not charged.
Swimming
Swimming is allowed at the Sunset Lake beach when life guards are present. Check the City of Bridgeton Recreation page for more information. Bridgeton City Park also offers a splash park for children, located near the zoo.
Fishing
For regulations on limitation on outboard motor use and other information, see the NJDEP Places to Fish site.
Principal lakes
The following lakes in the watershed are described here.
| Name | Size (acres) | |
| Bostwick Lake | 33 | |
| Clarks Pond | 37 | |
| Mary Elmer Lake | 21 | |
| Sheppards Millpond | 51 | |
| Sunset Lake | 87 |
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Bostwick Lake
Bostwick Lake is managed by the Bostwick Lake Commission, which represents the Townships of Alloway, Upper Deerfield, and Hopewell. It is located at the headwaters of the Cohansey River.
There is a paved parking area on Friesburg Deerfield Rd, in Hopewell Township. There’s also a small boat ramp up a short drive on Friesburg Deerfield Rd. Parking lot location. Entrance to boat launch.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Clarks Pond
Clarks pond is part of the Clarks Pond Wildlife Management Area. It’s a beautiful and relatively secluded spot.
There’s a shell-covered parking area down a dirt road from Clark’s Pond Road in Fairfield Township. A small dock and ramp are located there. Parking lot location. Entrance to access road.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Mary Elmer Lake
Mary Elmer Lake is part of Bridgeton City Park.
There is a paved parking lot on Mary Elmer Drive, off of West Ave. Location.
To reach the dedicated boat launch, enter at the West Park Walking Trail System entrance, on West Park Drive, near West Ave. Travel the dirt road to boat launch area. However, the lake at the launch area may be mucky. Entrance to West Park Walking Trail System. Boat launch.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Sheppards Millpond
Sheppards Millpond is part of the Cohansey River Wildlife Management Area. It’s a beautiful spot with consistently clear water.
A parking lot, dock, and boat launch can be accessed from Sheppards Mill Rd in Greenwich Township. Parking lot location. Entrance to access road.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Sunset Lake
Sunset Lake is a key part of Bridgeton City Park, and is commonly used for boating, fishing, and swimming when the beach is open.
The main boat launch is at Piney Point, which is accessed from Beebe Run Rd. Parking area. Entrance to access road. This is a separate entrance than is used for the beach and amphitheater.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Image: Sal Mangiafico, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.