High Point State Park

High Point State Park occupies the northernmost tip of New Jersey’s Kittatinny Ridge, where Sussex County meets the borders of New York and Pennsylvania. At 1,803 feet above sea level, the park’s summit is the highest point in the state, and on a clear day the view from the monument at the top stretches across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The park covers more than 16,000 acres of ridge, forest, and wetland, drawing hikers, swimmers, and campers who want a genuine backcountry feel within a few hours of the New York metro area.

The High Point Monument and Summit Views

The most distinctive feature of the park is the 220-foot monument faced with New Hampshire granite and local quartzite that stands at the summit, completed in 1930 as a memorial to New Jersey veterans. Visitors can drive to a parking area just below the monument and walk the short path to the base, or combine it with a longer trail approach. The panorama from the top takes in the Pocono Mountains to the west, the Catskill Mountains to the north, and the Wallkill River Valley to the southeast. The views are remarkable in fall when the surrounding hardwood forest turns, and again in winter when snow covers the ridge and visibility improves. The monument itself is occasionally open for interior tours during the warmer months, though hours vary by season.

Appalachian Trail and Hiking

The Appalachian Trail passes directly through the park, and High Point is one of the more accessible places in New Jersey to pick up the white-blazed corridor. From the summit area, the AT heads south along the ridge toward Sunrise Mountain and north toward the New York border, offering serious through-hiking options as well as manageable day segments. The park also maintains its own network of color-blazed trails that branch into the lowlands, crossing cedar swamps, open meadows, and second-growth forest. Total trail mileage in the park runs to more than 50 miles, ranging from easy walks near the campground to rugged ridge traverses with significant elevation change. Trail maps are available at the park office and the interpretive center.

Lake Marcia and Swimming

The spring-fed 20-acre Lake Marcia sits near the top of the ridge, making it one of the highest freshwater swimming lakes in New Jersey. Swimming is permitted only during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty, and hours vary, so it is worth confirming the current schedule before you go. The lake is clear and cold even in midsummer, and the shoreline setting, surrounded by forest and elevation, gives it a character unlike the park beaches found at lower altitudes. Boats and personal watercraft, including kayaks and paddleboards, are not permitted on Lake Marcia; boating is available at Sawmill and Steenykill lakes instead. Fishing is available in the park’s lakes and streams, some of which are stocked with trout, along with largemouth bass and other species.

Camping

The park has 50 family campsites along Sawmill Lake, plus two group campsites, two family cabins, and one group cabin. Family campsites have fire rings and picnic tables and can accommodate about two tents; some can accommodate small trailers, but there are no water or electric hookups and no dump station. Pit toilets that flush are within walking distance, and showers are available at the Lake Marcia Bathhouse during the swimming season. The campground is a practical base for multi-day hiking on the Appalachian Trail or for exploring both the ridge and the park’s lower terrain. Reservations are handled through the New Jersey State Park reservation system and are strongly recommended from late spring through the fall foliage season.

Pet Policy

Pets are welcome in most areas of the park and must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Dogs are not permitted on the Lake Marcia beach or in the designated swim area. Pets are allowed on trails, at pet-friendly campsites, and in picnic areas. Owners are required to clean up after their animals throughout the park.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Black bears are present throughout the park and are active in all seasons, including winter during warm spells. Store all food, trash, and scented items in a bear canister or a hard-sided locked vehicle. Never leave food unattended at a campsite or picnic area, and do not approach or attempt to feed a bear under any circumstances.

Timber rattlesnakes live along the rocky ridgelines and at trail edges, particularly in areas with exposed ledge and talus. They are venomous and should be treated with serious caution. Watch where you place your feet and hands, especially when stepping over rocks or logs, and stay on the trail when possible. If you encounter one, give it space and move around it without disturbing it.

White-tailed deer are common near trails and campsites, particularly at dawn and dusk. They may appear approachable but should not be fed or handled. During the rut in fall, bucks can be unpredictable.

Deer hunting is permitted in designated areas, including winter bow hunting north of Route 23 and a special November muzzleloader hunt. Hikers using trails outside of designated recreation areas during these periods should wear blaze orange or other bright colors to remain visible to hunters.

Practical Information

High Point State Park is located at 1480 State Route 23, Wantage, New Jersey. The nearest town is Sussex, about seven miles to the south. From the south, take Route 23 north through Sussex and continue to the park entrance. From the north, Route 23 connects to the park from the New York border.

Seasonal parking fees apply from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. On weekdays, New Jersey residents pay $5 per vehicle and non-residents pay $10; on weekends and holidays, New Jersey residents pay $10 and non-residents pay $20. There is no charge for visitors arriving on foot or by bicycle. An annual New Jersey State Park Pass covers entrance or parking fees at state park facilities that charge daily fees and is available for purchase through the state park system. The park office can be reached at (973) 875-4800. Campsite reservations are made online through the New Jersey State Park Service reservation portal.