White Lake Natural Resource Area
Directions
From Route 80:
- Take Exit 12 Hope/Blairstown.
- Take CR 521 north towards Blairstown for 5 miles.
- Turn left on Route 94 and travel 0.5 miles to the first traffic light.
- Turn right at the light and continue on CR 521 (Stillwater Road) for approximately 2 miles.
- Cross the intersection with Route 659 (Spring Valley Road) and continue 0.2 miles.
- The entrance to White Lake will be on your right.
Park Overview
Preserved parkland surrounding a deep, clear lake.
Trail Overview
The Resource Area’s four blazed trails facilitate both lollipop- and loop-hikes. There is not, however, a loop hike around the lake itself. Use the Web Map link for a brochure and trail map. An experienced hiker has posted a hike blog, with narrative and numerous photos, starting on the Ridge and Valley Trail at the trailhead off Spring Valley Road (GPS coordinates: 40.992959, -74.911661).
This parkland is located in the southeastern part of the White Lake Wildlife Management Area which, combined, has 984 acres. There are plenty of opportunities to hike here.
Park Description
The White Lake Natural Resource Area, at nearly 400 acres, features a deep 69-acre spring fed lake attracting visitors for kayaking, birding and fishing. It’s also a good place for hiking. A variety of habitats surround the lake, including fertile meadows, karst limestone exposures, sinkhole ponds, and stands of mature hemlock and hardwood forests. The shoreline is also home to various endangered or threatened plant species. In addition, the preserve is dotted with several cultural and historical points of interest including, the Vass Farmstead, a lime kiln and the stone wall remnants of an ice house/marl processing facility.