Swartswood Lake

Map(s)

Road map (1024x682). 71K size. 6.9 mi loop around the lake (GPs eXchange format)

Scenery

Good; the shoreline is lined with trees, vacation homes, and unfortunately weeds (it has become so bad, that you can see them using Google Earth).  There are 2 small islands: Snake Island in the southwest, and Dove Island in the southeast.  In the southwest, you can follow a small stream to the grist mill ... if your boat can make it through the downed trees.  Stay 100' clear of the dam near the mill.  And in the northeast there is a stream that connects to Little Swartzwood Lake.  (The water was too shallow to reach the later.)  This lake is shallow, never exceeding 52 feet in depth.  The southwestern & southeastern portions are the most attractive.

In general, stay at least 40 feet from shore.  Like Wayanda Lake, there are rocks near shore that could make a mess of a gel coat.

On the NE shore, there is a wood carving of a manatee.  In the last couple of years, someone has vandalized it, removing a flipper.

Fees

None. (There are fees for the main park area during the summer, but not the boat launch area.)

Hours of Operation

24x7.

Directions

Take route 31 north to route 46 west. At the first traffic light make a right onto route 519. Once you reach Hope, go straight, taking route 521 north to route 94. Make a left onto route 94, then a right onto route 521, a.k.a. Stillwater Road (< 0.3 mi; should be your first right). After 7.5 mi, make a right onto route 612 (Pond Brook Road). After 0.8 mi, make a left onto route 619, then follow that for over 2 mi to the boat ramp entrance on your left.

The boat ramp is at the end.

Parking

Parking is VERY limited. In the off season, the ranger may allow beach launches. The beach area has PLENTY of parking.

Distance to the Launch Area

The first set of spaces is very close to the ramp, and making a short carry. When loading & unloading, place your boat on the grass strip, south the boat ramp.

Restrooms

There are restrooms at both the park office, and a port-a-john near the boat ramp.

Status of Launch Area

Go to the left of the boat ramp. It is gravely, and drops off quickly.

Wind Conditions

The southern section is fine, because of the heavy tree cover. Because of its size, even with the wind speeds around 15 mph, this place is a pussy cat! Anyone used to paddling in the bays at the shore, will consider this lake wimpy.

Power Boats

Electric boats only; no gas boats.

Foliage

Very good, possibly great. Was there in mid-Oct 2009, and the foliage was past peak, in a poor year. (Too many wind storms.)

Rolling Practice?

Because of the winds, use the southern section.