The trails will also lead you to the very impressive ruins of Foxcroft, a mansion that was built on top of one of the hills in the area but was unfortunately destroyed due to a fire. There are a variety of trails snaking their way around the lake, with a few spots that offer spectacular views of the New York City skyline. The lake itself offers opportunities to fish and bird-watch, however swimming is not allowed. Camping, hiking, hunting, canoeing, cross-country skiing and mountain biking. Located within Ramapo Mountain State Forest, this lake and state forest offers it all. However lake access was not allowed to the filmmakers, so they were forced to use a stand in lake for shots that were meant to be Green Pond. In 2003 The Station Agent, an indie film, was filmed in the area of Green Pond and surrounding communities. The area is also known for its mining history with a handful of mines in close proximity to the lake and surrounding area. It gain access to the lake you must known someone who resides on the lakeshore as the community has claimed responsibility for protecting the lake and its assets. Looking for crystal clear waters to enjoy in the depths of New Jersey? Check out Green Pond, which, despite it’s name, is quite clear due to an underground spring the feeds the lake. Since the mid 20th century, efforts have been made to clean up the lake and make it safer for people and more habitable for fish and other animals. Since then, the area around it has developed as a prominent suburb of New York City. Deal Lakeĭeal Lake was originally constructed when an inlet connected to the Atlantic Ocean was purposefully blocked to create a handful of lakes and ponds in the area. It is privately owned, however fishing and ice skating and encouraged as well as picnicking along the shores. The lake continues to be home to the Princeton University crew team and is also home to the US Olympic Rowing Team. In time, he eventually acquired enough land and began to construct the dam and bridges needed to created the blissful lake. Andrew Carnegie, the American industrialist, bought the farm land in the area after hearing the the Princeton crew team needed a safe place to practice. Located alongside Princeton University in Princeton, New Jersey, Lake Carnegie is a man made lake constructed solely for the usage of the Princeton University rowing team. Lake Carnegie has an interesting a rich history. With five different hiking trails criss-crossing through the park, there is sure to be something for your pace and skill level. If you are looking to learn a little bit about the flora and fauna of the area, be sure to check out the park’s environmental center. With over a million visitors a year this is one of New Jersey’s busiest lakes. This place could keep you entertained for days if need be. It advertises fishing, boating, swimming, beaches, and miles of trails for walk, running, biking, and horses alike. Manasquan Reservoir is truly a multi-use recreational area.

The area was known for its ironworks as the fledgling United States was just emerging as a country in the 18th century. The majority of the surrounding area is managed by the Long Pond Ironworks State Park. There is a small shop on the south launch of the reservoir that offers kayak and paddleboard rentals.

With two boat launches, one on the north side and one on the south side, this reservoir is easy to access for boats of all sizes. Sitting on top of the now defunct township of Monksville, this reservoir was created in 1985 and is known for is excellent fishing. Located at the south end of the pond, the park offers access to fishing, boating, and swimming. One of the main features of this beautiful lake is the Lake Hopatcong State Park which is open year round for visitors looking to take advantage of all that the lake has to offer. It is lined with residential homes, but there are also a few resorts for those visiting to take advantage of.

Located just 40 miles from New York City, this is a popular summer destination for those looking to get away from the city heat. With about four square miles of lake surface, this is the largest freshwater body in the state of New Jersey. Lets have a look at the best lakes to visit in New Jersey: 1. From the lakes in the north with close proximity to New York City, all the way to southern Jersey where lakes are nestled in national forests surrounding by silent campsites. Though New Jersey might not be the first place you think of when you consider great states for visiting lakes, it does in fact offer a variety of options that are both clear and ready to be explored.

Hidden lake nj