Sawmill Lake Campground at High Point

Sawmill Lake Campground at High Point At A Glance...

• Campsites located near the beautiful Sawmill Lake
• Access to swimming in Lake Marcia (a short drive within the park)
• Opportunities for fishing and boating (non-motorized) on Sawmill Lake
• Proximity to numerous hiking trails, including parts of the Appalachian Trail
• Flush toilets and shower facilities available for camper convenience
• Alcohol is prohibited in all New Jersey State Parks and Forest campgrounds.
• Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• Todays Sunrise: 5:24 am,   Sunset: 8:37 pm  
• New Jersey Skylands Region Sussex County
• Sawmill Lake Campground at High Point is part of  High Point State Park

• Activities:

  • Fishing

  Amenities:

  • Bathrooms
  • Picnic / Sitting Area
  • Grills / Firering
  • Playground

  Camping:

  • 0-0 All Campgrounds and RV parks
  • Drive-up camping
    Rustic camping
  • Group Camping
  • Medium sized lots (good for popups)
  • Tent Camping Available
  • Multi-use Trails
  • Pet Friendly

  Park Type:

  • Playground

  Rules/Regulations:

  • Alcohol *NOT Permitted*

Contact / Location

A Brief History

High Point State Park was established in 1923 after Colonel Anthony R. and Susie Dryden Kuser gifted their mountaintop estate to New Jersey for the purpose of a public park. The park, including its camping facilities like Sawmill Lake Campground, has since become a cherished destination for recreation and appreciating the natural beauty of the Kittatinny Mountains. The High Point Monument, completed in 1930, is a central feature.

Programs / Education

High Point State Park often offers interpretive and educational programs, especially during the peak season.

• These may include guided hikes, nature talks, and children's programs.
• Information on specific programs can be found on the park's official website or at the park office/interpretive center.

Trail & Path Info

Sawmill Lake Campground provides excellent access to High Point State Park's extensive trail system, which covers over 50 miles.

• Trails range from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain climbs.
• Notable trails include a section of the Appalachian Trail, the Monument Trail (leading to the High Point Monument), and various trails around Sawmill Lake and Lake Marcia.
• Trail maps are available at the park office and on the park's website.

Things to See & Do

Beyond camping, Sawmill Lake and High Point State Park offer numerous activities:

• High Point Monument: Climb the 220-foot monument for panoramic views of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York.
• Hiking: Explore diverse trails suitable for all skill levels.
• Swimming: Permitted at the lifeguarded beach at Lake Marcia (seasonal).
• Fishing: Anglers can fish for bass, pickerel, and panfish in Sawmill Lake and Lake Marcia (NJ fishing license required).
• Boating: Non-motorized boats (kayaks, canoes, rowboats) are permitted on Sawmill Lake and Lake Marcia. No boat launch facilities are available at Sawmill Lake; car-top launch only.
• Picnicking: Designated picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the park.
• Nature Observation: The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including opportunities for birdwatching.
• Winter Sports (outside campground season): Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing are popular in other areas of the park during winter.

Best Time of Year to Visit

For camping at Sawmill Lake Campground:

• Late Spring (May-June): Pleasant weather, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds than mid-summer.
• Summer (July-August): Warmest weather, ideal for swimming in Lake Marcia. Can be busy.
• Early Fall (September-October): Cooler temperatures, stunning fall foliage, and typically fewer insects. This is often considered the prime camping season by many.

Trip Ideas

Here are some ideas for your camping trip:

• Weekend Nature Escape: Set up camp, hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail, enjoy an afternoon swimming or fishing at the lake, and cap it off with a visit to the High Point Monument at sunset.
• Family Camping Adventure: Spend a few days exploring different trails suitable for kids, participate in a park nature program, enjoy picnics, and tell stories around the campfire.
• Hiking-Focused Trip: Use the campground as a base to tackle several of the park's more challenging trails, enjoying the diverse terrain and views.

Tips and Tricks

Make your camping trip smoother with these tips:

• Book Early: Campsites, especially for weekends and holidays, can fill up months in advance. Reserve through camping.nj.gov.
• Prepare for Variable Weather: Mountain weather can change quickly. Pack layers, including rain gear, even in summer.
• Bear Safety is Crucial: Strictly adhere to all food storage and bear safety guidelines.
• Bring Insect Repellent: Especially during warmer months.
• Firewood: Purchase firewood locally or at the park (if available) to prevent the spread of invasive insects. Do not bring firewood from outside the immediate area.
• Check Monument Hours: If you plan to climb the High Point Monument, verify its operating hours.

Hours / Season of Operation

• Sawmill Lake Campground Season: Typically operates from mid-May to mid-October. Check https://www.camping.nj.gov for exact dates.
• Check-in Time: Usually 3:00 PM.
• Check-out Time: Usually 12:00 PM (Noon).
• High Point State Park Hours: Generally open daily from 8:00 AM to dusk. Office hours may vary.

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. Fee: NJ Resident $20 per night; Non Resident $25 per night.

Pet Friendly Campsites License and innoculation paperwork requirements and additional cost. Pet friendly Sawmill Lake sites 29-50

Group campsites: Two group campsites with drinking water and pit toilets. Each campsite accommodates up to 25 people. Open year round. During the winter months visitors must bring in their own water or obtain it at the park office. Fee: NJ Resident $50 per night; Non Resident $100 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. Fee: NJ Resident $75 per night; 525 per week; Non Resident $85 per night; $595 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 to October 15. Fee: NJ Resident $175 per night; Two-night minimum; Non Resident $185 per night; Two-night minimum.

Below are a few groups that we have connected to Sawmill Lake Campground at High Point. If we are missing any, please let us know

• Friends of High Point State Park
• New Jersey State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites