3 South Jersey Outdoor Spaces Attracting Illegal Activity To Close For Summer

SOUTH JERSEY — Three state-protected outdoor spaces in South Jersey that have attracted illegal activity over the years are closing for the summer.

In the past, these areas have seen large crowds and unauthorized activities, including swimming and off-road vehicle use, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

The following areas will be closed from May 22 through Sept. 1 (Labor Day). Click each link for maps:

• Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area: Sand Plant Area
• Menantico Ponds WMA: Area 1, Area 2 and Area 3
• Winslow WMA: Winslow East (Hot Mix) Area

They will all reopen on Sept. 2.

The NJDEP has enacted seasonal closures at the aforementioned locations in past years. But the state agency noted that different parts of Menantico Ponds WMA in Cumberland County are closed this summer.

"Some areas that have been seasonally closed in previous years will remain open this year with zero tolerance for illegal swimming, illegal parking, and any other violation of WMA regulations," the NJDEP said in a statement.

Signage will be posted in the closed areas, and New Jersey Conservation police officers will enforce the regulations, officials said.

Winslow WMA is in Winslow and Monroe townships. Cedar Lake WMA includes portions of Buena Vista and Monroe Township.