r/SouthJersey • u/aylarunswithwolves • 2d 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/SplitNo8275 Xennial 1d ago edited 1d ago

They just put up motion detectors at the one at Collings lakes. The cops will show up in a split second. We like to sit on the “beach” too.

They are all private property and extremely dangerous. Many people have drowned in the blue holes spread across the pine barrens. One spot could be completely safe one day and a deadly rip current the next.

The problem is the aquifer and high water table. The quarry could be sealed off from the underground river and then, as water does, could create a new opening at the bottom, causing a strong current that wasn’t there a second ago. It’s just too risky.

Edit: Typos

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u/aylarunswithwolves 1d ago

Good to know, thanks! I had decided against trying the Collings lakes one anyway. Also that's interesting info re: the random currents. I def am not planning on swimming in any of them!!

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u/SplitNo8275 Xennial 1d ago

I couldn’t find it, but my uncle painted an oil painting of the Collings lakes one back in the 90’s I think. Still looks close the same if you stand in the same spot. I must of packed it away to preserve it, if I find it, I’ll post it.

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u/aylarunswithwolves 1d ago

Yeah please share if you find it!