Kayak Jade-Clear Water and Hike Silas Condict Park Together
Why Rent On Lake Kinnelon
Lake Kinnelon sits in the Morris County Highlands community of Kinnelon, New Jersey, in a wooded residential setting that is defined by its proximity to some of the most interesting natural and historical landscapes in northern New Jersey. The lake itself is the quiet center of a community whose surrounding resources, including Ramapo Lake, the Van Slyke Castle Ruins, and the Hawkwatch Overlook at Tourne County Park, give any stay here a range of activity that extends well beyond the water.
Paddling and Angling Near Ramapo Lake
Ramapo Lake, a short distance from Lake Kinnelon within Ramapo Mountain State Forest, offers spectacular highland scenery and excellent paddling and fishing access in a landscape that feels genuinely remote despite its proximity to Route 23. The forested ridges surrounding Ramapo Lake are among the most rewarding hiking terrain in northern New Jersey, with views that extend across the Highlands on clear days.
The Van Slyke Castle Ruins
The Van Slyke Castle Ruins, the remains of a 20th-century mansion built by stockbroker William Porter on a hilltop above Kinnelon, are one of those local landmarks that generate exactly the kind of curiosity and mild disbelief that makes exploring a new area genuinely enjoyable. The stone walls, towers, and terraces rising from the forest floor reward the moderate hike required to reach them.
Tourne Park and Migratory Bird Season
Tourne County Park’s Hawkwatch Overlook is an exceptional destination during fall and spring migration, when thousands of raptors and songbirds move through the Highlands ridges and the rocky overlook above Tourne provides a front-row position for observation. The Wildflower Trail loop at Tourne is a short, easy walk well-suited to younger children and grandparents who want natural beauty without a challenging grade.
A Wooded Morris County Lake Stay
A vacation home near Lake Kinnelon gives your family a peaceful, forested base in the Morris County Highlands with exceptional access to natural and historical resources. Properties with lake views, full kitchens, and outdoor space for wildlife-watching mornings are well-suited to families who want the full Highlands experience from a comfortable and private home base.
- Surface area (mi)
- 0.3
- Max depth (ft)
- 14.01
Popular activities
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Kinnelon has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are specific rules and hours for swimming in Lake Kinnelon. Swimming is only allowed when lifeguards are on duty, and swimmers must stay within designated areas. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and may need to pass a swimming test to access certain docks.
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Lake Kinnelon is a popular destination because it offers scenic views and outdoor activities. It is part of a park with hiking trails, lawns, and covered picnic areas, and it is close to other attractions like the Ramapo Mountains and the private community of Smoke Rise.
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There are specific regulations for fishing in New Jersey, but they are not lake-specific. To fish in any freshwater lake in New Jersey, including Lake Kinnelon, you need a valid New Jersey fishing license and, for trout or salmon, a trout stamp if you are between 16 and 70 years old. You must also follow daily creel limits and size restrictions.
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The beaches at Lake Kinnelon are mostly private. For example, the Fayson Lakes Association and Lake Reality Homeowners Association offer beach access only to their members. However, there are no public beaches specifically at Lake Kinnelon itself, but nearby public beaches can be found in other areas like Ringwood State Park.
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Towns near Lake Kinnelon include Butler, Bloomingdale, and Riverdale. These towns are all within a few miles of Kinnelon, New Jersey. Butler is about 1.34 miles away, Bloomingdale is about 2.12 miles away, and Riverdale is approximately 3.36 miles away.
