Not a fan of the beach or the ocean, but still want to spend the day outdoors and on the water? Head up North to Sussex County, where you’ll find Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey’s largest freshwater lake. It’s got all the ingredients for family fun, like beaches along the lake shore, swimming holes, water sports, fishing, and boating. Whether you’re up for a relaxing time at a dockside restaurant, a boat trip with scenic views, or a quick dip, this picturesque lake offers something for everyone. And don’t miss planning a road trip to see the fall foliage. Scroll down to learn more about things to do at Lake Hopatcong and how to plan your day, and for more places to cool off, check out our NJ MOM lake guide. (featured photo credit: iStock/andykazie)
7 Things To Do With The Family On Lake Hopatcong
Get the lay of the land
Known as New Jersey’s largest lake, Lake Hopatcong is a great place to take the fam for a day on the water. Situated in Morris County and just 30 minutes from the Delaware Water Gap, the lake comprises 45 miles of shoreline and forms part of the border between Sussex and Morris counties. There are a few access points to get to the lake with a boat, including Hopatcong State Park and Lee’s County Park Marina. Want to learn more about Lake Hopatcong and its rich history as a resort town from the turn of the century? Stop by the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, with exhibits and displays showing how Lake Hopatcong became a tourist mecca, attracting thousands each summer. Check out the carousel horse and memorabilia from the famous Bertrand Island Park, a former amusement park that was Lake Hopatcong’s version of the boardwalk from the 1920s until it closed in 1983.
Cruise the lake
One of the most iconic things to do in Lake Hopatcong is Lake Hopatcong Cruises, where you can board the Miss Lotta (which holds the honor of being the largest boat on the largest lake in NJ) and take in the lake’s picturesque views. The two-story vessel with an open-air top deck hosts cruises from the beginning of May until the end of October, so you have lots of time to climb aboard and set sail. While you take in the scenery around you, enjoy a delicious brunch, lunch, or even a dinner cruise. Love a good theme night? Miss Lotta offers themed cruises, such as the popular Karaoke Cruise or a fully narrated Historical Excursion. You can even book your next special occasion or private event on the boat.
Enjoy fun watersports
Got a family member who is always up for a watery adventure? Lake Hopatcong is ideal for water skiing, wakeboarding, riding a tube, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Or rent a patio party boat or a pontoon boat, where you can spend time with friends having group fun. There are a few places to rent boats, including Bridge Marina, Lake Hopatcong Boat Club & Charters, and Watersport Experience.
Take a dip at the swimming holes and beaches
One of the best ways to spend the day with the family is soaking up the rays on the beach before jumping into the water for a cool swim. Like the shore, crowds flock to Lake Hopatcong on the weekends, so be prepared to claim your spot on the sand early in the day. For public beaches, head to Byram Cove or Hopatcong State Park, which have roped-off areas for swimming and lifeguards on duty. Avoid the main lake area because of the deep water and sometimes heavy boat traffic.
Dine at one of the many restaurants
With some of the finest, and also some of the only, lakeside restaurants in New Jersey, Lake Hopatcong has a bunch of dining options. But, more than just delicious food, you can sit outside while watching the boats go by or just take in the breathtaking views. The best part is that there are lots of different places to choose from. Try brunch or listen to live music at The Windlass among gorgeous views, order a pizza at family-friendly Cambiotti’s Tomato Pie Cafe, which was voted third best pizza in the state, or stop by Paul & Christa’s Diner for Greek specialties and hearty breakfast foods. And if you’re lucky enough to rent a boat, pull it up to the historic Main Lake Market dock, tie the boat up, and head in to get subs and ice cream to bring back on board.
Play a round of putt-putt
If you have littles in the family, you know sometimes a day of relaxing by the water isn’t in the cards. But Lake Hopatcong has plenty to keep everyone entertained. One of our favorites is Lake Hopatcong Golf Club, an adorable mini golf course with each hole representing an iconic spot of Lake Hopatcong history, including the Yacht Club, Main Lake Market, and Wildcat rollercoaster from Bertrand’s Island, which stood tall on the lake until it was torn down in 1983. Another putt-putt course near the water is Castle Cove, which has an 18-hole castle-themed mini golf course and an arcade full of classic games like skee ball, air hockey, and claw machines. If you’re looking for more action, take a ride over to Wild West City, which is only a few miles away, and discover one of the most unique theme parks in our state.
Sit back and enjoy boating events
Throughout the year, Lake Hopatcong hosts numerous boating events that even the youngest members of your family will love to watch. The Sunday Sailboat Regattas put up their sails for a race around the lake each Sunday during the summer. And one of the biggest events of the year is the Lake Hopatcong Grand Prix, which brings the excitement of powerboat racing with 40+ boats competing on the lake. At the end of the event, there is live music into the night, where you can meet the racing teams.
What to know before you visit Lake Hopatcong
With events happening throughout the year, take a look at the calendar for dates and times. There are marinas where you can rent boats, jet skis, water skis, and more to use on the lake. Want to stay longer than a day? There are camping sites along the lake, but if you don’t want to rough it, a few hotels are nearby, though none are directly on the lake.
For more information, visit Lake Hopatcong on its website.
Lake Hopatcong
353 East Hanover Ave.
Morris Township, NJ 07960
Want the inside scoop? Sign up for the NJMOM bi-weekly newsletter to get the lowdown on everything for your family in NJ (think of it as the ultimate cheat sheet for NJ Moms). And don’t forget to tag your photos #NJMOM and @njmom for a chance to be featured.
