Do the South Jersey Splish Splash. That’s when you load up your boats, swimsuit, paddles or fishing gear and head to one of the many, many (many!) bodies of water in South Jersey for a day of cool fun.

Go wild and shoot the rapids on the Mullica River, Great Egg Harbor River or Delaware River – all designated as Wild and Scenic Rivers. Canoeing or kayaking along the rapids will give you a thrill. But not as big a thrill as spotting the rare and abundant wildlife you’ll see as you make your way along the waterways.

Of course, it isn’t all whitewater here. Expert and beginner paddlers find that an afternoon making their way down the Batsto River, Oswego River or along the Rancocas Creek are at once, both challenging and relaxing. Many spots within the state parks are also great for fishing – as long as you have your license – and lots of outdoors fans spend their days paddling and fishing, fishing and paddling. No canoe or kayak of your own? We’ve got you covered. Or to be more precise, the dozens of liveries in the region have you covered offering canoe and kayak rentals, and in some cases lessons, so everyone can enjoy the peace and calm of being on the water.

If you’d rather be IN the water, there’s lots of opportunities for that, too. On a steamy day, Atsion Lake in Wharton State Forest or Lake Absegami in Bass River State Parks are cool antidotes to summer heat. And they are equipped with bath houses, picnic grounds and snack bars so you can dip in and out all day long.