High Point State Park

High Point State Park in Sussex County, New Jersey, is a great destination for outdoor recreation and excellent views. 

As the highest elevation in the state, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and year-round activities. Nestled atop the Kittatinny Ridge at 1,803 feet above sea level, High Point State Park is a jewel in New Jersey’s park system. 

Whether you’re seeking solitude on a wooded trail, family fun by the lake, or awe-inspiring views from the monument, High Point State Park delivers. It’s a destination where history, nature, and recreation converge—making it one of New Jersey’s most treasured outdoor escapes.

Spanning more than 16,000 acres, the park is best known for the High Point Monument, a 220-foot granite obelisk dedicated to New Jersey’s veterans. From its summit, visitors enjoy panoramic vistas stretching across three states—the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, the Catskills of New York, and the rolling valleys of New Jersey.

For recreation seekers, High Point offers an abundance of options. The park boasts over 50 miles of trails, ranging from gentle walks to challenging hikes. These trails accommodate not only hikers but also mountain bikers, horseback riders, and, in winter, cross-country skiers and snowshoers. 

Seasonal changes transform the landscape: spring wildflowers, lush summer greenery, fiery autumn foliage, and serene snow-covered ridges make every visit distinct. Winter transforms High Point into a snowy playground. With trails open for snowmobiling, dogsledding, and skiing, the park becomes a hub for cold-weather recreation. Even in the chill, the monument and surrounding ridges remain accessible, offering crisp, clear views that reward those willing to brave the season. 

Water enthusiasts gravitate toward Lake Marcia, a spring-fed lake perfect for swimming in summer months, fishing, or enjoying a peaceful picnic by the shore. Families often spend the day at the designated beach area, while anglers cast lines for trout and bass. 

The park also features campgrounds, making it a favorite spot for weekend getaways under the stars. High Point is more than just a natural escape—it’s a place of discovery. Visitors can engage in geocaching adventures, explore historic sites, or participate in educational programs hosted by the Friends of High Point State Park. 

Wildlife enthusiasts will find deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species thriving in the park’s diverse habitats, offering ample opportunities for photography and quiet observationThe Tourist Checklist.