Description

Geography:

Located in the extreme northwest corner of New Jersey, the park is situated along the crest of the Kittatinny Mountains in Sussex County. The view from High Point Monument, at 1,803 feet above sea level, is a spectacular panorama of rich farmland and forest, soft hills and lush valleys in three states: New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. The blue line of the Delaware River divides the verdant ridges of New Jersey from those of Pennsylvania.

High Point State Park is also the home of the Dryden Kuser Natural Area, at 1,500 feet above sea level, this Atlantic white cedar swamp is the highest of its kind in the world.

Recreation:

High Point State Park offers many recreational activities for both the day and overnight visitor.

Lake Marcia, a 20-acre spring fed natural lake with a lifeguarded beach, is refreshing for swimmers during the hot summer months.

During the winter, the High Point Cross-Country Ski Center, a private concession within the park, maintains over 10 miles of groomed trails and provides equipment rentals and instruction for both cross-country skiing and snow shoeing.

Picnicking facilities are provided in attractive, private and open settings with tables and charcoal grills.

High Point State Park offers 50 family campsites with fire rings and picnic tables in a secluded setting along 20-acre Sawmill Lake. A limited number of campsites have space for a travel trailer, but must be completely self contained, as there are no water, sewer, or electric hookups available in the park. Camping is available seasonally from April 1 - October 31.

For larger groups High Point State Park offers two group campsites located off of Park Ridge Road in a secluded location. Group Campsite A has a capacity of 35 people. Group Campsite B has a capacity of 25 people. The group campsites have potable water nearby and each has a biodegradable toilet on site. Group camping is available from May 15 - October 15.

Two family cabins and a group cabin are available for rentals in the park. All cabins have electricity, bathrooms with a shower, toilet and sink, and are furnished with a woodstove for heat during cooler months. The cabins also have a full kitchen with a sink, refrigerator, and electric stove. Cabins are available from May 15 - October 15.

With over 50 miles of trails, High Point State Park offers visitors a variety of options during the year. Designated multi-use trails are available for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, dog sledding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Park visitors can experience a portion of the Appalachian Trail which offers many scenic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Boating is available at two locations in the park, the 20-acre Sawmill Lake and 36.6-acre Steenykill Lake. Power boats are limited to electric motors only. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices are required for each boat occupant.

Excellent fishing can be found in High Point’s numerous lakes and streams. A New Jersey fishing license is required for individuals between the ages of 16 and 70.

Hunting is permitted in designated areas within High Point State Park and is subject to NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife regulation.

Facilities:

Lake Marcia offers a seasonal bathhouse open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend from the hours of 10:00am to 6:00pm. Hot showers, dressing rooms and restrooms are available. An adjacent seasonally operated concession stand is also available.

Standing at the highest elevation in the state of New Jersey, 1803 feet above sea level, the monument was built through the generosity of the Kuser family, in honor of all war veterans. Construction was started in 1928 and completed in 1930. At the top of the 220-foot structure, observers have a breathtaking view of the ridges of the Pocono Mountains toward the west, the Catskill Mountains to the north and the Wallkill River Valley in the southeast. The mountain is open seasonally, weather permitting. Contact the park office for up-to-date information.

The Interpretive Center offers a variety of interpretive and educational programs on a year-round basis. Nature hikes, stream walk, and talks are conducted by the park naturalist throughout the seasons. Upcoming program schedules and information can be found by contacting the park office or by visiting the Interpretive Center on the web at www.highpointpark.blogspot.com

Picnic tables and grills are located throughout the Day Use Area of High Point State Park. Multiple restrooms with flush toilets and potable water are located throughout the park.

Nearby Attractions:

High Point State Park is just one of many New Jersey State Parks in Sussex County. Swartswood State Park, Stokes State Forest, Jenny Jump State Forest, Worthington State Forest and Waywayanda State Park are all within an hour drive.

The nearby Delaware River and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area also offer many recreational activities for visiting families to enjoy.

High Point State Park is located in the Tri-State Area, providing easy access to nearby New York and Pennsylvania attractions.