State Forest • Ocean County
Bass River
Bass River State Forest
Quick Facts
About This Park
Bass River State Forest preserves thousands of acres of Pine Barrens ecosystem in Ocean County. This state forest provides a peaceful retreat for hiking, camping, and exploring the unique ecology of southern New Jersey. Key features include boat launching, camping, cabin rentals, picnic areas. Visitors will find excellent recreational facilities, nature viewing opportunities. The park is well-equipped with 12 visitor facilities including parking, restrooms, and information services.
Highlights:
- boat launching
- camping
- cabin rentals
- picnic areas
- playground
- visitor center
Driving Times
Points of Interest
Facilities
- • Ballanger Creek Parking(parking)
- • Park Entrance(entrance)
- • Shelters(shelter)
- • Visitor Contact Station(visitor contact station)
- • Park Entrance(entrance)
- • Civilian Conservation Corps Information Kiosk(information kiosk)
- • Park Office(office)
- • Park Office Parking(parking)
- • Batona Trailhead Parking(parking)
- • CCC Memorial Parking(parking)
- • Trails Information Kiosk(information kiosk)
- • Lake Absegami Parking(parking)
Recreation
- • Group Area Campground
- • Boat Launch
- • Picnic Pavilion
- • Cabins
- • Picnic Area
- • Powered Boat Launch
- • North Shore Campground
- • Lake Absegami Day Use Area
- • Playground
- • South Shore Campground
- • Picnic Pavilion
- • Playground
Nature & Wildlife
- • Fire Tower
- • Nature Center and Pavilion
- • Food Concession
- • Civilian Conservation Corps Memorial
- • First Aid
- • Potable Water
- • Recreational Field
- • Beach Access
- • Lake Absegami Spillway
Seasonal Tips
Summer Tips
Lake Absegami swimming and camping season.
- Campsite reservations fill quickly for summer weekends
- Lake swimming beach has lifeguards in season
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim at Bass River State Forest?
Yes, Lake Absegami has a designated swimming beach open during summer months. The lake also offers fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season.
What camping options are available at Bass River?
Bass River State Forest offers 176 campsites including tent sites, lean-tos, and cabins. Sites are available by reservation through the NJ Parks reservation system.
Guide generated from njshoreguide.com/state-parks/bass-river-state-forest/