Forked River State Marina

317 South Main Street, Lacey Township, New Jersey 08731

Available Activities

Fishing
Boating
Sailing

New Jersey’s Barnegat Bay Hub — 125 Slips for Vessels Up to 50 Feet, Protected Hurricane Hole, Direct Access to Barnegat Bay, Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean, Water/Electric/Cable TV, Lacey Township Ocean County New Jersey

Forked River State Marina is a state marina facility at 311 South Main Street, Forked River, Ocean County, New Jersey, operated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Well-regarded as a protected “hurricane hole,” this marina provides direct access to Barnegat Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the Atlantic Ocean via Barnegat Inlet. The facility features 125 slips for vessels up to 50 feet with 6-foot draft, dockside water, electricity, and cable TV hookups, laundry facilities, showers, and restrooms, a holding tank pump-out station, seasonal berths (April 1–October 31) and winter storage (November 1–March 31), and nearby bait, tackle, fuel, ice, ship stores, restaurants, and repair facilities.

Boating Access

The marina’s strategic location provides boaters with convenient access to multiple waterways. From the slips, boaters can reach Barnegat Bay’s sheltered waters for fishing and sailing, connect to the Intracoastal Waterway for extended cruising, and access the Atlantic Ocean through Barnegat Inlet. The marina’s reputation as a “hurricane hole” means it offers excellent protection during storms, making it a popular choice for seasonal boaters.

Seasonal Information

The summer season runs from April 1 to October 31, with winter storage available from November 1 to March 31. Due to high demand, the marina typically maintains a waiting list for seasonal slips — current permit holders receive priority before new applicants. Fees are regulated by the State of New Jersey and based on vessel length. Contact the dockmaster at 609-693-5045 for current rates and availability.

📍 Location: 311 South Main Street, Forked River, NJ 08731 — Phone: 609-693-5045. NJ DEP operated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a waiting list for slips?

Yes, the marina is popular and typically maintains a waiting list. Current permit holders get priority. Call 609-693-5045 for details.

What makes it a “hurricane hole”?

The marina’s protected location provides excellent shelter from storms, making it a preferred safe harbor during severe weather.

Wildlife & Nature

Forked River State Marina — provides boating access to Barnegat Bay. The marina’s salt marsh, tidal creeks, and bay support ospreys, great egrets, and diamondback terrapins. Horseshoe crabs spawn nearby.