Top 5 Lakes around Riverdale

The Riverdale area in New Jersey is known for its diverse aquatic environments, featuring a mix of man-made lakes, reservoirs, and private lake communities. You'll find opportunities for fishing, paddling, and scenic viewpoints, often surrounded by natural preserves and forests.

While some lakes like Ramapo Lake are popular for anglers and paddlers, swimming is prohibited there. However, nearby public options like Oakwood Lake in Bloomingdale offer a pleasant area for walking and potentially other activities, and private lakes like Glen Wild Lake and Kampfe Lake (in Bloomingdale) are known for clean water and swimming for residents.

Pompton Lake is a significant 175-acre man-made lake on the Ramapo River, popular for boating and fishing, with various species like largemouth bass and trout. Ramapo Lake and Butler Reservoir are also favored spots for anglers and paddlers, offering picturesque surroundings and clean water.

Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. For instance, the Orange Trail leads along the western side of Taylortown Reservoir in Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area. The red trail also circles Butler Reservoir. You can find more trails, including easy hikes like the Pequannock Valley Park Lake Loop and moderate ones like the Pool Hollow, Ramapo Lake and Cannonball Loop, in the Hiking around Riverdale guide.

Ramapo Lake provides spectacular views over the water and surrounding rock formations. The area around Quiet rolling hills along a few scenic reservoirs, including the Stonetown Dam between Monksville and Wanaque Reservoir, also offers pleasant vistas, especially when foliage is lighter.

Many lakes in the region are suitable for families, offering opportunities for gentle walks and enjoying nature. Ramapo Lake and Taylortown Reservoir are both categorized as family-friendly highlights, providing beautiful natural settings for a day out.

The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but for the best scenic views, visiting when the foliage is lighter (early spring or late fall) can enhance visibility, especially around reservoirs like Wanaque Reservoir. Summer offers warmer weather for water activities where permitted, while the fall brings vibrant colors to the surrounding forests.

Yes, several running trails are available. You can explore routes like the LeGrande Loop Trail, the Wanaque Ridge Trail Loop, or the Ramapo Lake loop. More options are detailed in the Running Trails around Riverdale guide.

While specific crowd levels vary, exploring the trails around Taylortown Reservoir within the Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area might offer a more serene experience. Additionally, some of the smaller, private lake communities in nearby Bloomingdale, such as Glen Wild Lake or Kampfe Lake, offer a quiet atmosphere, though access is typically restricted to residents.

Oakwood Lake in Bloomingdale, adjacent to Riverdale, is a public lake that features a dock for fishing and a pleasant area suitable for walking around its perimeter.

Visitors frequently appreciate the spectacular views, the opportunities for angling and paddling, and the beautiful natural surroundings. The region's mix of man-made lakes and reservoirs, often nestled within rolling hills and forests, provides a peaceful escape and a variety of outdoor activities.