Round Valley Boat Launch: Open Or Closed?

Round Valley Reservoir in New Jersey is a popular destination for boating, camping, fishing, and swimming. The reservoir covers 2,350 acres and is about 180 feet deep, making it the second-deepest lake in the state. The Public Boat Launch at Round Valley Reservoir is regulated by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife and requires a permit or license to use. Boaters are responsible for checking weather conditions, including wind speed, prior to launching and while out on the water.

Boating rules and regulations at Round Valley Reservoir

Round Valley Reservoir in New Jersey is a boating, camping, fishing, picnicking, and swimming destination. The reservoir covers 2,350 acres and reaches approximately 180 feet, making it the second-deepest lake in the state and the largest reservoir. The Public Boat Launch at Round Valley Reservoir is located outside of the park and is administered by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife.

• A Boat Ramp Maintenance Permit or a fishing, hunting, or trapping license is required to access the reservoir at the public boat launch. The boat ramp permit can be obtained through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife.
• Sailboats, canoes, kayaks, motor boats (up to 10 horsepower), and three-chambered inflatable vessels are permitted on the reservoir and must be registered through Motor Vehicle if over 12 feet in length.
• A Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) is required for each person on board a watercraft.
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
• Boaters are responsible for checking the weather forecast and monitoring wind speed. If the wind speed reaches or exceeds 25 miles per hour, boating activities must cease, and all boats must leave the water.
• Inflatable boats are required to have at least three separate air chambers.
• Motorized jet skis are not permitted.
• Boaters must comply with all New Jersey State Boating Regulations and are responsible for knowing and obeying all State Park Service and NJ State Police Marine Service regulations.
• There are four wind warning lights located at the north dam, south dam, public boat launch, and the center of the campgrounds. When the sustained wind speed reaches 25+ miles per hour, the lights will flash, and all boaters must clear the reservoir or beach at the nearest shoreline.

Permits and licences required to use the boat launch

The Round Valley Reservoir in New Jersey is open to boating, including motor boating, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Public Boat Launch at Round Valley Reservoir is managed by the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife, and launching is permitted with a current fishing license, hunting license, trapping license, and/or annual boat ramp permit. These permits can be purchased online or at local bait shops.

For unpowered boats like canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, there are two options: register your boat or get a launch permit. A launch permit is a quick and easy way to get your boat on the water, as it only requires some basic information about your boat. You can purchase a permit online and launch right away with a copy of your receipt, or get one in person from an issuing agent. A boat registration, on the other hand, requires an application with more information and cannot be done online. However, registering your boat comes with added benefits, such as it being recognised by other states and receiving renewal reminders.

Location and directions to Round Valley Reservoir

The Round Valley Reservoir is located in Lebanon, New Jersey, US. The reservoir covers 2,350 acres and is approximately 180 feet deep, making it the second-deepest lake and largest reservoir in New Jersey. It is surrounded by the scenic Cushetunk Mountains, which rise 500 feet above the reservoir's shoreline.

To get to the Round Valley Reservoir by car, you can use the following address: 1220 Stanton Lebanon Rd, Lebanon, NJ 08833. The GPS coordinates are 40.63245637, -74.84716597 or 40.622766, -74.854972. The reservoir is accessible from the South Parking Lot, where all four hiking trails (Cushetunk Trail, Family Hike & Bike Trail, Pine Tree Trail, and Water Trail) begin.

If you are planning to camp at the reservoir, please note that the campsites are only accessible by boat or by hiking/mountain biking along the Cushetunk Trail, which is approximately 3 to 6 miles long and rugged. The trail can be challenging, with some ups and downs, so be prepared for a rough hike.

For those driving to the reservoir, there is a large public parking lot available for day use by paddlers. The lot offers year-round bathrooms and is wheelchair accessible.

Boat types permitted on the reservoir

The Round Valley Reservoir is open to traditional motor boating, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Motorboats are limited to 10 horsepower gasoline engines. Sailboats are limited to a mast height of 30 feet above the waterline. Inflatable boats are required to have at least three separate air chambers.

All watercraft must launch from the Public Boat Launch, which has a cartop launch and a trailer launch with ramps and docks. A Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) is required for each person on board a watercraft.

Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the reservoir.

Other activities at Round Valley Reservoir

The Round Valley Reservoir in Clinton Township, New Jersey, is a recreation space for activities like boating, camping, fishing, picnicking, and swimming. Here are some other activities that can be enjoyed at the reservoir:

Camping

The Round Valley Recreation Area is the only New Jersey state park that offers wilderness camping. The campsites are located on the southeastern side of the reservoir and are accessible by backpacking along a steep and rugged trail or by boating. The campground amenities include drinking water spigots near campsites 7 and 77, with other water spigots closed. Restrooms are primitive pit toilets, and showers are not available. Alcohol is prohibited. Campers must check in at the Park Office by 4:00 pm to obtain their permits and prepare for their trek.

Swimming

Swimming is permitted at the Round Valley Swimming Beach during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. The beach complex includes a first-aid station, changing areas, restrooms, showers, and a concession building. Inner tubes, rafts, and other flotation devices are not permitted; only Coast Guard-approved life jackets are allowed.

Bird and Wildlife Viewing

The trails within the park offer excellent opportunities for observing birds and wildlife. Belted kingfishers and blue herons can be spotted along the Beach Promenade, while hiking trails are home to a diverse array of species. Boaters might even spot eagles that reside in the area. Guided bird walks are offered in the autumn, winter, and spring.

Hiking

There are four marked trails at Round Valley: the Cushetunk Trail (red), Family Hike & Bike Trail (white), Pine Tree Trail (green), and Water Trail (blue). All trails offer beautiful scenery and the chance to observe the local flora and fauna. The Cushetunk Trail is particularly challenging, with a rugged, rocky surface and steep sections, making it suitable for experienced hikers.

Scuba Diving and Snorkelling

The Round Valley Reservoir, known for its pristine clear blue waters, is one of the best freshwater lakes in New Jersey for scuba diving and snorkelling. Divers can explore the rich aquatic life and enjoy excellent water clarity. However, scuba diving and snorkelling are currently closed for the 2024 season.

Frequently asked questions