If you are looking for a place to hike, bike, fish, or camp in the Catskills, you might want to check out Port Jervis Watershed. This is a 307-acre area of land owned by the city of Port Jervis that provides drinking water for the city residents and also serves as a park and recreation area. In this blog post, we will share some information and tips on how to make the most of your visit to Port Jervis Watershed.

What is Port Jervis Watershed?

Port Jervis Watershed is located in the town of Deerpark, adjacent to the 186-acre Elks-Brox Park. Both parcels are in natural pristine condition and offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The watershed is named after the Port Jervis Reservoir, also known as Brewer’s Reservoir, a man-made lake that was created in 1907 by damming the Neversink River. The reservoir is the main source of water for the city of Port Jervis and also a habitat for wildlife such as ducks, geese, herons, and turtles.

What can you do in Port Jervis Watershed?

There are many ways to enjoy Port Jervis Watershed, depending on your interests and abilities. Here are some of the main activities you can do:

• Hiking: There are over 30 miles of trails in Port Jervis Watershed, ranging from easy to hard. Some of the popular trails are:
  • Brewer’s Reservoir Trail: A 2-mile easy loop that circles around the reservoir, offering views of the water and the forest. This trail is also open to biking and fishing.
  • Beginner’s Berm Trail: A 1.5-mile easy trail that follows the contour of the reservoir, with gentle slopes and curves. This trail is also open to biking.
  • Out N Back Trail: A 2-mile moderate trail that connects the Beginner’s Berm Trail and the Turntable Trail, with some steep sections and switchbacks. This trail is also open to biking.
  • Turntable Trail: A 3-mile hard trail that climbs up to a ridge overlooking the tri-state juncture of New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. This trail offers panoramic views of the city of Port Jervis, the Delaware River, and the High Point Monument. This trail is also open to biking.
• Biking: Some of the trails in Port Jervis Watershed are open to mountain biking, such as the Beginner’s Berm Trail, the Out N Back Trail, and the Turntable Trail. These trails are also used by hikers, so be courteous and share the trail. You can find more information on biking trails on Trailforks.
• Fishing: You can fish for bass, perch, bluegill, and catfish in the reservoir, as long as you have a valid fishing license and follow the fishing regulations for the area. You can access the reservoir from several points along the Brewer’s Reservoir Trail or from a boat launch near the dam.
• Camping: There are several designated campsites in Port Jervis Watershed, where you can pitch a tent or use a lean-to shelter. You can also camp at large in most areas of the watershed, as long as you follow the camping rules. Some of the campsites are:
  • Reservoir Road Campsite: A large campsite with a lean-to shelter, a fire ring, a picnic table, and a privy. You can access this site by driving on Reservoir Road or by hiking on the Brewer’s Reservoir Trail.
  • Point Peter Campsite: A small campsite with a fire ring and a privy. You can access this site by hiking on the Point Peter Trail or by driving on Skyline Drive.
  • Elks-Brox Park Campsite: A small campsite with a fire ring and a privy. You can access this site by hiking on the Elks-Brox Park Trail or by driving on Skyline Drive.

How to get to Port Jervis Watershed?

You can reach Port Jervis Watershed by car from several directions. The main access points are:

• Reservoir Road: From Port Jervis, take NY-97 north for about 2 miles. Turn left onto Reservoir Road and follow it for about 1 mile. The road ends at a parking lot near the dam and the boat launch.
• Point Peter Trailhead: From Port Jervis, take NY-97 north for about 2 miles. Turn left onto Reservoir Road and follow it for about 0.5 miles. Turn right onto Skyline Drive and follow it for about 1 mile. The trailhead parking lot is on the left.
• Elks-Brox Park Trailhead: From Port Jervis, take NY-97 north for about 2 miles. Turn left onto Reservoir Road and follow it for about 0.5 miles. Turn right onto Skyline Drive and follow it for about 2 miles. The trailhead parking lot is on the right.

You can also find more information and maps on the Outdoor Club of Port Jervis website or the AllTrails app.

What to bring and what to know?

Before you head to Port Jervis Watershed, make sure you are prepared and informed. Here are some tips and reminders:

• Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. Layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Bring enough water and food for your trip. There are no potable water sources in the watershed.
• Pack a map, compass, flashlight, first aid kit, and other essentials. Cell phone service may be limited or unavailable in some areas.
• Leave no trace. Carry out what you carry in, and dispose of waste properly. Do not litter, feed wildlife, or damage plants.
• Respect other users. Share the trail, yield to bikers, and keep noise to a minimum.
• Follow the rules and regulations. Stay on marked trails, do not trespass on private property, and obey signs and markers.
• Have fun and be safe. Enjoy the beauty and diversity of Port Jervis Watershed.

I hope this blog post has inspired you to visit Port Jervis Watershed and discover its hidden gem in the Catskills. It is a great place to connect with nature and have an adventure. Happy trails!