Artesian Well at Estell Manor Park, Mays Landing, NJ, 08330

## Overview The Artesian Well at Estell Manor Park is a deep artesian well located within the Atlantic County Parks and Recreation system in southern New Jersey. The well is reported to be nearly 200 feet deep and flows under natural pressure — a true artesian source where underground water is pushed to the surface by geological pressure rather than requiring a pump. This kind of pressurized flow typically indicates the water originates from a confined aquifer, filtered through deep layers of sand and gravel characteristic of New Jersey's Coastal Plain geology. The well has long been a local favorite for collecting water. Longtime visitors — including an elderly couple in their 70s or 80s — have reported drinking from it for years. However, Atlantic County officials have stated that the water is not suitable for human consumption, so visitors should be aware of that advisory before deciding to collect or drink the water. Estell Manor Park itself is a sprawling natural area with trails, forests, and the South River running through it. The park has historical roots tied to the Estell family, early glassmaking operations, and the region's rich Pine Barrens heritage. ## Directions The main park entrance at 109 State Highway 50, Mays Landing, NJ 08330 does **not** provide direct access to the artesian well. Instead, follow these steps: 1. **Head south on State Highway 50 (Route 50)** from Mays Landing. 2. **Look for a small sign** on the side of the road that reads **"Atlantic County Parks"** — this marks the correct turn. The street sign at this intersection will say **"Artesian Well Road."** This turn is approximately 1 mile south of the main park entrance at 109 State Highway 50. 3. **Turn onto Artesian Well Road** and continue straight for roughly 1 mile until you reach the river. 4. The artesian well is located near the end of the road by the river. **Note:** The park's official listed address (109 State Highway 50) is technically in Mays Landing, but the well and surrounding area are actually within the community of Estell Manor. GPS coordinates **39.412661, -74.742396** should guide you close to the well site. For additional information, you can contact Atlantic County Parks and Recreation directly. ## What to Expect The artesian well flows continuously under natural pressure from a depth of nearly 200 feet, so you can expect a steady stream of water year-round. The setting is peaceful and rural, situated near the river at the end of Artesian Well Road within the park's wooded landscape. The road to the well is passable by car, though it is a more rustic park road rather than a main highway. Bring containers if you plan to collect water, and be prepared for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience — this is not a heavily trafficked area of the park. Keep in mind that Atlantic County has stated the water is not considered suitable for human consumption. While many locals have reportedly been drinking from the well for decades, there is no publicly available water quality testing data to confirm its safety. Visitors who wish to collect water should make their own informed decision. Estell Manor Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, so a visit to the artesian well can easily be combined with a broader exploration of this beautiful Pine Barrens park.