Peach Lake, nestled 50 miles north of New York City in Westchester and Putnam Counties, has evolved from a popular summer getaway to a year-round haven for families. Once bustling with weekend visitors who enjoyed a large beach, boating, and commercial amusements, the lake now boasts serene suburban neighborhoods. These communities feature private beaches, clubhouses, and playgrounds maintained by housing development associations, providing members with sun, sand, and various recreational activities. Lakefront homeowners enjoy swimming, water skiing, wakeboarding, pontooning, canoeing, and kayaking from their private docks. Although parts of the three-mile shoreline are densely developed, a portion remains farmland and horse pasture. Many former summer cottages have been transformed into larger, year-round homes, primarily occupied by middle-class families and commuters to nearby cities.
Fishing is a beloved pastime at Peach Lake, with the waters teeming with chain pickerel, largemouth bass, rock bass, perch, black crappie, smallmouth bass, bluegill, and panfish. Ice huts dot the frozen lake in winter, providing shelter for hardy ice anglers. Despite the absence of public access, residents and their guests can fish, adhering to state fishing regulations and requiring a state fishing license. Peach Lake’s name, derived from the Native American village Pehquenakonck, reflects its rich history dating back to the 17th century. The lake, part of the Croton Reservoir System supplying New York City, has seen recent improvements, such as a new sewer system to enhance water quality, monitored by volunteers affiliated with the Citizens Statewide Lake Assessment Program (CSLAP).
Life around Peach Lake offers a peaceful retreat, yet residents remain close to more vibrant locales. The lake lies within North Salem in Westchester County and Brewster in Putnam County, where larger towns provide essential services, restaurants, and shops. Danbury, CT, just 10 miles away, offers attractions such as Tarrywile Park, Danbury Railway Museum, Elephants Trunk Flea Market, and the Military Museum of Southern New England for those looking to vacation at Peach Lake, private rentals and nearby accommodations in Brewster and the surrounding area are available. Proximity to highways I-84 and I-684 ensures easy access to large chain hotels and various recreational activities, making Peach Lake a delightful destination for residents and visitors.
