As a Sussex County resident, I am so lucky to enjoy all that Lake Hopatcong has to offer year round. Although there are so many exciting things to do in the fall, spring, and winter, the summer is my favorite season to enjoy the lake. From boating to fishing to hiking, there is something for everyone!
For those that don’t know, Lake Hopatcong is located in North Jersey in both Morris and Sussex County. It is the largest freshwater lake in New Jersey, and it can be accessed through multiple towns. The lake is open year round for exciting adventures and wonderful learning opportunities. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy the lake this summer!
Fun Things To Do Near Lake Hopatcong This Summer
Go Hiking
North Jersey is the home to some of the most amazing hiking trails, and the Lake Hopatcong Trail is no exception. Although there are multiple trails near the lake, our favorite is the one that takes you to Liffy Island. It can be accessed by taking the James Leach Boardwalk Trail at Prospect Point. It is a wide, dirt and gravel trail that guests can use for running, hiking, walking, or even riding your bike. It is about a one mile hike before reaching the bridge to Liffy Island. Once on the island, you can relax, have a picnic, go fishing, or just explore!
Take a Ride on Miss. Lotta
Lake Hopatcong Cruises started in 2014 and has been a hit among residents and visitors from the start. Each cruise takes place on the beautiful Miss Lotta, a 57-foot SkipperLiner dinner cruise vessel. It boasts a completely refurbished dining room with a full bar. Miss. Lotta also offers a covered upper deck allowing guests to feel the wind in their hair and the sun on their face. All summer long, Miss. Lotta offers amazing cruises; however, I recommend one of the historical cruises. Lake Hopatcong has so much rich history, and this cruise gives you a firsthand look at all of its wonder and glory.
Check out a Concert Under the Stars
This summer, the Windlass is offering 13 weeks of the Music Under the Stars concert series. Beginning June 22, guests can enjoy live music paired with great food and cocktails. Check out the amazing list of bands here!
Play Mini Golf
After enjoying a wonderful cruise on the lake, let the family play an exciting game of mini golf at Lake Hopatcong Golf Club. It is an 18-hole course with gorgeous views of the lake. While playing, guests will learn about the history of Lake Hopatcong at each hole.
Go on an Adventure
If hiking and golf aren’t for you, then how about biking, kayaking, or riding a pedalboard? The Lake Hopatcong Adventure Co. offers unique adventures for all levels of thrill seekers. In addition to guided hikes, the Adventure Co. offers biking tours to Liffy Island. If you prefer fun on the water, then sign up for a pedalboard, kayaking, or hydrobike excursion. Each tour is a great way to explore Lake Hopatcong while also fitting in some exercising.
Dine Lakefront
There are so many incredible dining options around Lake Hopatcong with many offering outdoor dining with gorgeous views. Whether it’s breakfast at Lola’s, dinner at Pavinci’s, or listening to a band at Patrick’s Pub, there is a dining experience for everyone. The Windlass and Stone Water are two more amazing options for dining on the lake.
Visit Hopatcong State Park
Hopatcong State Park is a year round destination for all ages. In the summer, the park offers a wonderful variety of experiences and activities. There are plenty of picnic tables and grills allowing families and friends to set up for a day filled with fun. Guests can enjoy fishing, playing beach volleyball, exploring the playground, playing basketball, swimming, hiking, building sand castles, and more. There is also a boating ramp. Hopatcong State Park is open to the public so make sure to get there early, especially on the weekends, because it fills to capacity quickly.
Take a Class on the Floating Classroom
This summer, the Lake Hopatcong Foundation offers an exciting hands-on learning adventure on the Floating Classroom. We were lucky enough to enjoy this experience a few years ago, and I am so happy it has returned. It is perfect for scout groups, day camps, school trips, and families. Participants will engage in experiments by collecting and studying lake water samples. Classes take place every Monday July 11 through August 29 11am-12:30pm, and they depart from the Hopatcong State Park.
Visit the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum
Located within the Hopatcong State Park, the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum takes guests on a journey through time. While exploring the museum, you will learn all about the lake’s rich and unique history. Exhibits consist of both photos and memorabilia. This summer, the museum is open June 30, July 26, and August 22. Guests can also schedule appointments for other days. I recommend scheduling a tour for your scout group!
Go Fishing
Lake Hopatcong is a MUST visit destination for fishing enthusiasts! The lake is stocked by the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife with a wide variety of fish including trout, catfish, perch, large mouth bass, and pickerel. Fishermen of all ages and levels can also join the Knee Deep Club for fun events and contests.
Rent a Boat
There is really no better way to explore Lake Hopatcong than by boat! Whether it’s fishing, tubing, water skiing, or just relaxing and enjoying the sun, a boat trip on the lake is a MUST DO adventure for all ages. If you don’t own a boat, don’t worry. There are plenty of places to rent one on the lake including Lake’s End Marina, Bridge Marina, and Lakeview Marina.
What Lake Hopatcong Adventure are you most excited about?
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