Why You Should Visit Lake Hopatcong State Park
As I expand my knowledge of New Jersey and things to do in the Garden State, I wanted to open your eyes to the beauty of Lake Hopatcong State Park.
Lake Hopatcong is the LARGEST body of fresh water (2,5000 acres) in New Jersey and forms part of the border of Morris and Sussex County. The park itself is located at the southwest end and is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, boating, and more.
If you love fishing and boating, you should definitely be making a trip up to this lake. There are plenty of great marinas where you can rent and buy boats. They also have restaurants on the lake, so you can take your boat to get some food and enjoy lakeside views.
You can also visit the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum to learn about local American Indian history, the Morris Canal and the history of the lake.
I had a chance to explore the area when I visited the Lake Hopatcong Block Party hosted by the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, whose board and volunteers aim to improve and enhance the lake experience and environment. The event featured 200 vendors, boat rides, a train ride, food, demonstrations and more!
I really enjoyed getting on the lake via Lake Hopatcong Cruises, getting gorgeous views of the lake. Despite the rain, it was still a beautiful day.
We also got a chance to take a small train to take in the views as well. From this view you can see the block party and the lake!
Overall I really enjoyed the annual block party, speaking to local vendors, clubs, environmental groups, crafters, food and more. I even met a pig!
It was also at this event I finally had a chance to meet the guys of 1 Potato Two, an award winning food truck out of Egg Harbor, NJ. Instead of bread for their sandwiches, they use potatoes aka the spudwich!! My husband and I shared a cheese steak potato sandwich…and it was delicious!
I also got a chance to talk to guys from Jefferson Dairy (741 NJ-15, Lake Hopatcong), a homemade ice cream place in the area.
We got to try their chocolate and vanilla…but they had so many fun flavors to explore. I will definitely be making my way there next time I’m in the area.
I’m glad that the block party got me out to Lake Hopatcong State Park. I am looking forward to going back! It’s important to get into nature!
