These are the most snake infested bodies of water in New Jersey

Don’t shoot the messenger on this one. I’m also unhappy about that headline.

I don’t know if it’s because of movies that I have an overwhelming fear of snakes, but I always have.

It could have been reading "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" at a young age, it could have been seeing someone badass like Indiana Jones hating them and realizing it’s okay to fear them, or it could have been that God awful (but still kind of fun to hate-watch) action movie "Anaconda" with J. Lo.

All I know is I have a borderline irrational fear of snakes to the point where I near weekly consider that one could be hiding in the toilet I’ll be about to use.

I *so* wish that weren’t true.

That’s why I found this research from World Atlas to be so creepy. One of the most snake-filled bodies of water in the Garden State is one that I’ve been to many times in my life and I had no clue!

See if you’ve been to any of these snake hubs.

NJ’s most snake-filled bodies of water

Merrill Creek Reservoir

While this is manmade lake is popular for sport fishing due to its deep waters, the surrounding area is a prime habitat for snakes.

In this reservoir’s rocky edges, you’re likely to see northern water snakes, Rough green snakes, and eastern milk snakes.

Thankfully, these species of snakes are non-venomous.

Manasquan Reservoir

The Manasquan Reservoir is a staple in Central Jersey. I have great memories of going there with Girl Scouts, my cross country team in high school, or with family for some exercise.

I had no clue I was among so many snakes or I wouldn’t have left the parking lot.

The extensive wetlands, coves, and flora-covered banks support a robust population of northern water snakes, especially near the fishing and wildlife observation areas that people frequent.

Furthermore, the park’s over 5-mile perimeter trail offers multiple points of contact with these reptiles, particularly near the marshy inlets and boardwalk sections.

Parvin Lake

Parvin Lake is surrounded by swampy lowlands, cedar forests, and slow-moving tributaries, making it an ideal spot for our slithering “friends.”

World Atlas reports that a “high number of northern water snakes, which are commonly seen along the edges of the boat launch, swimming near docks, or sunning on rocks and logs.”

Yuck.

Lake Hopatcong

Another favorite of northern water snakes is Jersey’s largest freshwater lake.

While the lake’s popularity as a recreation spot keeps some wildlife at bay, the combination of habitat diversity and size makes Lake Hopatcong a consistent location for snake sightings in northern New Jersey.

Mullica River

The area surrounding the Mullica River is a snake’s dream. According to World Atlas:

Its slow-moving current, tidal marshes, and densely wooded banks make way for habitat for several snake species, including eastern king snakes, ribbon snakes, corn snakes, black racers, and, of course, northern water snakes.

Are there venomous snakes in New Jersey?

Yes. Though are they rare to encounter? Also yes.

While I may sound like a totally different person than I did at the start of this article: don’t be like me.

You have little to worry about when it comes to encountering a snake in New Jersey. They tend to avoid humans.

🐍 Have a ssswell sssummmer ssseeking out thessse sssnakes! 🐍

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5's Kylie Moore. Any opinions expressed are Kylie's own. You can follow Kylie on Instagram.
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