Sawmill Lake Campground

Sawmill Lake Campground is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts located in the pristine wilderness of Sussex, New Jersey. Situated within the sprawling boundaries of High Point State Park, this campground offers a authentic "back to nature" experience that is increasingly rare in the busy Garden State. The campground is centered around the tranquil waters of Sawmill Lake, providing a scenic backdrop for families, solo adventurers, and groups looking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the environment. Known for its quiet atmosphere and lack of traffic noise, it serves as a premier destination for those who prefer the rustle of leaves and the call of local wildlife over the hum of the highway.

The campground is primarily designed for tent camping, creating an intimate and rustic environment. With 50 individual family campsites spaced thoughtfully along the lake’s edge and through the surrounding forest, residents of New Jersey can enjoy a sense of privacy and seclusion. Many of the sites feature wooden platforms or elevated areas to ensure a dry and level space for tents, a detail much appreciated by seasoned campers. Whether you are looking for a lakeside view to watch the sunrise or a sheltered spot among the hardwoods, Sawmill Lake Campground provides a well-maintained and professional setting for your next outdoor excursion.

Location and accessibility are major highlights for this Sussex County destination. Located deep within High Point State Park at the northernmost tip of New Jersey, the campground is accessible via Sawmill Road, just a short drive from Route 23. While the setting feels remote, it is conveniently located only about five minutes away from the main park office and the iconic High Point Monument. For those concerned with accessibility, the campground provides a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, and the park service has made efforts to ensure that key facilities, such as the park office and certain scenic overlooks, are reachable for all visitors. The drive into the campground itself is a scenic journey through some of the highest elevations in the state, offering breathtaking views before you even pitch your tent.

Accessibility also extends to the local trail network. Several world-class hiking trails are within walking distance of the campsites, including a direct link to the legendary Appalachian Trail. For families, the location is ideal because it provides easy access to the more developed areas of High Point State Park, such as the swimming facilities at Lake Marcia, while allowing them to retreat to the quiet of Sawmill Lake for the night. This balance of rugged isolation and proximity to park amenities makes it a versatile choice for campers of all experience levels.

• 50 designated tent-only campsites equipped with fire pits and heavy-duty picnic tables.
• Two large group campsites available for organizations and larger family gatherings, featuring drinking water and pit toilets.
• Clean and well-maintained public restrooms and pit toilets located conveniently throughout the camping loops.
• On-site running water available via hand pumps for cleaning and basic needs.
• Bear-proof trash receptacles and food storage guidance to ensure safety in "Bear Country."
• Professional on-site staff and park rangers who provide friendly assistance and regular patrols.
• Boat launch access for electric-powered boats, canoes, and kayaks on Sawmill Lake.
• Nearby access to hot showers and swimming at the Lake Marcia bathhouse (available seasonally).

The features and highlights of Sawmill Lake Campground are centered on its unparalleled access to the outdoors. One of the most significant draws is the proximity to High Point Monument, where visitors can stand at the highest point in New Jersey and see three different states. For those who enjoy the water, Sawmill Lake is a peaceful spot for fishing—stocked regularly with trout and bass—or for a quiet morning of paddling. The lack of through-traffic means the campground remains incredibly quiet, making it a favorite for those who value a good night's sleep under the stars. Additionally, the campground is dog-friendly, allowing your four-legged companions to join in on the adventure, provided they remain leashed and on designated pet-friendly sites.

• Stunning lakeside views and private, wooded sites that offer excellent seclusion.
• Excellent for kids, featuring kid-friendly hikes like the Blue Dot Trail which offers a great overlook of the lake.
• Direct access to over 50 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and nature study.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, from white-tailed deer to a variety of migratory birds.
• Picnic-ready sites that make it easy to enjoy outdoor meals with the whole family.
• A 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM quiet hour policy to ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.
• Proximity to the Appalachian Trail, allowing for easy day hikes on one of the world's most famous footpaths.

To plan your stay at Sawmill Lake Campground, reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the New Jersey State Park Service's official booking portal. For immediate inquiries or to speak with a park representative, you can contact the High Point State Park office directly. Please note that a permit is required for all overnight stays, and check-in must be completed at the main park office before heading to your site.

Address: Sawmill Road, Sussex, NJ 07461, USA

Phone: (973) 875-4800 (High Point State Park Office)

What is worth choosing about Sawmill Lake Campground is the authentic sense of escape it provides without requiring a trip out of state. For New Jersey residents, it is a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Kittatinny Mountains right in their own backyard. The campground's reputation for being "quiet and car-noise free" is a rare find in the Northeast and makes it well worth the trip for those who truly need to decompress. While the sites are rustic, the presence of wooden tent platforms and well-kept bathrooms ensures a level of comfort that makes the experience enjoyable even for those who are new to camping.

Furthermore, choosing this campground gives you "VIP access" to the best of High Point State Park. Being able to wake up and be on a trailhead within minutes, or taking a short five-minute drive to the monument for sunset, adds incredible value to your stay. The staff’s commitment to bear safety and cleanliness provides peace of mind for families with children. Whether you are there to catch the first trout of the season, hike a section of the AT, or simply enjoy a quiet picnic by the water, Sawmill Lake Campground offers a high-quality, professional, and friendly environment. It is a place where yearly traditions are born and where the natural beauty of New Jersey is on full display.

Would you like me to look up the current seasonal rates for NJ residents or provide a list of recommended "must-pack" items for bear-aware camping in Sussex County?