LAKE HOPATCONG
NEW JERSEY (NJ)

Lake Hopatcong is the largest lake in New Jersey and the most striking feature of Hopatcong State Park. The lake, 9 miles long and covered by 2,500 acres of glistening water, is used for fishing, boating and other water-related recreational activities. In addition to state facilities, services are available from privately ope4rated marinas located around the lake, including boat rentals and boat slips. For more information on fishing in Lake Hopatcong go to www.kneedeep.org.

Hopatcong State Park

 The State Park is situated at the southwest end of the lake, and is the perfect spot to take family or friends to swim, picnic, fish or just relax and enjoy the scenery. The park and lake are located in Morris and Sussex counties and can be reached from Route 80 (exit 28) or from Route 183 in Netcong in northern New Jersey. There is a lifeguard-protected beach at the park during the summer, plus a restroom facility containing changing areas, showers, a first aid room and a concession offering food and beach supplies.

The park has several picnics areas along the hill that overlooks the parking lot and the lakeshore. Charcoal grills and tables are provided, restrooms are nearby. For further information go to http://c21tekula.com/www.njparksandforests.org

History of Lake Hopatcong

Lake Hopatcong was originally two adjacent smaller lakes: Great Pond (or Huppakong Lake) and Little Pond (or Woodport Pond). These lakes were the headwaters of the Musconetcong River. In 1750, a dam was constructed across the river to provide power for a local iron forge. The dam raised the water level 5 feet and caused the two smaller lakes to merge into one lake. In the mid-1800s, the Morris Canal and Banking Company built another dam across the river, raising the water level of the lake an additional 6 feet and making it the main water source for the Morris Canal. The preset dam was constructed under the auspices of the state of New Jersey.

Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum.

The museum is operated by the Lake Hopatcong Historical Society and is located in the old Morris canal lock house. Exhibits include local Indian history, and the history of the Morris Canal and Lake Hopatcong. The museum is open noon to 4.00 pm Sunday from the third weekend of March through the third weekend of May, and the second weekend of September through November. For more information, call (973) 398-2616 or visit www.hopatcong.org/museum.