Boat, Fish, and Visit the Red Mill Museum Together
Why Rent On Spruce Run Reservoir
Spruce Run Reservoir spreads 1,290 acres across Hunterdon County in western New Jersey, with 15 miles of shoreline that wind through a recreation area designed for families who want more than a day trip. Completed in 1965, this is a mature and well-managed destination where sailing, kayaking, trout fishing, and bass fishing coexist comfortably with picnicking, camping, and long afternoon walks through the surrounding parkland.
On the Water All Day
The reservoir’s open water is well-suited for sailing and kayaking, and the varied coves along its 15-mile shoreline give paddlers new terrain to cover each morning. Trout, largemouth bass, and a variety of panfish keep anglers busy throughout the season, and the designated picnic areas near the water are well-positioned for lunch breaks that stretch into the afternoon without anyone complaining.
The Red Mill and Hunterdon’s History
The Red Mill Museum Village in Clinton is one of New Jersey’s most beloved historic destinations, a beautifully preserved 19th-century grist mill perched over the Raritan River with exhibits and demonstrations that make the area’s industrial past genuinely compelling for curious families. The Hunterdon Art Museum in the same building complex adds a contemporary layer to a historically rich afternoon.
Trails Through the Highlands
The Columbia Trail, converted from an abandoned railroad bed, runs through the reservoir area and into the surrounding countryside on a gentle, family-friendly grade that is ideal for cyclists and walkers who want to cover real ground without serious elevation. The Highlands Trail passes through Spruce Run Recreation Area as well, connecting the lake to a larger network of backcountry terrain for families who want longer hikes.
A Vacation Home in New Jersey’s Quietest Corner
A lakefront vacation rental near Spruce Run Reservoir gives your family the full benefit of Hunterdon County’s remarkable landscape without the noise and interruption of a hotel’s shared spaces. Properties with lake views, full kitchens, and outdoor dining areas are well-suited to groups of four to twelve who want to cook the catch, watch the sunset, and wake up the next morning already at the water’s edge.
- Surface area (mi)
- 324.36
- Max depth (ft)
- 75
- Elevation (ft)
- 269.03
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 15
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Spruce Run Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming is not currently allowed in Spruce Run Reservoir. The designated swimming beach is closed for the 2025 season due to harmful algal blooms and related water safety concerns.
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Spruce Run Reservoir is a popular destination because it offers various recreational activities. It is used for fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking, with amenities like picnic areas and camping sites. The reservoir also provides opportunities for bird watching, nature study, and hunting in season.
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For fishing in Spruce Run Reservoir in New Jersey, the size and daily catch limits vary by species. For trout, the minimum size is 15 inches and the daily limit is one trout per angler.
For largemouth and smallmouth bass, from April 15 to June 15, it is catch and release only, and from June 16 to December 31, there are specific size and creel limits.
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There is a public beach at Spruce Run Reservoir, but it is closed for the 2025 season. The beach area is currently not available due to ongoing closures. The recreation area still offers other activities like hiking, bird watching, and camping.
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Towns near Spruce Run Reservoir include Hackettstown, Phillipsburg, and Clinton. These towns are located in close proximity to the recreation area in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Phillipsburg is about 16 miles east, while Clinton is just 5 miles away.
