Top 16 Lakes around Wanaque

The lakes around Wanaque are set within a landscape of forested hills, offering diverse natural features. You can find spectacular views over water and surrounding rock formations at places like Ramapo Lake. The Monksville Reservoir area, for instance, features undeveloped, forested shores and a unique flooded standing forest where you can paddle between weathered tree trunks.

Yes, several spots offer notable views. The Monksville Dam provides great views over Monksville Reservoir and the surrounding hills. The Wanaque Reservoir also has scenic viewpoints, particularly during seasons when foliage is less dense. Ramapo Lake is known for its spectacular views over the water and rock formations.

Visiting in the fall is particularly rewarding due to the stunning fall foliage around lakes like Monksville Reservoir. Early mornings are often recommended for scenic views at Wanaque Reservoir when traffic is lighter. Generally, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and paddling.

Yes, the Monksville Reservoir is a popular spot for water-based recreation. It's open to paddle boats, sailboats, and power boats under 10 horsepower, making it ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Rentals and lessons are often available on-site. Swimming is generally prohibited in most lakes, including Ramapo Lake.

The Monksville Reservoir is highly regarded by anglers for its diverse fish population, including trophy-sized muskellunge, walleye, bass, and trout. Ramapo Lake is also a popular spot for anglers. While the Wanaque Reservoir contains various fish species, direct recreational access for fishing can be heavily regulated or restricted due to its primary role as a water supply.

Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. The Monksville Reservoir is located within Long Pond Ironworks State Park, offering trails like the Monks Trail Circular. You can find various hiking routes around the Wanaque area, including the Wyanokie Circular Loop Trail and trails leading to Ramapo Lake. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Wanaque guide.

Many areas around the lakes offer family-friendly options. Highlights like Ramapo Lake and MacMillan Reservoir Dam are categorized as family-friendly. When planning, look for trails with moderate difficulty and shorter distances, such as those found in the Hiking around Wanaque guide.

Beyond hiking and water sports, the area around Wanaque's lakes offers opportunities for cycling and running. You can find various cycling routes, including those with views of Franklin Lake or loops around Ringwood State Park, in the Cycling around Wanaque guide. Running enthusiasts can explore trails like the LeGrande Loop Trail or the Wanaque Ridge Trail Loop, detailed in the Running Trails around Wanaque guide.

The Wanaque Reservoir is primarily a vital drinking water supply for over 3 million people, so recreational uses are strictly regulated for public safety. While direct access to the water is generally restricted, surrounding parks and hiking trails offer picturesque views of the reservoir. The West Brook Road Bridge Viaduct also provides views and access to the complex.

Yes, Lake Iosco is a private lake community located in Bloomingdale, adjacent to the Wanaque Reservoir. Access to Lake Iosco is restricted to residents and their guests, primarily for activities like fishing, swimming, and boating.

While specific regulations can vary, many state and county parks in the Wanaque area that encompass these lakes generally allow dogs on trails, often requiring them to be leashed. It's always best to check the specific rules for each park or trail before visiting with your dog.

The MacMillan Reservoir Dam is a man-made monument, spanning about 250 feet long and rising 20 feet tall. It's constructed of concrete faced with stone and holds back the reservoir's contents. It's located in the Ramapo Valley County Reservation and is considered a family-friendly spot.

Taylortown Reservoir is a public water supply system owned by the town of Boonton. It's known for its beautiful surrounding nature and the Orange Trail that runs along its western side, making it a nice spot to visit within the Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area.