Stretching across the border of Salem and Cumberland Counties, Bostwick Lake is a 32-acre waterway that serves as a quiet retreat for anglers and nature lovers alike. While the lake sits within the boundaries of Alloway Township (Salem County) and Upper Deerfield and Hopewell (Cumberland County), its primary public access point is located at 177 Friesburg Road, Bridgeton, NJ. It’s public access area is quite literally 0.2 miles or a 5 minute walk from the border of Alloway Township.
Bostwick Lake sign next to the public parking lot along Friesburg Road.
Link to Google Maps: Bostwick Lake | GPS Coordinates: $39°31’47, -75°16’3$
A Key Link in the Cohansey River
Bostwick Lake is more than just a recreational spot; it is a vital part of the Cohansey River ecosystem. The river begins its 30-mile journey right here in the headwaters of Salem County (fed by the lake and Cool Run waterways), winding through Cumberland County before finally emptying into Cohansey Cove on the Delaware Bay.
Bostwick lake Dam which is at the southwestern side of the lake and where the headwaters of the Cohansey River begin
Visitor Information & Regulations
For those planning a visit, the lake offers several amenities for a day in the outdoors:
- Parking & Access: Free public parking is available along Friesburg Road.
- Boating: There is a designated “car-top” boat launching area. Please note that outboard motors are strictly prohibited to preserve the tranquility and ecology of the water.
- Fishing: Public shore fishing access is available.
Pro Tip: Visitors will notice branches and old plant growth emerging above the waterline. This is a result of heavy underbrush that flourished during the years the lake bed was empty; it now provides a unique habitat for local fish and wildlife.
A Decade of Recovery: 1999–2009
While it may look like a permanent fixture of the landscape today, Bostwick Lake has faced significant challenges over the last few decades.
In September 1999, Hurricane Floyd dropped record-breaking rainfall on the region, causing the lake’s dam to fail. For the next ten years, the area was little more than a “muddy pit.” It wasn’t until July 9, 2009, that the lake was officially reopened to the public and restocked with fish to begin the long process of habitat restoration.
From Campground to “Quasi-Park”
The management of the lake has also evolved. In September 2010, officials moved away from a traditional campground model, as rental revenues were no longer covering the high maintenance costs. Today, the area has been transitioned into a “quasi-park and picnic area,” focusing on day-use activities rather than overnight stays.
Bostwick Lake Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Size | 32 Acres |
| Primary River | Cohansey River |
| Motor Rule | No Outboard Motors |
| Key Event | Dam failure in 1999 (Hurricane Floyd) |
| Reopening | July 2009 |
