First things first…I love the shore. It’s certainly one of my favorite things about living in New Jersey and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. From Sandy Hook to Cape May, I’d take the Jersey Shore over the California Coast any day. (Our water is much warmer in the summer, and often cleaner!) I’m also an ocean girl more than a lake girl but every now and again, I enjoy a day at the lake. I’m a big fan of Lewis Morris Park and Atsion but when I’m craving shore vibes without spending hours in traffic, Round Valley Reservoir is my pick. Here’s why…
For starters, this lake has the clearest, bluest waters in New Jersey.
Jeff Doulhy/Flickr
Just look at it! It’s also the deepest lake (depths up to 180 feet) and largest reservoir in the state.
Deathworm/Wikipedia
It’s a popular scuba diving destination, and there are ruins of a flooded town under the surface.
Rachel Newstadt/Flickr
Visitors can also enjoy swimming, boating, water sports, picnicking, fishing, hiking, and camping.
Todd Dietrich/Flickr
Though not the Jersey Shore, it offers sandy shores and cool water - all you need on a hot summer day.
Deathworm/Wikipedia
To top it all off, there are two playgrounds and volleyball nets on the beachfront. You’re in for a day of fun on and in the water! To learn more about the story behind Round Valley Reservoir, check out this article. Let us know your favorite swimming lake in the comments!
Jeff Doulhy/Flickr
Deathworm/Wikipedia
Rachel Newstadt/Flickr
Todd Dietrich/Flickr
Hours:
November – February: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. March: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 1 through the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Monday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Tuesday after Labor Day through September 30: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. October: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address:
1220 Lebanon-Stanton Road, Lebanon, NJ, 08833
Don’t miss the incredible video below featuring aerial footage of the reservoir. It’s truly breathtaking.
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