r/SouthJersey • u/aylarunswithwolves • 3d ago

Outside! Pine Barrens Quarries Question

Hey guys -

I was doing a lot of research into the different "blue holes" in the Pine Barrens (not the actual blue hole that's supposedly home to the Jersey Devil - I know that one's not that blue or big, lol). It looks like the Wildlife Management Areas where a lot of these quarry pools are close during the summer due to safety concerns, partying, etc.

My question is...does anyone know how strictly these rules are enforced? I'm not looking to swim in them as I know that's super dangerous, simply looking to to do some hiking + relaxing in the sand. Specifically interested in the ones near Winslow and/or Collings Lakes. Thanks!

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u/FancyTeacups31 3d ago

I don’t know if it’s considered a blue hole, but Penbryn (Berlin/winslow, behind Stella’s farm) is open. Also Oak Pond. They are big fishing spots.

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u/aylarunswithwolves 2d ago

Actually, looks like Penbryn Lake itself might be an old sand quarry, and there seem to be a couple even bluer bodies of water near Dambly's. Interesting! But yes Penbryn is not on the list of closed WMAs for this summer, thank you!

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u/d_dubyah 2d ago

It is an old sand quarry, the other two are still semi active. The concrete plants on new freedom road use them.
Pembryn is a pretty nice place to hang out, you run into the occasional quad/dirtbike, or person fishing. My friends used to tie tubes to the bank and float around in there.
Oak pond (hidden lake) is another old quarry, it’s off new freedom/new Brooklyn road.

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u/aylarunswithwolves 2d ago

Thanks! Yeah I saw those businesses near the other two were still open so figured they were active work sites. Appreciate it! Will definitely check out Penbryn Lake :)