🌤 Weather at Forked River State Marina by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28–71 °F | 58–86 °F | 32–77 °F | 22–47 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Toms River, 8 mi away, elevation 10 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
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.
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.
Nearby Attractions
Lacey Township — adjacent. Island Beach SP — 10 miles south. Barnegat Lighthouse SP — 10 miles south.
More parks nearby: Double Trouble State Park is a short drive away, while Island Beach State Park lies a short drive away.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Forked River State Marina
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash 6 feet or less, with the pet under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from swimming beaches and swimming waters statewide.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from cabins/lodging; the Pet Friendly Camping Program designates campsites at 13 areas (e.g. Round Valley all sites, Allaire 1-8, Bass River 1-85, Stokes 101-137) for up to two dogs or cats per permit.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $5.00 per night additional charge for a pet-friendly campsite; no day-use pet fee.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pet Friendly Camping requires current rabies vaccination with written proof at check-in; caged birds/reptiles only allowed inside RVs.
Are dogs allowed at Forked River State Marina?
Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dep.nj.gov. More: New Jersey state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Forked River State Marina
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
