Atsion Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Atsion Lake |
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Lake Atsion in the New Jersey Pine Barrens
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| Atsion Lake | |
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| Location | Atsion, New Jersey, United States |
| Type | Reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Mullica River |
| Primary outflows | Mullica River |
| Basin countries | United States |
Atsion Lake is a beautiful man-made lake located in Wharton State Forest. You can find it in the famous Pine Barrens area of New Jersey. Specifically, it's in the small community of Atsion in Burlington County.
This lake is an important part of the Mullica River system. It's a great place for outdoor fun! Visitors can enjoy many activities, including:
- Boating
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Camping
In the winter, when there's snow, it's also a popular spot for cross-country skiing.
Contents
Atsion Lake's History
The Name's Origin
The name "Atsion" comes from the Lenni Lenape people. They were Native Americans who lived in this area long ago. The name comes from their Unami language. It described a "strong, cedar-colored stream." The Lenape tribe called this stream Atsayunk or Atsiunc.
From Iron to Recreation
In the late 1700s, Atsion became an important industrial site. Around 1765, a man named Charles Read started an iron forge here. A forge is a place where metal is heated and shaped. This forge made "bog iron," which is iron found in swampy areas.
During the American Revolution, the Atsion forge produced important supplies for the American forces. After the war, the area continued to grow. People started making iron stoves here. Other mills were also built, including:
- A grist mill (for grinding grain)
- Saw mills (for cutting wood)
- A paper mill (for making paper)
Later, farmers even grew crops like cotton and peanuts in the area.
Becoming a State Forest Gem
The state of New Jersey bought the Atsion area in 1954. It then became part of the larger Wharton State Forest. Today, it's a wonderful natural space for everyone to enjoy.
