Want a mountain escape but can’t get away for more than an afternoon? Head to High Point State Park in Sussex County, home to New Jersey’s highest elevation at over 1,800 feet above sea level, where you can see three states—New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey —from the summit. Plus, with 50 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the famed Appalachian Trail, a monument you can reach on foot or by car for jaw-dropping views, a swimmable lake with a beach, and an interactive nature center where kids can learn about local plants and wildlife, High Point State Park checks all the boxes for a day outdoors. Read on to find out more about one of the best parks to visit in New Jersey. (featured photo: istock/Tongshan)

Take The Family For A Day At High Point State Park

High Point State Park views nj mom — *High Point State Park offers miles of views of New Jersey. Photo Credit: istock/Rabbitti*

Take in the views from High Point Monument

The reason people flock to High Point State Park? It’s the views from the summit of High Point Monument, New Jersey’s highest elevation, with stunning vistas that extend far beyond NJ into New York and Pennsylvania. You can reach the summit by car or by hiking one of three trails, which vary in difficulty and length. Once there, you’ll see a towering granite monument honoring veterans of all wars, with an inscribed dedication. While you can only admire it from the outside most days, it opens a few days each year, and you can climb the steps and take in sweeping views of the surrounding area (call the park ahead or check at the interpretive center for opening days). Around the monument, viewpoints offer a closer look at the gorgeous scenery.

Explore the Park’s hiking trails and Lake Marcia

If you’re planning a visit, you can’t overlook the 50 miles of trails throughout the park. Each trail passes through forests, open spaces, and scenic areas where you can spot birds, identify trees, and discover the park’s natural features. The best part? High Point State Park is associated with the Appalachian Trail, making it a great way to introduce your kids to this famous hiking route. Choose a trail based on your children’s ages and stamina, though rocky or uneven terrain can make some routes more challenging. During summer, enjoy swimming off the beach at Lake Marcia, a spring-fed lake that’s prime for cooling down on hot days. The area has a snack stand, restrooms, a picnic area with charcoal grills, and lifeguards on duty.

Discover nature at the Cedar Swamp Trail and Interpretive Center

For a break from the outdoors, stop by the park’s Interpretive Center, where kids can learn about the area’s history, indigenous plants, and native animals. There’s always something going on your kids can join—whether it’s a storytime, craft, game, or guided hike. After you explore the Center, head to the Cedar Swamp Trail, a family-friendly path through the Dryden Kuser Natural Area that is about 2.5 miles long. The tour is self-guided (pick up a guide in the Center), though park naturalists do conduct tours seasonally.

FAQs about visiting High Point State Park

Where is High Point State Park located?

High Point State Park is located at 1480 State Route 23 in Montague, New Jersey, near the New York-Pennsylvania border. To reach Route 23, you can take I-287 or I-80.

Is High Point State Park free to visit?

It depends on when you are going. Admission is free from Labor Day through Memorial Day, but during the summer season, admission is charged by car. NJ residents get a discount, and admission is higher on weekends than weekdays during that time.

Can you drive to the top of High Point State Park?

Yes—you don’t have to hike to reach the summit. Drive along the park’s main road to the Monument parking area. From there, you can enjoy the views from nearby areas or take a short walk up the hill to the Monument.

Is High Point State Park good for kids?

High Point State Park has plenty of spots for kids to enjoy, especially the Cedar Swamp Trail and Interpretive Center, which was designed with families in mind. You can also drive to the Monument, so parents don’t have to worry about a long hike or climbing stairs. In the summer, Lake Marcia has a picnic area, and lifeguards are on duty for swimming.

What are the hours at High Point State Park?

The park is open year-round, with hours varying by season. From April 1 through November 30, the park is open from 8 AM to sunset; from December 1 through March 31, the park closes at 4:30 PM. The Interpretive Center is generally open on Saturdays and Sundays, but check their hours and for special weekday programming before you go.

Learn more about High Point State Park on their website, Facebook, and Instagram.

High Point State Park
1480 State Route 23
Sussex, NJ 07461

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