Mullica Township

Spanning more than 56 square miles within the New Jersey Pinelands, Mullica Township is one of Atlantic County's most rural municipalities. The township includes the communities of Elwood, Nesco, and Sweetwater, along with a number of smaller rural neighborhoods and historic place names spread throughout its expansive landscape.

The township was incorporated on March 13, 1838, by an act of the New Jersey Legislature, formed from the western section of Galloway Township. It was named after Eric Pålsson Mullica, an early Swedish settler (1636–1705) who founded a homestead on the Mullica River after relocating from the Philadelphia area. The river and the township both carry his name.

Unlike the Jersey Shore beach towns along the coast, Mullica Township offers a quieter, more spread-out living experience with a mix of agricultural land, Pine Barrens forests, and residential communities. The township sits within the Pinelands National Reserve, giving residents access to one of New Jersey's most unique natural landscapes with miles of forests, wetlands, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Communities

Elwood

Elwood is the largest principal community within Mullica Township and serves as the commercial, civic, and government center of the township. The Mullica Township Municipal Building is located at 4528 South White Horse Pike in the Elwood CDP, and the township's public schools (Mullica Township Elementary School and Mullica Township Middle School) are located at 500 Elwood Road, also within the Elwood census-designated place. Elwood offers a small-town atmosphere and is conveniently located near the Garden State Parkway, providing easy access to the Jersey Shore and Atlantic City.

Nesco

Nesco is a quiet residential community within Mullica Township centered around Lake Nescochague, a natural lake within the community. The Nescochague Lake Association is based on Nesco Road. Nesco offers a peaceful, rural living environment surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pinelands.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater is a historic and scenic area located along the Mullica River, known for its boating, kayaking, and waterfront recreation. The Sweetwater Marina & Riverdeck (formerly Sweetwater Casino) sits on the riverfront and offers dockage, fueling, boat services, dining, and event space. Despite its historic "Casino" name dating back to the 1920s Prohibition era, Sweetwater Casino was never a gambling casino; it originated as a speakeasy and later became a celebrated South Jersey riverfront restaurant and banquet venue. The original building was destroyed by fire in 2008, and the property was redeveloped and reopened as Sweetwater Marina & Riverdeck in 2016. The area has deep historical roots in the region's early settlement and logging industries.

Other Communities

In addition to the three principal communities, Mullica Township contains a number of smaller unincorporated communities and historic place names, including Amatol, Da Costa, Devonshire, East Hammonton, Indian Cabin, New Columbia, Pleasant Mills, Speedway, Weekstown, Wescoatville, and West Egg Harbor.

What Makes Mullica Township Special

Mullica Township is known for its agricultural heritage, with blueberry farming and other agricultural operations playing an important role in the local economy. The township's rural character, larger lot sizes, and proximity to both the Garden State Parkway and the Pinelands make it appealing to buyers seeking space, privacy, and a connection to nature while still being within reach of the Jersey Shore and Atlantic City.

The township operates its own municipal government and services. Mullica Township is served by the Mullica Township School District, which operates Mullica Township Elementary School (Pre-K through grade 4) and Mullica Township Middle School (grades 5 through 8). For high school, students attend Cedar Creek High School in Egg Harbor City as part of the Greater Egg Harbor Regional High School District.

With a population of approximately 5,800 residents (2020 U.S. Census: 5,816), Mullica Township offers a distinctive alternative to the denser shore communities. It combines rural charm, natural beauty, and convenient access to everything South Jersey has to offer.