Thanks to pop culture, New Jersey often gets misunderstood—but paddle boarding in New Jersey tells a very different story. The Garden State packs an impressive range of waterways into a small footprint, making it easy to paddle a mountain river in the morning and a coastal bay or lake later the same day.

With pristine rivers, wildlife refuges, protected bays, and surfable beaches, New Jersey is an outstanding SUP destination.

New Jersey’s geography works in a paddler’s favor.

What makes it special:

• Rivers, lakes, bays, and ocean surf within short driving distances

• Extensive protected lands and wildlife refuges

• Beginner-friendly flatwater and family routes

• Surf SUP opportunities on the Atlantic coast

Located in northwest New Jersey along the Pennsylvania border, the Delaware Water Gap offers some of the most scenic paddle boarding in the state.

Why it’s a standout:

• A 70,000-acre protected recreation area

• Forested mountains, rocky ridges, and waterfalls

• A 40-mile free-flowing stretch of the Delaware River

• Ideal for families and first-time river paddlers

The Park Service even operates free weekend shuttles, making one-way river trips easy.

Ocean City is one of New Jersey’s most iconic resort towns—and a surprisingly versatile SUP destination.

What you’ll find here:

• Calm bay water for beginners on one side of the peninsula

• Salt marsh paddling in Great Egg Harbor Bay

• Excellent birdlife including egrets and herons

• Atlantic-facing surf for experienced SUP surfers

Ocean City is consistently ranked among the best surf towns in the U.S., and its variety makes it great for mixed-skill groups.

The Wallkill River is unusual—it flows north, winding through floodplain forests, wetlands, and beneath rocky cliffs.

Why paddlers love it:

• Passes through Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge

• Home to 225+ bird species and dozens of mammals

• Exceptional butterfly and dragonfly populations

• Quiet, immersive paddling experience

Water levels fluctuate, so it’s best to check with refuge staff before launching.

Formed in 1908 by damming the Ramapo River, Pompton Lakes offers relaxed lake paddling in a natural, park-like setting.

Highlights include:

• Easy access from Terhune Memorial Park

• Calm water suitable for beginners

• Bird and wildlife sightings

• Convenient boat launch near parking

It’s a great option for a quick SUP session without committing to a long river float.

The Passaic River stretches roughly 80 miles and showcases both New Jersey’s industrial past and its ecological recovery.

One of the best SUP sections is near Two Bridges Road in Lincoln Park.

Why this section works well:

• Borders the Great Piece Meadows wildlife preserve

• Frequent sightings of herons, hawks, swans, turtles, deer, and fox

• Especially beautiful in autumn

• Gentle, winding current ideal for touring boards

Major clean-up efforts have made this river far cleaner than it was decades ago.

Lake Hopatcong is New Jersey’s largest freshwater lake, with over 50 miles of shoreline and countless coves to explore.

What to know before paddling:

• Boat traffic can be heavy on summer weekends

• Midweek paddles are calmer and more enjoyable

• Wind can build quickly—check forecasts

• Several islands and sheltered bays offer escape from chop

It’s one of the few places in the state where you can paddle to lakeside restaurants after your session.

Seasonal considerations matter:

• Spring offers high water and fewer crowds

• Summer brings warm conditions but busier waterways

• Fall is prime time for foliage and wildlife

• Winter paddling is limited to experienced cold-water paddlers

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Before you launch:

• Check wind forecasts on larger lakes

• Be mindful of tides near coastal bays

• Wear a leash and PFD on rivers

• Start early during peak summer months

New Jersey proves that you don’t need vast wilderness to find great paddle boarding. From the Delaware Water Gap to Atlantic surf beaches and wildlife-rich rivers, the Garden State offers far more SUP variety than most people expect.