Things to Do Near Stewartsville, NJ

Outdoor Adventures Near Stewartsville, NJ

Living in Stewartsville means being surrounded by some of the best outdoor recreation in New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. From the serene trails around Merrill Creek Reservoir to the rushing water of the Delaware River, there is no shortage of things to do for residents and visitors of all ages and interests. The NJ Skylands region is genuinely one of the state’s most scenic and activity-rich areas.

Merrill Creek Reservoir

Merrill Creek Reservoir is Stewartsville’s most significant natural neighbor and one of the genuine gems of Warren County. The reservoir covers 650 acres and is surrounded by an 18-mile network of hiking and wildlife observation trails managed by the Merrill Creek Reservoir Preserve Associates.

Activities available at Merrill Creek include:

• Hiking – 18+ miles of trails through mixed forest and meadow, with views of the reservoir
• Fishing – the reservoir is stocked with trout, bass, and other species; fishing permits are required and available
• Kayaking and canoeing – non-motorized boats are permitted with proper registration
• Birdwatching – the reservoir and surrounding preserve attract migrating waterfowl, bald eagles, and hundreds of other species; it is considered one of the best birding sites in New Jersey
• Wildlife photography – deer, fox, herons, and other wildlife are commonly seen throughout the preserve

The preserve visitor center provides information about wildlife and trail conditions. Admission to the trails is free for hikers. Merrill Creek is genuinely world-class for birdwatching, drawing serious birders from across the region, particularly during spring and fall migration.

The Delaware River

The Delaware River runs just a few miles west of Stewartsville, offering a range of water-based activities. The river is a National Scenic and Recreational River in this stretch, maintained in a relatively natural state that makes it ideal for outdoor recreation.

• Tubing – several outfitters in the region offer tube rentals for lazy floats down calm sections of the river during summer months
• Kayaking and canoeing – both flat-water and moving-water paddling opportunities exist depending on flow levels and the section chosen
• Fishing – the Delaware is renowned for its shad fishing in spring, plus bass, perch, and other species year-round
• Riverside parks – multiple access points and small parks along the river offer picnicking and scenic views

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Located approximately 25-30 miles north of Stewartsville, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is one of the most visited national parks in the country. The Gap features dramatic ridgelines, waterfalls, swimming beaches, hiking trails (including a section of the Appalachian Trail), and spectacular views. It is accessible for a half-day trip from Stewartsville and makes an excellent destination for families, hikers, and anyone wanting a more dramatic natural landscape.

Spruce Run and Round Valley Reservoirs

Heading east on I-78, Spruce Run Recreation Area and Round Valley Reservoir in Hunterdon County offer additional outdoor options within 30-40 minutes of Stewartsville. Spruce Run offers swimming, boating, camping, and fishing on a large reservoir. Round Valley is known as one of New Jersey’s deepest lakes, popular with scuba divers, serious anglers, and kayakers.

Day Trips and Regional Attractions

Phillipsburg, NJ

Just 10 minutes from Stewartsville, Phillipsburg sits on the Delaware River directly across from Easton, PA. The Phillipsburg Railroad Historama preserves historic steam locomotives and rail equipment, and the railroad offers seasonal excursion rides along the river. Downtown Phillipsburg has seen revitalization efforts with local restaurants and shops, and the riverfront area is worth a visit.

Easton, Pennsylvania

Cross the Delaware River and you are in Easton, one of the Lehigh Valley’s most engaging downtowns. Easton attractions include:

• The Crayola Experience – a hands-on attraction that is wildly popular with families and young children
• Easton Farmers Market – one of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in the country, held on Saturdays in Centre Square
• Two Rivers Landing – home to the Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society and the Crayola Factory
• State Theatre of Easton – a beautifully restored historic theater offering concerts, Broadway touring shows, comedy, and more
• Downtown dining and craft beer – Easton’s restaurant and bar scene has grown significantly, with quality options for every palate

Clinton, New Jersey

About 20 miles east on I-78, Clinton is one of New Jersey’s most picturesque small towns. The Red Mill Museum Village occupies a historic 19th-century grist mill on the South Branch Raritan River and is one of the most photographed spots in the state. Clinton also offers antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and excellent dining options along the riverfront. It is a popular destination for a weekend afternoon outing.

Allentown and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

The Lehigh Valley cities of Allentown and Bethlehem, approximately 35-45 minutes from Stewartsville via I-78 West, offer a significant range of urban amenities without the cost and congestion of New York or Philadelphia:

• SteelStacks – an arts campus built on the site of the historic Bethlehem Steel works, hosting festivals, concerts, and events year-round
• Musikfest – one of the largest free music festivals in the country, held in Bethlehem each August
• Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem – casino gaming, concerts, and dining
• Dorney Park – a full-scale amusement and water park in Allentown
• PPL Center – a modern arena hosting AHL hockey, concerts, and events

Seasonal Activity Guide

Spring

Spring in Warren County brings wildflower blooms, excellent birding at Merrill Creek, trout fishing on the Delaware, and the reopening of seasonal outdoor attractions. The Easton Farmers Market is a great spring destination.

Summer

Summer is for the rivers. Tubing, kayaking, and swimming at local recreation areas fill weekends. Festivals in Easton and Phillipsburg keep the social calendar full. The cooler temperatures of Merrill Creek’s shaded trails offer relief on hot days.

Fall

Fall foliage in Warren County and across the Skylands region is spectacular. Scenic drives along Route 57, Route 173, and County Route 519 showcase the color. Apple picking at area orchards, harvest festivals, and the peak of fall birding at Merrill Creek make October the region’s best month.

Winter

Blue Mountain Ski Area in Pennsylvania, approximately 45 minutes from Stewartsville, offers downhill skiing and snowboarding. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are possible on the Merrill Creek trails after significant snowfall. Indoor options include the Crayola Experience, movies, and the regional arts venues in Easton and Bethlehem.

To learn more about living in Stewartsville and making the most of what the region offers, visit our pages on schools and living and local businesses.