I Visited New Jersey’s ‘Bermuda Triangle’ and It Gave Me Chills

Many national and state parks or recreational areas have an interesting history that can be exciting to explore. One such place in New Jersey is Round Valley Reservoir — otherwise known as the state’s version of the Bermuda Triangle.

The Bermuda Triangle itself is a region in the western part of the North Atlantic Ocean where — supposedly — many ships and aircraft have gone down or disappeared without explanation. This urban legend has become famous enough to scare many people away from traveling in or over that area of the ocean.

Located in Central New Jersey (yes, it does exist!), New Jersey’s “Bermuda Triangle” has a similar story. In fact, there have been countless unexplained disappearances and fatalities within Round Valley Reservoir that have left many visitors and locals disturbed. 

As someone who grew up visiting Round Valley Reservoir, and who now lives within minutes of the recreational site, I’d love to share my experience with New Jersey’s Bermuda Triangle.

Where Is New Jersey’s ‘Bermuda Triangle’?

New Jersey’s Bermuda Triangle is located at Round Valley Reservoir in Clinton, New Jersey. This reservoir carries a deep history and is associated with many eerie legends. Originally, Round Valley was actually a farming community. However, in 1960, the New Jersey Water Authority flooded the valley to construct three large dams.

Many people believe ghosts of those who lived in Round Valley haunt the area today, spending time in the community they once called home. 

Why is Round Valley Considered New Jersey’s Bermuda Triangle?

Round Valley Reservoir is considered New Jersey’s Bermuda Triangle because it’s been the site of many unexplained mysteries, disappearances, and even deaths. In fact, there have been 26 reported disappearances in the area, many of which have yet to be solved. Additionally, back in December 2019, three people were rescued from sinking into waist-deep mud at Round Valley Reservoir.

Many people have disappeared while swimming or kayaking in the reservoir. Some who have escaped their near-death experience at the reservoir reported feeling as though something was pulling them under. This is likely why many people also called the site “Drowned Valley.”

Weird NJ reported more on this legend:

“Several rescue squad members (my sister and mother included) say the story pretty much goes like this: If one body comes up, then another one is going down soon. I can attest to this as one summer (93 or 94) my sister responded to a DOA call at the reservoir. A gentleman in a boat without a motor had his anchor stuck on a larger object. He requested a tow from a powerboat and up popped a missing drowned fisherman fully clothed; his 1990 fishing license was still attached to his vest and get this, his sunglasses were still on. Well, guess what happens next––three days later two canoeists are paddling around together when one decides to cool off and jumps in. He never came up! He jumped in and never resurfaced. He’s still missing to this day.”

Mark Moran

As a result of all these strange occurrences, many people call Round Valley Reservoir New Jersey’s version of the Bermuda Triangle.

My Visits to Round Valley Reservoir

I’ve been going to Valley Reservoir since I was a kid. My grandparents would often take me there hiking or for picnics during warmer months. It’s always had a bit of an eerie feeling — even before I knew about its history.

Recently, I moved to the area and began taking regular trips to Round Valley Reservoir. One thing I’ve noticed while trekking the area is there is always a sinister aura you can’t deny. While the reservoir is often packed with people, especially during the summer, it gives off an air of mystery. Even under the hot summer sun, I still get the chills when looking at the deep reservoir. Oftentimes, I picture the farming community that once existed below and feel heartbroken for those families.

Visiting Round Valley Reservoir almost feels as though someone is watching you. In fact, I have spoken to quite a few visitors while spending time at Round Valley. Many have recalled their own paranormal experiences and sightings. 

As a child, my mother ventured out onto the water with her dad (my grandpa) one morning. Within minutes of doing so, a random storm blew through the area, whisking them further away from shore. Thankfully, they were able to survive the storm, but it was a struggle for them. Once they made it safely to shore, the clouds suddenly cleared, and the sun was out again. This is actually a common occurrence that many different visitors have recalled.

While many of its mysteries remain unsolved, Round Valley Reservoir continues to live up to its name as New Jersey’s Bermuda Triangle.