Rancocas Creek

Rancocas Creek is a tributary in Burlington County, New Jersey, with two main branches flowing through farmland and forests. The two arms converge as they make their way toward the Delaware River.

The waterway served as an important trade route in the 1700s, linking inland settlements to Philadelphia. Its role as a transportation corridor made it vital to early colonial expansion in the region.

The creek borders Timbuctoo, a settlement established in the 1820s by free Black Americans, which includes a cemetery with graves of African American Civil War soldiers.

The creek can be accessed at multiple public points along its course, each offering different conditions for various activities. It is wise to check local conditions before visiting, especially after heavy rainfall.

Archaeologists use sonar technology to discover historical artifacts beneath the surface, revealing centuries of maritime activity. This underwater research uncovers hidden stories of trade and life along this waterway.

Location: New Jersey

GPS coordinates: 40.02300,-74.91900

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:00