Sparta's hidden treasure expands

Sparta - Traveling down White Lake Road in Sparta, turning south down a dirt path that separates the corn fields and beyond a grassy hill, a visitor will stumble up one of Sparta’s natural gems, a clear water lake with a beach, surrounded almost entirely by trees. If the visitor wasn’t certain of what he was looking for, he most likely would never find the rustic and secluded White Lake Beach Club which is sunken into this natural habitat. For years, Sparta residents have enjoyed this municipal gem, and as the population of Sparta has grown, so have the crowds on the beach. In response to the growth, the Sparta Recreation Department has recently expanded the beach to almost double its size. “The beach was just not big enough anymore. There was not enough room for the kids to play, for the parents to sit, and others were not joining as a result,” said Donna Jenkins, director of the Sparta Recreation Department. In addition to the expansion, the department is also replacing two docks. The lake is one center of activity during the summer months. Members can enjoy free use of paddleboats, or a game of volleyball, horseshoe or badminton. The lake club provides the equipment. The department also uses the lake to offers swimming lessons for groups or individuals lessons for an additional fee. Swimming lessons are available to all Sparta residents, not just beach club members. Full season memberships cost $240 for a family of four with an additional $37 for each additional child. The season runs from June 19 to Sept. 5. There are also couple and individual packages available for $180 and $142, respectively. The lake facilities are open weekdays from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and from 1 to 7 p.m. on Sundays. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the beach club is open to Sparta residents who are not members for a $5 fee. Tickets must be purchased at the Sparta Recreation Department office located on the lower level of the Sparta Library building. For more information, call the Sparta Recreation Department at (973) 729-2383 or visit the department’s Web site at www.spartanj.net.