Toms River in New Jersey

Trip Overview

This was our second trip on Toms River (see my report from 2004), and conditions were much improved.

For one thing, we put in just a bit downstream of Route 70 this time and had no encounters with spiderwebs. Far fewer downed trees in the river this time, as well. Still, there were submerged logs. One precipitated a quick exit of the canoe by me to avert a swamping.

All in all, a more enjoyable trip. Again we saw ducks and a heron (possibly the same one we saw in 2004).

There were more canoes on the river this time. We didn't see any first-hand, but saw their SUVs at our put-in point.

Fees:

None

Directions:

Reasonable put-in point: From Route 70, proceed south on County Road 527 (Whitesville Rd) about two miles. Right on Edgemere Drive to the end. Turn right on dirt road, which dead ends about 60 yards in. From there is a short portage to the river.

The 2003 report on this site mentions putting in where 70 crosses the river. The site I describe is more difficult to drive to, but safer for put-in. The day we canoed, there were three or four SUVs parked there, and even a family camping by the stream.