Spruce Run Beach(Spruce Run Reservoir)

For dining near Spruce Run Beach, several excellent options are available. THE GOAT by David Burke offers upscale American cuisine with a great beer selection and live music. JakeaBob's Bay is known for its casual atmosphere and live music, serving a variety of comfort food and cocktails. Ader's Tavern provides Italian-American meals in a cozy setting, while Drew's Bayshore Bistro offers a lively Cajun-tinged New American dining experience. Mario's Tutto Bene is another great choice, offering old-world Italian dining with a piano bar.

These restaurants cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone near Spruce Run Beach.

For accommodations near Spruce Run Beach, several hotels are conveniently located within a short drive. The Courtyard by Marriott Lebanon offers modern rooms and an indoor pool. The TownePlace Suites Clinton provides extended stay options with free breakfast. The Quality Inn Hackettstown - Long Valley is a more budget-friendly choice with free WiFi and breakfast. The Bridgewater Marriott offers a refined experience with an indoor pool and bar/restaurant.

These hotels cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors to Spruce Run Beach.

Spruce Run Beach offers a variety of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The beach features restrooms, showers, and changing rooms, ensuring convenience for beachgoers. Picnic areas are available with tables and charcoal grills, though grills are not permitted on the beach itself. A concession stand provides food and drinks during peak season. For water enthusiasts, boat rentals are available during the summer months, allowing visitors to explore the reservoir. Additionally, the beach offers a playground and lifeguard services during operating hours, making it a safe and enjoyable destination for families.

The nearby picnic areas include covered pavilions, which can accommodate groups on rainy days. Overall, the amenities at Spruce Run Beach support a fun and relaxing day outdoors.

Spruce Run Beach is a hub for outdoor activities. Swimming is a popular pastime, with lifeguards on duty to ensure safety. Fishing and boating are also favored activities, with boat rentals available during the summer. Kayaking and canoeing offer a serene way to explore the reservoir. For those who prefer land-based activities, hiking trails are nearby, including sections of the Highlands Trail. The area also supports camping, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature overnight.

Additionally, the beach offers volleyball and other recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. The surrounding natural areas provide opportunities for bird watching and nature study, further enriching the experience.

Spruce Run Recreation Area offers partial accessibility for persons with disabilities. The facilities include wheelchair-accessible restrooms and pathways, though the extent of accessibility may vary. Visitors with specific needs are advised to contact the park office for detailed information regarding disability access. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the recreational opportunities available at Spruce Run Beach.

Parking at Spruce Run Beach is free, though spaces are limited. The parking lot can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended. There is also street parking available nearby for those who cannot secure a spot in the main lot. The proximity of the parking areas to the beach ensures that visitors can easily access the amenities and activities without a long walk.

Given the popularity of the beach, especially during peak season, planning ahead and arriving early can help secure parking and make the most of the visit.

One of the most interesting facts about Spruce Run Beach is that it is situated on a man-made reservoir created in the 1960s as part of a flood control project. The reservoir holds back eleven billion gallons of water and serves as a principal water source for the surrounding communities. The beach area was added later, transforming it into a popular recreational spot.

Historically, the area was once home to the Union Ironworks, which played a significant role in the region's industrial development. Today, visitors can explore remnants of this past at nearby historical sites.

Spruce Run Beach is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The nearby Hunterdon County Arboretum offers over 60 acres of gardens and natural areas, perfect for nature lovers. The Round Valley Recreation Area provides additional opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping, making it an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The Clinton Wildlife Management Area, adjacent to Spruce Run, is open for hunting and offers a glimpse into the region's wildlife.

Historical sites like the Union Furnace Preserve provide insights into the area's industrial past, adding a cultural dimension to the visit. These attractions collectively create a rich experience for visitors to Spruce Run Beach.