Highland Lakes,
New Jersey.
An hour from the city.
A century away.
Highland Lakes is a private lake community tucked into the highlands of Vernon Township, in the far northern corner of New Jersey. Think beaches instead of boardwalks, sailboats instead of jet skis, and a clubhouse that still runs on bulletin-board energy.
Guests can pick up a day pass at the clubhouse for the beaches and swim docks. Beyond the lake: the Appalachian Trail boardwalk, Mountain Creek's slopes and waterpark, Warwick's orchards and wineries just over the New York line, and diners that take pancakes seriously.
Real darkness.
Actual stars.
No streetlights, no glow on the horizon — just cabin windows across the water and a sky that still does constellations. Bring a sweater, claim a chair by the firepit, look up.
The full area guide.
Trails, takeout, swimming holes, ski days, and where to get the good bagels — our complete Highland Lakes guide arrives with the Casa Trigono guest book. Until then, ask us anything.