Best lakes in Burlington County are found within a region characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, including freshwater lakes, wetlands, and extensive forests. This area in New Jersey offers various recreational opportunities, from tranquil lakeside settings to more extensive wilderness experiences within state forests. Burlington County's waterways and surrounding natural areas provide a setting for outdoor activities. The county features several notable landmarks and natural features, making it a destination for those seeking natural exploration.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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From this spot you get lovely views over the scenic Atsion Lake. This man-made lake is located in Wharton State Forest, in the Pine Barrens region of Atsion, New Jersey. The name "Atsion" originates from the Lenni Lenape Unami language, referring to the cedar-colored stream called Atsayunk or Atsiunc.
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Once known as Lebanon State Forest, it bears the name of a former New Jersey Governor who championed environmental protection. The forest is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, mountain biking, fishing, and birdwatching. History buffs can explore the remnants of the Lebanon Glass Works, a thriving industry of the 19th century. The Cedar Swamp Natural Area within the forest is a unique habitat teeming with rare plant life.
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Franklin Parker Preserve is a sprawling 11,379-acre natural treasure nestled within the heart of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Once a thriving cranberry farm, the preserve now stands as a testament to conservation efforts. Owned and managed by the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, it plays a crucial role in connecting several expansive state forests, creating a vital corridor for wildlife.
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Perched in a strategic location, it provides visitors with a panoramic view of the surrounding natural landscape. From this vantage point, you can observe various wildlife species, such as birds, deer, and other creatures that call the preserve home. The platform is a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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The Palmyra Cove Nature Park is a 250-acre nature preserve along the Delaware River. Despite being so close to urban areas, the park lets you feel like you are miles away from civilization. The park is home to many different species of birds and animals and has a range of habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, and meadows.
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Pakim Pond has a small viewing platform and a few informational plaques. Near the parking area there is a picnic area, and in the fall, the trees around Pakim Pond change color and are reflected in the water.
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Great place to stop if you are riding the trails through Brendan T. Byrne State Forest. There is a small platform you can go out on to get a good view of the water.
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Not a bad place to go biking, hiking but bring your mosquito spray and tick repellent
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For a wide range of outdoor activities, Atsion Lake is a prime choice, offering boating, hiking, fishing, swimming (when lifeguards are on duty), and camping facilities. Crystal Lake Park also provides opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding, with access to the Delaware River Heritage Trail.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Atsion Lake and Pakim Pond are both listed as family-friendly. Willingboro Lakes Park, in particular, has been enhanced with a children's play area, picnic tables with grills, and improved trails, making it ideal for family outings.
Burlington County offers a variety of hiking trails. For example, within Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, you'll find diverse ecosystems and trails suitable for hiking. Crystal Lake Park also features trails for hiking and biking. You can explore various hiking routes, including the easy Batsto White Trail or the Long Bridge Park Full Loop. Find more options in the Hiking in Burlington County guide.
Yes, swimming is permitted at Atsion Lake, but only when lifeguards are on duty. Always check local regulations and lifeguard schedules before planning to swim.
Absolutely. Crystal Lake Park offers trails suitable for biking, including a section of the paved Delaware River Heritage Trail. You can also find numerous road cycling routes in the area, such as loops from Rowan College at Burlington County or around Atsion Lake. Discover more cycling options in the Road Cycling Routes in Burlington County guide.
Beyond the lakes themselves, you can visit Pakim Pond, which has a small viewing platform and informational plaques. Observation Platform also offers scenic views. The Cedar Swamp Natural Area within Brendan T. Byrne State Forest is known for its unique habitat and rare plant life.
Yes, Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, formerly Lebanon State Forest, contains remnants of the Lebanon Glass Works, a significant 19th-century industry. The community of Medford Lakes also features charming log cabins and a Chapel on the Lake, contributing to a unique historical atmosphere.
Facilities vary by location. Willingboro Lakes Park offers a paved parking lot, picnic tables with grills, a small picnic shelter, fishing and kayak piers, a children's play area, and restrooms. Crystal Lake Park also provides a picnic pavilion and restrooms. Pakim Pond has a picnic area near its parking.
Many lakes in Burlington County offer excellent fishing opportunities. Atsion Lake, Crystal Lake, and Willingboro Lakes Park are popular spots. Other lakes like Strawbridge Lake, Presidential Lakes, Oakford Lake, and Mirror Lake are known for species such as Bluegill, Carp, Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Pickerel, Sunfish, and Yellow Perch.
Yes, Franklin Parker Preserve is an 11,379-acre natural treasure within the Pinelands, crucial for wildlife. Palmyra Cove Nature Park, a 250-acre preserve along the Delaware River, is home to many bird and animal species across wetlands, woodlands, and meadows.
The pollinator meadow at Crystal Lake blooms from May to October, offering a beautiful sight. In the fall, the trees around Pakim Pond change color, reflecting vibrantly in the water. Winter also offers cross-country skiing at Atsion Lake, providing year-round appeal depending on your preferred activities.
Willingboro Lakes Park features improved trails, and Crystal Lake Park offers a 1.7-mile paved multi-use trail section of the Delaware River Heritage Trail, which is generally accessible. For specific easy hiking routes, consider options like the Batsto White Trail or Long Bridge Park Full Loop, detailed in the Hiking in Burlington County guide.


Still not found your perfect lake in Burlington County? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.