Highland Lakes is a picturesque man-made beach located in Vernon Township, New Jersey. The beach is approximately 0.2 miles long and features fine golden sand, making it perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, paddleboarding, fishing, and kayaking. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, and the area offers public restrooms. Dogs are allowed in designated areas, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere. The beach is part of a larger community that includes five private lakes and seven beaches, managed by the Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Association.
The surrounding area offers a mix of outdoor activities and scenic views, with nearby attractions such as the Appalachian Trail, Sussex County Fairgrounds, and Mountain Creek Resort. Visitors can also explore local farms, vineyards, and orchards.
Highland Lakes was developed in the 1930s as a summer retreat for families from the New York City area, transforming what were once rolling dairy farm hillsides into a vibrant community with lake-style homes and log cabins.