How Big Timber Creek may become your new favorite kayaking spot

New plans aim to make this South Jersey creek the ultimate local escape.

Hot summer days are more fun on the water. There is growing interest in recreational water access, particularly as temperatures rise due to the effects of climate change. That is why Old Pine Farm Natural Lands Trust in New Jersey is on a mission to restore access to a Gloucester and Camden County waterway that leads to the Delaware River. 

The trust has just begun the National Park Service’s River Town Review, a survey and planning process designed to make Big Timber Creek more accessible, which is the first step toward the goal of regular recreational use. The National Park Service’s toolkit has already helped other communities successfully reconnect residents to local waterways and boost outdoor recreation.

Step one, “Form the River Town Review Team,” is all about engaging stakeholders. Vice chairman Russell Burt says, “We are still partnering with six municipalities, which all touch Big Timber Creek. We have also passed resolutions for Camden County and Gloucester County to work together.”

The creek passes through both counties, and the project expands on what was done recently with the Cooper River.

The surveying, known as the Community Assessment, is step two. They began by kayak along Big Timber Creek, which connects to the Delaware River through Gloucester City. Burt tells Green Philly that the trust frequently hosts a kayak hikes, a hike to the river for kayaking, which have become a key way to gather input and raise awareness.

“One survey is online and the other one is on site,” Burt explains. “We want people to come out and experience the creek before they complete the surveys.” The kayak hikes have been the perfect opportunity, and Burt is recruiting more individuals who’ve used the waterway to complete the survey. This includes kayakers, boaters, and even those who have fished along the creek.

According to Burt, the members of the trust are confident in the National Park Service’s guidance. “They were interested in talking to us to see if we fit into their technical assistance grant program.” After the community assessment, the third stage of the review is the Community Workshop, which is a brainstorming session. Burt believes that significant headway has already been made, and that all five steps can be completed before the end of 2025.

Beyond offering a place to cool off, restoring access to Big Timber Creek could have lasting benefits for South Jersey communities. Improved water access attracts visitors who support local restaurants, shops, and outfitters, boosting the local economy. Increased recreation opportunities create demand for new businesses and jobs, from kayak rentals to bait shops and guided tours. Access to natural spaces also encourages residents to get outside and be active, which improves public health and strengthens community pride.

Projects like this can help build stronger social connections by inviting neighbors to collaborate and envision a shared resource. Enhanced green and blue spaces often increase property values and inspire further neighborhood investment. On top of these social and economic gains, restoring waterways helps improve water quality, support wildlife habitat, and build resilience against flooding and extreme heat; making the region healthier and more climate-ready.

With community support and regional partnerships, Big Timber Creek could soon become a vibrant, welcoming waterway that offers something for everyone – from quiet paddles to lively community gatherings.

Cover photo courtesy of Russell Burt