Top 7 Lakes around Newburgh
Best lakes around Newburgh, New York, offers a variety of natural and man-made water bodies. The region features significant lakes like Orange Lake, the largest entirely within Orange County, and reservoirs such as Chadwick Lake and Lake Washington. These areas provide diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities for visitors. The geography includes woodlands, cliffs, and open water, characteristic of the Hudson Valley.
Best lakes around Newburgh
- The most popular lakes is Gormire Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by lush…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Gormire Lake
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Gormire Lake and Garbutt Wood Nature Reserve
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Lower Fish Pond
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Higher Fish Pond, Yearsley Woods
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Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; …
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Nettle Dale ponds
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Tips from the Community
Gormire Lake is a natural lowland lake that lies at the foot of Whitestone Cliff, a western escarpment of the Hambleton Hills
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Meaning "filthy swamp", there are many local legends and myths surrounding this lake, such as it is bottomless (it is 6.5m deep) and was created by an earthquake that swallowed a village resulting in the lake today (it is a glacial lake).
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The public footpath down to the nature reserve from the Cleveland Way (at the location on OS maps marked as "Great Relief Pot") is reasonably steep, but can be very narrow in places with short wooden planks driven into the ground along the downward side of the path, presumably to prevent the path from eroding and collapsing. In other places there are plenty of stones and tree roots to help stabilise your ascent/descent. As you approach Gormire Lake look out for a very curious and quite large boulder that is almost an 8-10 foot high perfect cube. The nature reserve consists of ancient woodland and is very peaceful. Easy to access the water's edge at Gormire Lake.
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Cleveland Way runs the length of the southern side of this chain of lakes, but there is a short bridleway to the north of the westernmost edge of the lakes, which takes you up a climb to Dick Wood, just east of Old Byland. Lots of waterfowl and ducks.
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This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed (thus easy to run on). On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
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This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to jog your way up to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
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This is one fabulous place to be: a very picturesque and beautiful little lake, with little piers on its banks in a few places. The tracks and paths around it are well-managed, not to mention the swans. On a sunny day, the waters get amazingly blue colours and the scene is truly Impressionistic!
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This is a lovely little lake in Yearsley Woods to walk to. Note, all the maps I've seen show two ponds here - however, only this one remains in reality; the other one has been drained since and is essentially a marshland now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent lakes in the Newburgh area?
The Newburgh area features several significant lakes, including Orange Lake, which is the largest entirely within Orange County, Chadwick Lake, known for its recreational facilities, and Lake Washington, the primary reservoir for the City of Newburgh.
What historical significance does Orange Lake hold?
Orange Lake has a rich history, having been a popular site for mills, notably the Newburgh Bleachery. In the 19th century, it became a favored location for summer cottages, and trolley service in 1895 made it a popular and accessible stop. An historical marker on Lakeside Road commemorates Machin's Mill, one of its early names. You can learn more about its history on Wikipedia.
What recreational activities are available at Chadwick Lake?
Chadwick Lake Park offers a wide range of activities. Visitors can enjoy over four miles of hiking and biking trails with scenic lake views, boating, and fishing for largemouth bass. The park also features a large playground, three rentable pavilions, basketball courts, and a roller rink. Ice skating is available seasonally. More details can be found on the Town of Newburgh website.
Are there family-friendly options among the lakes near Newburgh?
Yes, Chadwick Lake Park is highly regarded for its diverse range of activities suitable for all ages. It features a large playground, hiking trails, and opportunities for boating and fishing, making it a comprehensive destination for family outdoor recreation.
Can I go hiking or walking around the lakes?
Chadwick Lake Park offers over four miles of dedicated hiking and biking trails with scenic views of the lake. While Lake Washington is primarily a reservoir, Masterson Park near its spillway provides public amenities and picnic grounds for relaxation.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted at Chadwick Lake?
Chadwick Lake is home to various wildlife, including geese, swans, and even bald eagles, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Is there public access and amenities at Lake Washington?
While Lake Washington serves as the primary reservoir for the City of Newburgh, public recreational facilities, including picnic grounds, are accessible at Masterson Park, located near the reservoir's spillway. For more information, you can visit its Wikipedia page.
Are there affordable options for visiting Chadwick Lake Park?
Yes, Chadwick Lake Park is known for its affordability, offering impressively low annual membership fees for both residents and non-residents, as well as day passes, making it an accessible option for outdoor recreation.
What makes Orange Lake unique in the region?
Orange Lake is notable for being the largest lake entirely within Orange County, spanning 400 acres. Its size and historical significance as a popular site for mills and summer cottages contribute to its unique charm.
What are the best times to visit the lakes around Newburgh for outdoor activities?
The lakes around Newburgh offer activities year-round. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and biking on trails like those at Chadwick Lake, enjoying comfortable temperatures and scenic foliage. Summer is perfect for boating and fishing, while winter allows for ice skating at Chadwick Lake when conditions permit.
Are there any specific regulations for boating or fishing on these lakes?
For Chadwick Lake, boating and fishing are permitted, with fishing for largemouth bass being a common activity. Specific regulations, such as permits or boat types, are typically managed by the Town of Newburgh Parks and Recreation Department. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information.
Can I find picnic areas near the lakes?
Yes, Chadwick Lake Park provides three rentable pavilions suitable for picnics and gatherings. Additionally, Masterson Park, located near Lake Washington's spillway, offers public picnic grounds for visitors.
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