Oswego River in New Jersey

Trip Overview

Three of us started out at Lake Oswego which is about 6 miles south of Chatsworth and 2 miles east at a place called Penn State Forest (an odd name for New Jersey but I think it would be great for a university!). To further confuse matters this is basically part of Wharton State Forest.

One has to paddle across the lake then portage over a road marked as private property. However this is commonly done as indicated by paddlers from rental places dropped off to do it. This is a 3-hour run which varies from fairly narrow to very wide open areas ending at Harrisonville Pond.

The water level was marginal. Quite a few wood obstructions must be negotiated, but these are all manageable. The current is pretty calm. There are many beautiful vistas on this run. Near the end there are wide open bogs leading into a grassy lake. There are several beaches along the way to stop.