This state park might fly under the radar given its proximity to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area just to the south, but this is still a great park with lots of beauty and history. I visited during the first weekend of January with my girlfriend and spent two nights at the High Point Mountain Motel just outside the park boundaries. We first visited the park headquarters where we were able to get information and maps, then we did the 3.5 mile Monument Trail. The following morning we did a longer hike, a portion of the Iris Trail and then looped back on a section of the Appalachian Trail, the famed trail that goes from Georgia all the way to Maine. Both hikes provided beautiful views, were moderately challenging, and because it was 25 degrees in January, we had the woods almost entirely to ourselves for the duration of both hikes. We loved our time in this park and definitely want to come back in warmer weather to camp at one of the campgrounds and do more hiking. read more

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High Point is at the northwestern most point in NJ. Port Jervis is to its north while the Delaware State Forest is to its west. Plenty of interesting hikes with beautiful viewpoints of the fall foliage. We took our dog up there and he had a fun time just walking around and playing with other dogs in sight. When plotting directions, I suggest you put the address of the monument in your maps. If you put High Point State Park, you'll get directions to the campsite and there's a bit more local driving. To be clear, the campsite has some cool places to get out and walk, but it's not the main event. The monument is the greatest attraction without a doubt. It was actually closed when we were there, but we enjoyed walking around there and enjoying the views. Be warned that there are a lot of bugs and flies when you are up there. There is a cool spot where you can grab some fall treats, such as donuts and apple cider. We also stopped by Lake Marcia for a short while to walk around and enjoy the scenery. We saw a bunch of people picnic around here too. Plenty of parking and some EV chargers too. Just keep in mind that you do take away your trash, including dog poop bags!!! Overall, it's a fun park to enjoy in the fall on a 1/2 day or full day trip. Definitely one that campers and hikers will love. Dog friendly too. Good for picnics too. read more

The park is beautiful. The sights are phenomenal. The pair is very well maintained. The monument is such an incredible landmark for the park. read more

Beautiful park, the views are breathtaking. There are also so many amenities on site for children. Would recommend seeing!

A lovely state park with trails of varying degrees of difficulty. As the name denotes, it reaches the highest point in the state of New Jersey and is the summit of the Kittatinny Ridge. We came with our toddler so did a pretty easy stroll on mostly paved roads up to the tower (High Point Monument), let him play on the small lakeside beach and on the playground, and had a picnic by Lake Marcia. Beautiful 360 views from the base of the tower. Overnight camp sites are available, and some cabins as well. read more

This is my first visit to this state park for the purpose of camping. Half the tent camp sites at this park have raised wooden platforms and half do not. During my visit the area was pretty muddy, though not directly on my specific campsite but as I drove past some sites I noticed and wondered just how much of a muddy situation folks were dealing with. I'd suggest if you are camping here to grab a spot with the raised platform OR use another site at your own risk of mud or terrible terrain for tent setup. Restrooms did not have running water to wash up (i.e. brush teeth) but they did have spigots to refill water which I used to wash up as needed. I didn't see any warning signs not to drink the water which I did with no ill effects. Park did not have a shower facility close by so you'll have to drive off site to get a shower. read more

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High Point State Park is located in the upper northern area of New Jersey. It is part of the Kittatinny Mountains and can be accessed by Route 23. The Appalachian Trail which runs from Maine to Georgia runs through the park. At 1803 feet above sea level, High Point is the highest point in New Jersey. The monument is 220 feet tall and has 300 steps to the top.The monument has been newly refurbished. The spiral staircase is physically challenging and if you fear heights it could be a problem. The stairs can be damp if not outright wet. From the top of the monument which was built by the Kuser family to honor all of New Jersey's war veterans, you can see the Pocono Plateau (Pa.), Port Jervis (NY), Catskill foothills (NY) and Sussex farmlands (NJ). From Memorial day to Labor Day the cost per vehicle is $10 weekdays and $20 weekends and holidays in most years, however, this year all N.J. state parks are free. I suggest you start your visit at the Visitor Center. There you will find maps and other useful information, as well as, help park rangers. Next, I'd visit the Interpretative center which houses displays concerning the history, geology, and fauna and flora of the area. Lastly, Lake Marcia is avaiable in the summer for swimming. The swimming area has a sand bottom, no weeds and a bath house with restrooms, restaurant, changing rooms, and lifeguards. High Point has year round attractions which include: cross country skiing, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, 10 miles of trails, and Ice fishing. Hunting is done in limited aeeas of the park. Boating on lakes Sawmill and Steenykill require an electric motor or the old fashion paddle. read more

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It was bearable out and I wanted to get high. What better way that to go to the highest point in NJ. I have a hard time reading the map of trails, figuring out where I am, where I want to go and plan my hike. I drove and walked around so you wouldn't have to. There was free parking just outside the main entrance for the Appalachian trail. If you're hiking, you may want to avoid paying for parking. I paid the 5$ and took the "scenic route" to the top. The route wasn't really scenic at all, all you can see is trees, but there was an area where you can check out the observation deck. I was disappointed that the tower door was locked so I couldn't go inside and go up the stairs. Check out their website or call to see if it's open, there weren't no signs or anything like that. There's information and a few different lookout areas by the tower. I followed a short trail down from the tower to the lake area. People were swimming in the lake and hanging in the beach. There's a lot of different areas for you to picnic or BBQ. There's public bathrooms and a refreshment/snack stand. The trail around the lake is surprisingly difficult as it is thick bushes and requires a lot of agility to get around the rocks. I then followed Monument trail back to the top. The trail back to the top lead through some pretty thick woods but had a few areas for you to preview what you see at the top. read more

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High Point State Park has what you would typically expect in a NJ state park. So if you like going to state parks, you will enjoy this location as well. Where HPSP excels would be the great trails for experienced hikers, and the centerpiece of the park is a beautiful veterans monument that sits atop the highest point in NJ. The view is expectedly spectacular in each direction. I would say mid-Fall season would be best for the view and the hikes, with 'not-too-hot' summer days the best to enjoy the rest of the park. The only negative is that it's a fairly long drive from anywhere other than North Jersey. read more

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This is a beautiful park with multiple trails and some pretty views. There's a parking area up by the monument where you can enjoy amazing views but beware! It can get extremely busy during the warm weather. When we visited, it was very early in the morning to beat the crowds (and it was chilly). Despite getting there as early as we did, the crowds began to come in early as well. I would say that's the biggest downfall. Big crowds can make it difficult to enjoy especially with the pandemic. There are also really nice spots to sit around the lake, further from the monument. You get to look up at the monument and it's something really nice to see. I can imagine having a relaxing picnic near the water. I'd definitely like to do some more exploring and hiking through the park. It's a great place to take gorgeous photos. read more

High Point State Park - Parks Near Me - Sussex, New Jersey

Great place for families lots of activities hiking swimming people have bbq and picnics and gorgeous views up top great way to spend a day! read more

May go again - I've been on a few hikes in NJ but wasn't a fan of it at High Point Mountain / monument. That was very disappointing given High Point Mountain is supposed to be the highest peak mountain. Although the monument and view is nice, the hike isn't that nice and compared to driving or walking up the drive pathway, it is very long. It wasn't as scenic as I thought it would be. Big FYI: The drive pathway is much shorter to walk so if you're tired going back down, you should walk down. read more

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Did you know that the summit at High Point Monument at this state park clocks in at 1,803 feet above sea level? 1,803 feet?! Just imagine five CVS receipts taped together! (Yeah, it's a lot.) As a born 'n bred city kid (well, really a town) me and nature don't always get along and as soon as we parked to start our adventure - the flies and bugs couldn't help but do their best to keep landing in my nose and ears and obstruct my view. Even with that constant hindrance I was still in awe by the overall park (even with sections like the beach closed you could still appreciate it) and when you reached the zenith to snap some obligatory pictures of the (war-memorial) monument - the breathtaking beauty of the 360-degree view was magnificent (and even my kids that never lift their head from their iPhones were digging it). Not sure why but when we visited on a Saturday morning there wasn't admission to pay (score!) but we kept striking out trying to find an open bathroom until we were about to leave the park. I don't think we'd ever bother going again but really dug walking the grounds and learning a bit about the history of the area. read more

The staff at the (well stocked!) park office was extremely friendly and helpful... they helped me plan a 1-night, ~12 mile hike along the Appalachian and Iris Trails. The Mashipacong and Rutherford shelter areas were both in great shape... spacious and clean shelters, convenient bear boxes, clean privies, and several good spots to pitch a tent. Not the most scenic of hikes (until we got back to the High Point Monument, of course), but we got some nice views of Lake Rutherford. All in all, everything seemed very well maintained, and I can't thank the staff enough for their help and patience. I'll definitely be back! read more

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I'm writing an update because as Im sitting at the top of the observation deck for the 3rd time in 6 months, I wanted to let everyone know that the views do not get better than these!! I mean you're at the top and can see 3 states! It so picturesque!! Every time I go, it takes my breath away! This park makes you realize how small we are in this big WORLD! Every time I go here it calms me and relaxes me. It makes me realize that there is so much more to life than work and the daily grind! They have observation decks, trails, bbq grills, viewers for.25 ,A beach and such more for a cheap day out. It cost $10 a car before 4pm. But it so worth it!! So put the computer down or the phone or tv remote, get outside and walk some trials or just drive to the top and sit on a boulder and breathe the fresh air and remind yourself, Life is meant to be lived!! read more

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We moved up here 6 years ago and are close to High Point. We started bringing our boys camping our first year here and it's now an annual tradition. They absolutely love it, and we do too! We choose different campsites every year, and we've loved every one of them. The staff are friendly, accommodating and knowledgeable. We enjoy the guided nature hikes where our boys have learned so much. The trails in the park are gorgeous, with tons of moss, salamanders and colorful mushrooms! Each year we get passes to use at the lake, which has become like home to us. My boys learned to swim in that lake and each year they are so excited to come back day after day. read more

High Point State Park - Parks Near Me - Sussex, New Jersey

Beautiful place. Park is really good. Lots of things to do. The view is amazing. You can see all 3 states. read more

High Point State Park - Parks Near Me - Sussex, New Jersey

Pretty state park with amazing views. Normally $10 to enter with plenty of free parking. Main attraction is the monument that you can climb but be warned it's not for the out of shape. Views from the top are a bit limited as the windows are small and not very clean, you get better pictures from the platform the obelisk rests on. Plenty of trails to enjoy with varying degrees of difficulty. The Penn/NY side has the better views as the Delaware River valley has a more dramatic panorama than the side facing the NJ Skylands. read more

The highest point in New Jersey. Beautiful lookout surrounded by Lakes running streams natural wildlife an ideal place to go and have a picnic bring the family and enjoy your day in the Mountaineer sitting between New York Pennsylvania and New Jersey read more

Came here in the off season (January) and loved the lack of crowds, well marked hiking hiking trails, the viewing platform (located off the scenic drive) and walking around the windy monument (which is closed in winter). Groomed cross country skiing and ski rentals in winter, when snow is present. Great panoramic views and photo opportunities. Seems like a great place for mountain biking. read more

High Point State Park - View of the monument over the frozen lake. - Parks Near Me - Sussex, New Jersey

Just visit this park today and it was an amazing experience..it had so many trails ranging from easy to difficult..lake, beach, playgrounds and a nice looking monument(nice to take a pic with it)..overall, pleasant experience! read more

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I can't really see myself giving places of nature and enjoyment less then five stars however, I do have to hate on this place a little bit since their signage sucks. Definitely need to come prepared with a little knowledge and potentially your own maps. This takes you to the highest point in NJ - hence High Point State Park. In a super scenic area of NJ this trip was definitely a great destination so don't let the confusing trails and lack of assistance deter you. This park is where the Appalachian Trail runs in NJ which is just super cool since we got on it for a few miles. We hiked up to High Point Monument - and took the stairs up - which I might say is not for the weak at heart. All was really great and a great way to spend a few hours but lets be honest here, nothing mind blowing. Some great views of NJ, NY and PA. The huge lake serves as a busy beach in the summer for what sounded like a 100 kids taking full advantage of the refreshing refuge from the blazing sun. Yikes. Overall, a great park and definitely a great add to the hiking/nature list if you are trying to get your explore NJ on. read more

WINTER REVIEW I will admit this spot is probably nicer in the spring/summer/fall (obviously warmer and greener) but it's beautiful in the winter as well. I froze my butt off but had a nice afternoon here. Pros: -No people -Beautiful snowy views, glistening frozen lakes -No vehicle entrance fee Cons: -No people (i.e. staff) to give you directions -Monument and interpretive center are closed for the season -The signs here are not very good - you kind of have to wing it to figure out where to go -Bathrooms are closed during the winter although they do mention an elusive open facility in a mysterious location so don't consume too many liquids before coming here (unless you are a guy and can easily pee anywhere). Check out my blog post for photographs/additional info: http://www.unitedstatesofcuriosity.com/great-heights-high-point-state-park-sussex-nj/ read more

I came to High Point this past weekend for a hiking trip with a few friends. I really enjoyed the trail because it was intense and the path was always different each turn. There were many times where we stumbled upon a gorgeous view. When we made it to the High Point Monument the breeze was amazing! We all had the "pleasure" of climbing the monument which was quite possibly the most underwhelming experience EVER. Spoiler Alert: You'll be amazed by what you see, like really amazed, because there is nothing at the top but a tiny stuffy room with the windows closed.Regardless it made for a funny situation and overall good calorie burn. I didn't get to hang by the lake for too long, but it sure was a beautiful site. I would definitely do this hiking trail again! read more

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Great park,so quiet and serene. Swim lake is gorgeous. Great time to visit is during fall,

Hiking trails and Picnic areas meet the best views in Northern New Jersey. Great for an afternoon picnic or just site seeing. And what sights. Even without going up in the monument you can enjoy views of New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. read more

High Point State Park - High Point Monument - Parks Near Me - Sussex, New Jersey

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I'm surprised to see this park has so little reviews, it is pretty long trek for a hike but its definitely worth it in my opinion. I've been to this park twice now, first time was on 4th of July last year where it was so crowded that the other car of our group wasn't even allowed in after arriving here about 12pm. I went again last weekend and it was very quiet with only half dozen or so cars parked around the monument area. So I would definitely suggest come early if you're visiting in the summer during busy season. From Memorial Day to Labor Day they charge entrance fee of $20 per car I believe and $10 if you're NJ resident on weekends. They do open the monument and beach area during the summer season though so at least you get access to shoe for paying entry fees. Half that amount on weekdays but I would think most of us would be visiting this on a weekend for a day trip. I would say you can definitely spend at least 2-3 hours here if you're hiking, we took the Monument route which took us in loop around the Monument but then we made a detour to visit the swamp board walk and as well a 30 min hike to the other lake. If you're not into hiking there are definitely plenty of picnic tables and grills for an outdoor BBQ. 5 Stars for sure as I really enjoyed the hike and the views here. read more

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This is a great NJ state park at the highest point in NJ..hence the name! There's a nice lake for swimming, with good bathroom and changing facilities. There's also a monument (obelisk shaped tower) that's sometimes open. If you climb the stairs all the way up the monument, you'll be treated to wonderful views of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. There are a plethora of picnic tables around, and a couple of food stands as well. They also have several hiking trails and offer cross country skiing in the winter. Admission in the summer is $5.00 per carload during the week and $10 on weekends and holidays. read more

High Point State Park - Parks Near Me - Sussex, New Jersey

We camp here every fall. Just got back from another wonderful weekend. This was our second time at site 22, which we love. It's right by the bathrooms which is important for us since we have two small kids. Others might not like that because it means people come near to your site. But the actual campsite is down a driveway and behind shrubs and trees from the bathrooms, so we never felt like we were being intruded upon. We have also stayed in site 16, which we liked as well, but was a little too far from the bathrooms for us. Both of these sites are lakeside, but there is vegetation between the site and the lake so you can't actually access it from the site. The view from 16 is much better, less tress blocking the way. Both sites are also drive up, which we love. 22 has a platform which comes in handy, 16 does not but we were fine pitching our tent on the ground. I see other reviewers complaining that the bathrooms are dirty....well, it's CAMPING, not a 5* hotel! Yes, there are spiders in the bathrooms and there are no sinks, but considering camping often involves pooing in the woods, I'm fine with what is there. And I'm no fan of spiders, but even I can handle it. Hiking nearby is great. Some trails are within driving distance but the Blue Dot trail is right in the campground. It's a tough one though! We love our annual camping trip here and are already planning the next one! read more

Lovely place to visit. We went before the monument opened, however, it wasn't busy and the views are spectacular!! There is also a Veterans Memorial making the park even more special. Go for a drive and see what's out there. read more

High Point State Park - The Monument - Parks Near Me - Sussex, New Jersey

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A great place to hike for fall colors, but the hike itself is pretty boring as there's not much to see. I came in the fall when all the leaves were falling off so it was difficult to see the hiking path, but the markings are pretty good. We did the Monument Trail which was okay but still pretty boring, but once we got to the monument, the view was quite nice! read more

Beautiful views of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York all at the same time. Lovely beach. Lovely natural habitat.

It's ok. I wasn't really wowed. The view is very nice, outside of that, nothing spectacular. I've seen and been on better trails, walkways. Something to do maybe once but i wouldn't take the trip to go again. read more

For a hiker this park is undeveloped. It's sad to see people driving to top of high point. People go into parks to avoid seeing roads and cars. What is on top of highest part of NJ road and a parking lot. read more

came here for weekend camping. you need to book minimum 2 day via online. However, it's possible to book only 1 day through phone reservation. Campsite is ok. Not awesome.(lots of ticks! bring tick repellents or long sleeve shirts and pants). has fire ring, clean restroom and water is nearby. don't try to get campsite close to the lake. There's not much thing to do in the Sawmill Lake. I'd rather get campsite far from the lake. Geese make crazy noise at night. Another lake(Lake marcia) has awesome swimming place. Lake water is fairly clean that you can see some baby trout. Has beach sand which is great for kids and all kinds of family. Restroom is nearby and they have even cafeteria selling burger and fries! Some grills are there, too. but seems very competitive to get grills close to the lake. They charge for $10 for admission fee per vehicle but as a camper, you can get waived the fee also. A&P, walmart, shoplite is not that far. but I will get what I need on the way to the park. Staffs are friendly and I will visit this definitely soon! read more

Excellent spot. 1) The monument is worth visiting once, if you live in NJ. 2) The hike is very easy. There are good amount of trails. 3) There is a parking fee in the summer. read more

High Point State Park is the highest point in the state of New Jersey which is only 1000 feet above sea level which is kind of funny considering that is not that high. Lake Marcia offers a swimming area for you to cool off on a hot day. I hiked the monument trail which is about 3 miles from the parking lot to the monument and then circles back around, so it is a loop trail. While hiking I found two ticks on me one small nymph which was a deer tick and one large dog tick. The deer tick looked like a speck of dirt but I realized it was a tick because it had legs. Be very careful these carry Lymes Disease! If you come back here I would strongly suggest using bug repellent or wearing permethrin treated clothes. I had forgotten both. The monument trail leads to the monument, you can climb it for free or offer a small donation. There were about 290 steps to the top, the climb was not as difficult as I thought. When you get to the top you can look out small dirty windows. I thought that you would be outside but you're actually inside so if you want to skip it you aren't missing much. The Appalachian Trail also runs through the state park so if you are staying here you might run into some thru hikers! Thru hikers get a free can of soda when they go to the park's main office. read more

It's the highest elevation in NJ and it's only 1000 feet but oh what great view. People who don't know about New Jersey think it's all smoke stacks and chemical factories. But 99% of New Jersey is beautiful and well worth exploring. The monument at High Point State Park looks much like in monument you'll find in Washington DC. You can see forever from this awesome monument. There a great hikes you can take from the monument. The climb up the stairs is not for the weak. The windows are very small and kind of dirty so the view from the platform that the monuments it son is much better. Crazy Bernie is a big fan of High Point both in New Jersey and in North Carolina. read more

Came here for a birthday BBQ. Great place. Very open space, with lots to do. The view on top is ammaaaziing! Kids were able to fish and play at the park. Only downside was the bathroom we were close to had no sinks to wash hands but I guess the hand sanitizer helped. read more

High Point State Park - Amazing view - Parks Near Me - Sussex, New Jersey

I am a big fan of state parks, and High Point is definitely one of my favorites. There are over 50 miles of hiking trails within the park (including a section of the Appalachian trail) and all are very well maintained and quite scenic. In fall, the views from atop the monument are quite breathtaking as you can see the variety of fall foliage for miles around. From the monument, you can actually see parts of three states--NJ, New York, and Pennsylvania so the view from up there is pretty phenomenal anytime of the year. Just be sure not to get blown away while on top of the monument as it can get quite windy! I know that it was possible to climb up within the tower in the past, but this has since been disallowed. That's kind of a bummer, but probably for the best as I had heard the stairs within the monument were in disarray. In the summer, there's swimming at Lake Marcia complete with lifeguards, a small concession stand, and geese. The beach is small and can get quite crowded at times, but generally it isn't too bad. The sand here isn't exactly "beach" sand but it serves it's purpose. However, the lake here may not be for shore snobs, and you're definitely not going to see too many fake tans, blowouts, or unnaturally bulging biceps here. But that's a good thing! You can also camp, fish, and mountain bike here. In the winter, there's even cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobile trails. So there literally is something to do every season! High Point State Park is a state park done right, and a great resource for northern NJ and NY'ers. So go on and get your nature on! read more