7 Best Lakeside Towns In New Jersey

Ready to explore some of New Jersey’s prettiest lakeside retreats? Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Hudson River, New Jersey is home to idyllic towns set against a backdrop of natural beauty. Steeped in tradition with roots dating back to colonial times, the state boasts towns that seamlessly blend history with nature. Sparta, Clinton, and Tuckerton provide a quiet setting to unwind by peaceful waters, explore historic sites, and enjoy a mix of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a restful escape, these towns offer the perfect combination of old-world charm and modern convenience. Pack your bags and get ready to hit the road—these gorgeous lakeside towns await.

Medford

Medford Lakes is a scenic oasis where nature and community harmonize perfectly. With multiple interconnecting lakes, residents have opportunities to swim, kayak, and fish, particularly at Beach 1 on Lower Aetna Lake, which boasts a dock, pavilion, and volleyball court. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails, boat tours, and summer camp activities at the YMCA of the Pines (formerly Camp Ockanickon) in its wooded 800-acre retreat.

In addition to water activities, Freedom Park features walking trails, picnicking spots, and a dog park, making it a favorite gathering place. The town’s log-cabin-style architecture has a unique appeal, best appreciated in the Medford Lakes Historic District. The Canoe Carnival, which unites residents in a fun competition, features intricately designed canoes in a lively celebration of the town’s heritage.

Mountain Lakes

Mountain Lakes beautifully combines outdoor recreation with historic charm. Tourne County Park offers hiking trails, birdwatching spots, and views of the New York City skyline, a nature lover’s dream. Hapgood Homes preserves the architectural history of the town with 454 original Craftsman-style homes, reflective of early 20th-century Arts and Crafts design.

Recreation features clay tennis courts in a forested setting at the Park Lakes Tennis & Paddle Club, providing a relaxed and competitive environment. Halsey Frederick Park features walking trails and open spaces, another outdoor favorite. Morristown’s central business district, a short drive away, offers activities such as the Mayo Performing Arts Center, with live concerts, Broadway performances, and cultural events, ensuring a lively mix of activities.

Woodcliff Lake

Woodcliff Lake is a serene community that combines nature with modern convenience. The Woodcliff Lake Reservoir provides waterfront views, walking paths, and birdwatching opportunities, making it a peaceful retreat for wilderness explorers. Within proximity, there’s Old Mill Park with walking trails, picnicking areas, and shaded green spaces, offering a great spot to relax. Within the park, the Old Mill Pool Complex features a public swimming pool, water slide, playground, and seasonal picnic area, providing recreational amenities to the community.

For shopping and dining, Tice’s Corner Marketplace offers boutiques, specialty stores, and local eateries in a pleasant outdoor setting. Whether enjoying nature’s splendor at the reservoir, strolling in the park, or shopping in local stores, Woodcliff Lake offers a scenic retreat with easy access to modern amenities.

Vernon Township

Vernon Township is a nature enthusiast’s haven, offering natural beauty and adventure. The Highland Lakes area features seven interconnected lakes with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boat tours. Hikers can challenge themselves with the Stairway to Heaven Trail, leading to Pinwheel Vista, which offers panoramic views. Wawayanda State Park features Wawayanda Lake, a glacially sculpted, spring-fed lake with opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Winter sports enthusiasts have skiing and snowboarding to look forward to at Mountain Creek Resort, and summer visitors can enjoy the resort’s water park. TreEscape Aerial Adventure Park offers tree-top adventure courses and zip lines, ensuring a fun-filled experience.

Tuckerton

Tuckerton is a coastal town in Ocean County with a rich maritime history and natural beauty. The Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen’s Museum, a working maritime museum and village, includes historic exhibitions, hands-on demonstrations, and seasonal festivals celebrating local seafaring history. Nearby, the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge offers birdwatching trails, hiking paths, and opportunities to explore a variety of coastal environments, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.

To relax in nature, Tip Seaman County Park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and views of Lake Pohatcong, making it ideal for a family day out. With proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the town provides opportunities for water sports, fishing, and boating, making it a magnet for water sports enthusiasts.

Clinton

Clinton is a heritage-rich borough in Hunterdon County with a beautiful riverfront and cultural sites. The South Branch Raritan River runs through the borough and empties into Spruce Run Reservoir, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and shore hiking. Camping, picnicking, and forest trails can be explored in the nearby Spruce Run Recreation Area, a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts.

At the heart of town, the Red Mill Museum Village, a restored 19th-century mill, offers a glimpse into Clinton’s industrial history. Across the river, contemporary art and craft exhibitions are showcased in a historic stone mill at the Hunterdon Art Museum. Clinton’s central business district, with its boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, adds to the charm of the town, and the Landsdown Trail offers a serene route for walking, jogging, and biking through scenic countryside.

Sparta

Sparta, located in Sussex County, New Jersey, features picturesque scenery and outdoor activities. Lake Mohawk, a man-made private lake, lies at the center of the town and features Alpine-style architecture. LMCC Beach 5 and LMCC Beach 6, or “Balanced Rock,” are part of the lake and offer private beaches for residents. The Lake Mohawk Country Club features a private 18-hole golf course, further enhancing the town’s appeal to golfers.

For outdoor lovers, High Point State Park offers hiking trails, picnicking spots, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a nature lover’s dream destination. Lake Mohawk’s public beach provides a great place to relax and enjoy a view of the lake, perfect for a family outing or a peaceful experience by the water.

Your Next Lakeside Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, New Jersey’s lakeside towns offer something for everyone. From Lake Mohawk’s serene waters to High Point State Park’s panoramic views, these towns provide the perfect combination of outdoor recreation, nature, and history. Enjoy the tranquil lakes, stroll through green forests, or immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine. Each town offers a unique experience, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway. Grab your bag and get moving—these lakeside towns are ready to provide you with the ultimate escape. Your next adventure is just around the corner.