Surrounded by the rolling hills of Hunterdon County, Spruce Run Recreation Area is popular with picnickers, swimmers, fishermen, boaters and campers. The reservoir was one of the first water supply facilities to be constructed and operated by the state and covers 1,290 acres with 15 miles of shoreline for recreation. Spruce Run is the third largest reservoir in the state after Round Valley and Wanaque reservoirs.
Camping in the Recreation Area
Spruce Run Recreation Area has 67 tent and trailer sites with picnic tables and fire rings available at each. Flush toilets and showers are within an easy walking distance. Open from April 1 through October 31 each site rents for $20 per night.
Alcohol is prohibited. Pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.
Highlights of Spruce Run Recreation Area
The Highlands Millennium Trail is located in the Spruce Run Recreation Area. It is 0.91miles (one way) within the park boundaries and will eventually connect the Delaware River to the Hudson River. This leisurely hike is not ADA accessible. The park grounds and roadways are excellent areas for other strolling, jogging and biking activities.
Fishing is available in the Recreation Area. There are twenty-nine species of fish contained within the waters of Spruce Run including largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish, yellow perch and carp. Trout, northern pike and hybrid bass are stocked by the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife. For fishing regulations please refer to the NJ Fish and Wildlife Digest.
Hunting in Spruce Run consists of a variety of waterfowl, which may be hunted on a seasonal basis. The Clinton Wildlife Management Area is adjacent to the recreation area and is also open for public hunting. Maps and information may be obtained from Division of Fish and Wildlife by calling (908) 735-8240 or (908) 735-8240.
Picnicking in Spruce Run is available in 6 picnic areas which are spaciously located in wooded and open areas overlooking the reservoir. Each area includes tables, charcoal grills and restroom facilities. Visitors may bring their own grills in accordance with fire regulations in effect at that time. For larger groups, we also offer the Group Picnic Area. Open from April 1 through October 31, this area holds a capacity of 225 people, provides shelter, playground equipment and may be reserved for a fee:
$55.00 per day, plus applicable parking fees
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day:
$80.00 per day
Day After Labor Day to Friday Before Memorial Day:
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee:
• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form. Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.
Boating, either electric or gas with a 10hp limit, sailing (25 feet in length and 30 feet above the water line height limit), canoe/kayaking, windsurfing are all permitted. The recreation area has a trailer launch ramp and a car top launch area. Rentals (908-638-8234 or 908-638-8234) available seasonally and boat storage (dry) available year round. Call for information.
Boat Storage (Dry)
Summer Season (April 1 – October 31)
Single Boat Trailer
$155.00
Double Boat Trailer
$230.00
Winter Season (November 1 – March 31)
Single Boat Trailer
$120.00
Double Boat Trailer
$180.00
Swimming is available in the reservoir from Memorial Weekend to Labor Day while lifeguards are on duty. Visitors will find a beach complex containing changing areas, restrooms, showers, a first-aid station, and a concession building where food and beach supplies may be purchased. Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area. Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted. Pets are prohibited on the beach. Grilling is prohibited along the beachfront including the posted grassy area. There is a playground and open fields to accommodate various ball and net games.
Special Events are held at Spruce Run several times a year. These events include walk-a-thons, sailing regattas, watershed clean-up days, triathlons, and weddings.
Winter Sports are available during the winter months. Many visitors cross-country ski, ice fish, and ice boat at the recreation area. Please contact the recreation office for snow conditions or visit the local weather channel.
Mailing Address:
68 Van Syckel's Road
Clinton, NJ 08809
(908) 638-8572 (908) 638-8572
GPS Coordinates
DMS 40° 52’ 09.06” N 74° 56' 19.79" W
Size: 2,012 acres
Fees: Entrance fees are charged per vehicle from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
$ 5.00
weekdays
$10.00
weekends
$ 2.00
walk-in/bicycle
Directions:
From the intersections of Interstate 78W and Route 31N, follow 31 north to the third traffic light – Van Syckels Road. Turn left and continue 1.5 miles to the Park entrance which is on the left
Tags: campground, new jersey camping
