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. The blue line of the Delaware River divides the verdant ridges of New Jersey from those of Pennsylvania. High Point offers superb trails for hikers and skiers and quiet spots for campers and anglers.

The land for High Point State Park, donated by Colonel Anthony R. and Susie Dryden Kuser, was dedicated as a park in 1923. The pleasant landscaping was designed by the Olmsted Brothers of Boston, a prominent landscape architectural firm of that time. The brothers were the sons of the eminent Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed Central Park.

Through the Carry-In/Carry-Out Program you can help us keep your parks clean and beautiful by carrying out the trash you carry in. Bags are provided throughout the site. Thank you for your cooperation and remember to recycle.

High Point State Park facilities are partially accessible for persons with disabilities. Please contact the park office for further information regarding disability access needs. Text telephone (TT) users, call the New Jersey Relay Service at (800) 852-7899.

The monument was built through the generosity of the Kusers, 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 monument is currently closed for the winter. It will reopen for tours in the spring.

The park offers a variety of interpretive and educational programs on a year-round basis. Nature hikes, stream walks and talks are conducted by the park naturalist. Check the Calendar of Events for High Point State Park's current programs

The spring-fed waters of the 20-acre Lake Marcia are cool and refreshing for swimmers. The beach is protected by lifeguards and there is a bathhouse and food concession adjacent to the beach.

Boats may be launched at specific locations at Sawmill Lake and Steenykill Lake. Boating is permitted subject to New Jersey's boating regulations and NJ State Park Service rules. Check with the park office for launch sites. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices are required for each boat occupant. Power boats are limited to electric motors only.

Excellent fishing can be found in High Point's lakes and streams, which are well-stocked with trout, large mouth bass and other species. Please refer to Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.

At 1,500 feet above sea level, the Atlantic white cedar swamp in Dryden Kuser Natural Area is the highest elevation swamp of its kind in the world. A self-guided trail booklet for those who wish to hike the swamp trail is available at the park office. Endangered species include the three-tooth cinquefoil and Cooper's hawk.

To the south, the Appalachian Trail follows a rocky ridge which offers many scenic views of the valleys and mountains surrounding the area. To the north, the trail drops off the ridge through hemlock gorges into former agricultural fields with a view of the surrounding countryside and the High Point Monument in the distance.

The Dryden Kuser Natural Area includes a distinctive bog, locally called the Cedar Swamp. The Cedar Swamp Trail makes a one and a half mile loop around the bog. The trail guide described the spring-summer vegetation and other features of the bog and the surrounding area. The descriptions in the guide correspond to numbered posts on the trail. As you enjoy the natural beauty of this area, please remember to leave it undisturbed for future visitors.

Winter months find cross-country skiers on the 15 km of groomed trails in the park. Half of the trails are covered by artificial snow. Cross-country skis and other winter sports equipment are available for rent. A blazing fire, hot soup and other hearty food greet visitors at the center on Lake Marcia. For information, call (973) 702-1222.

For forms and information on booking a campsite visit our: reservations page

Alcohol is prohibited. Pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.

Campsites: 50 tent sites (no trailers) along Sawmill Lake with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets are within walking distance. Open April 1 through October 31. $20 per night.

Group campsites: Two group campsites, accommodate 25 and 35 people each. Drinking water, pit toilets. Open May 15 through October 15. Site A - $35.00 per night, Site B - $25.00 per night

Cabins: Two cabins each with furnished living room with a woodstove; three bedrooms -one room with double bed, two rooms with twin beds; kitchen with hot and cold running water, electric stove, refrigerator; bathroom with shower, toilet, and sink. Electricity. Cabins are located on eastern shore of Steenykill Lake. Each accommodates six people. With prior permission from the superintendent, two additional people may be accommodated. Cabins are open from May 15 to October 15. $65 per night, $455 per week.

Group cabin: Living room with woodstove, full kitchen, two bunkrooms with double bunks, bathrooms, showers. Accommodates up to 28 people. Open May 15 through October 15. $155 per night; Two-night minimum.

Campground Map (Low resolution for viewing purposes)
Campground Map (High resolution for printing purposes) File
Size:99 KB

back

Several picnic areas with table and grills are located throughout the park. For larger groups, we also offer three reservable picnic shelters that can accommodate up to 75 people each. In addition, group picnic Shelter #1 has playground equipment and Shelter #2 offers play fields and playground equipment. These areas may be reserved for a fee:

back to top

• High Point Cross Country Ski Center
• Sussex County Weather
• Appalachian Trail Conference
• New York - New Jersey Trail Conference
• NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife (information regarding fishing and hunting)
• Lusscroft Farm - Heritage & Agriculture Association, Inc.

back to top