Top 8 Lakes around Old Tappan

Lake Tappan is a large, serene reservoir that is a vital part of the region's water supply, spanning approximately 1,255 acres. It's known for its deep blue, ultra-clear water and surrounding forested landscape, offering a tranquil retreat and prime fishing opportunities. The road runs directly next to Lake Tappan, providing excellent views.

Yes, several lakes in the area are considered family-friendly. Wild Duck Pond is a lovely park area where families can relax, have picnics, and observe local wildlife like ducks and turtles. Lake Tappan also offers scenic views that families can enjoy from the roadside.

The lakes, particularly Lake Tappan, are important habitats for diverse wildlife. You can observe various birds, including wintering waterfowl like Common Mergansers, and thousands of Ring-billed Gulls. Notably, wintering Bald Eagles are also present, with up to 20 individuals observed in some years. The surrounding forests support migrating landbirds, and at Wild Duck Pond, you might spot ducks, turtles, and other local birds.

Visiting in late June is suggested to experience the sun's golden rays on the water and observe vibrant wildlife. The fall season also offers beautiful foliage around the lakes. For birdwatching, winter is ideal, especially for spotting Bald Eagles and various waterfowl.

Yes, Lake Tappan is renowned as a prime fishing spot. Anglers can expect to catch a diverse range of fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, carp, and various types of perch and sunfish. Public access for fishing is often available through programs managed by Suez North America, sometimes for a nominal fee.

Lake Tappan is suitable for boating and kayaking, offering opportunities for peaceful paddling. A full-service marina and boat rentals are reportedly available, enhancing its appeal for water sports enthusiasts. Public access to the watershed property for activities like boating is managed by Suez North America.

Oradell Reservoir is an important source of clean drinking water for approximately 750,000 people. It is protected as a Category 1 water source, known for its purity, and is a critical part of the region’s infrastructure. While it's beautiful, direct access to the shore for rest is generally not possible due to its protected status.

Yes, the area around the lakes offers various trails. The watershed area around Lake Tappan features cleared, marked, and mapped hiking trails. For specific routes, you can explore guides like the Easy hikes around Old Tappan, which includes trails like the Joseph B. Clarke Rail-Trail.

While lakes like Lake Tappan are owned and managed by Suez North America as public water supplies, the company does have a program that provides public access to the watershed property for activities such as fishing and hiking. This access often requires a nominal fee, and information kiosks are available on-site.

Wild Duck Pond is a popular spot for a peaceful break, where you can unwind by the water, watch local wildlife, or enjoy a picnic. The tranquil surroundings of Lake Tappan also offer a serene environment for relaxation, with excellent views available from the roadside.

Yes, there are several routes suitable for longer walks or runs. For instance, the Running Trails around Old Tappan guide features routes like the Lake Tappan loop from Westwood, which is approximately 9.9 km long, and the Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail loop from Tappan, at about 12 km.

Some areas around the lakes are dog-friendly. For example, Wild Duck Pond is noted as dog-friendly, offering a nice area for walks with your pet. Always check local regulations and signage for specific trails and lake access points regarding pets.

Yes, the road running directly next to Lake Tappan provides excellent views of the reservoir. Additionally, Lake Shore Drive offers a lovely car-free stretch along the water with scenic vistas.