Greenwood Lake Fishing, Size, Depth, And More

Greenwood Lake is an interstate lake that stretches for approximately seven miles, straddling the border of New York and New Jersey. It is located in the Town of Warwick and the Village of Greenwood Lake, New York (in Orange County) and West Milford, New Jersey (in Passaic County). The lake is a significant water body in the area, serving as the source of the Wanaque River. Let’s dive into what makes it so interesting. Here’s some background information and why you should take a trip to experience this lake.

Location

Greenwood Lake crosses two states, New York and New Jersey, giving it an interstate status. It is situated in Orange County’s Town of Warwick and the village of Greenwood Lake. On the New Jersey side, it is part of West Milford in Passaic County. This positioning offers diverse experiences depending on which side of the lake you choose to visit.

History

The history of Greenwood Lake traces back to the Munsee Native Americans, who were the area’s original inhabitants, calling the lake “Quampium.” The lake was later renamed “Long Pond” by European settlers in the 18th century, who established farming and ironmaking in the area. The name Greenwood Lake was adopted eventually.

Over the centuries, the lake has been dammed multiple times to increase its size for water power used downstream at the Long Pond Ironworks and to supply water to the Pompton Feeder of the Morris Canal. The 19th century began its resort era, attracting tourists and steamboats for transportation.

The 20th century saw the increasing popularity of Greenwood Lake as a summer destination with the construction of the West Shore Railroad Line in 1903. The lake was also used for recreational activities, including swimming, sailing, and fishing.

The lake has also been home to many important people, such as the Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, who built a house on its banks; former President Chester A. Arthur, who visited in 1883; and the former New Jersey Governor Richard J. Hughes, who had a summer home near the lake.

Today

Greenwood Lake continues to be an important source of water for recreational activities and drinking water for nearby communities. Both state governments now manage the lake, with several municipal parks providing access to beaches and waterfront activities.

Greenwood Lake remains a popular destination for vacationers of all ages, enjoying its scenic views and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can choose from various shoreline experiences such as swimming, fishing, camping, boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and more. There are also several restaurants around the lake with unique waterfront dining experiences.

Size

Greenwood Lake is a substantial water body with a surface area of 1,918 acres. It straddles across two states, adding to its size and significance in the region. The average depth of Greenwood Lake is about 17 feet, with the maximum depth reaching up to 57 feet. This depth variation provides diverse habitats for various fish species and offers different experiences for boaters and swimmers.

Water Level

Data on the lake’s water level has been recorded since 1983. You can access the current lake conditions, including the gage height and water surface elevation, through the USGS water data platform. The lake’s water level is also regulated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, which operates two dams; one on the New Jersey side and the other in Orange County. These two structures are important for controlling flooding and keeping the lake safe. This is especially important for the lake’s surrounding communities in a floodplain.

Fishing

Greenwood Lake is a popular spot for fishing, with various fish species inhabiting its waters. Some of the common fish species include largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, and other panfish. The lake is also stocked annually with pure strain and tiger muskellunge so that you can catch a trophy Musky. However, it’s worth noting that the shoreline of this lake is private, and you need boat access through the private marinas.

Geology

I’m sorry, but I couldn’t find specific information on the geology of Greenwood Lake. The sources available were either inaccessible or didn’t provide the necessary information. This is an area that may require further research. The lake is in the Highlands Region of New Jersey, part of the Appalachian mountain system. This indicates an influence from the underlying bedrock composition, sedimentary deposits, and other geological features.

Boating and Other Activities

Boating is a popular activity on Greenwood Lake, with several marinas available. In addition to boating, there are lakeside restaurants with docks, providing a unique dining experience. The lake also features a seaplane area, adding to the diverse range of activities one can enjoy at Greenwood Lake. You can also take advantage of the lake’s ample shoreline to take a stroll or relax and watch the sunset.

Camping at Greenwood Lake

While no campgrounds are directly on Greenwood Lake, nearby camping options exist for visitors looking to spend time there.

Wawayanda State Park

Wawayanda State Park in New Jersey offers camping facilities near Greenwood Lake. The park welcomes pets, but they must remain on a leash and be cleaned up after. The park features a swimming beach, boat launch ramp, kayak rentals, playground, picnic tables, grills, ball fields, volleyball court, biking trails, hiking, and group campsites.

Black Bear Campground

Black Bear Campground is located near Hewitt, New Jersey, and offers tent and RV sites. The campsite features a heated pool, playground, game room, general store, fishing pond, bathhouse with hot showers, laundry facilities, K9 area for pet owners to exercise their dogs, and numerous other amenities.

Sterling Forest State Park

Sterling Forest State Park is in New York, across from Greenwood Lake. The park features more than 27 miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic sites. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, bird watching, and horseback riding at the park.

Kittatinny Canoes

Kittatinny Canoes offers camping trips and rentals at its three locations, which are located within 30 minutes of Greenwood Lake. The company provides canoes, kayaks, rafts, and tubes for use on the Delaware River and other nearby waterways.

Overall, plenty of camping opportunities near Greenwood Lake provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors and explore the area. Whether you’re looking for an RV site, cabin rental, or a place to pitch your tent, there are plenty of camping options.

Where is Greenwood Lake Located on a Map?

Greenwood Lake is located on the border of New York and New Jersey, straddling the Town of Warwick and the Village of Greenwood Lake in New York’s Orange County, and West Milford in New Jersey’s Passaic County. It’s a significant feature in the region, appearing prominently on maps of the area. If you plan to visit, a detailed map of Greenwood Lake can help you find everything from food and accommodation to various tourist destinations. The street map of Greenwood Lake provides a comprehensive outline of the surrounding area, while a satellite view offers a more precise image of the location​.

Conclusion

Greenwood Lake, NY, is a great destination for visitors looking to experience the outdoors. With its abundance of fish, boating marinas, and nearby camping facilities, Greenwood Lake has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking to catch trophy muskies or soak up the sunshine on the lake, you’ll find plenty of enjoyable activities at Greenwood Lake.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Ezume Images/Shutterstock.com