Swartswood Lake, Lake in New Jersey, USA
Swartswood Lake is a large reservoir in New Jersey surrounded by wooded hills and clear water. The area includes a sandy beach, grassy picnic spaces, and connected smaller lakes, with only electric boats allowed to maintain the peaceful setting.
The land was acquired for public use in 1914 and has since been a place for fishing, boating, and recreation. A historic grist mill from the 1800s built with local stone stands nearby, reflecting the region's farming past.
The lake's name comes from early settlers in the area, and it has long been a gathering place for families across generations. Fishing and boating traditions remain central to how people experience and use the water today.
The lake is easily accessible by car with parking at several locations around the grounds. The park is open during daylight hours with picnic areas, restrooms, and designated boat launch spots for visitors of all levels.
The lake is home to diverse plant life including water lilies, cattails, and pickerel rush in the shallow areas, studied by botanists for their ecological value. The nearby Peters Valley School of Craft offers pottery, glassmaking, and woodworking classes in this remote artistic setting.
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