If you are searching for Highland Lakes NJ, you may be interested in more than just the location. You may want to know how many lakes are there, whether you can swim or fish, what homes cost, how the private community works, what the annual dues are, which schools serve the area, and what it is like to live there year-round.
Highland Lakes, New Jersey, is a private lake community in Vernon Township, Sussex County. It covers roughly two square miles and is built around five lakes, seven beaches, a clubhouse, private roads, and numerous recreational facilities. The community has approximately 1,975 private homes and a large number of vacant lots.
For buyers and renters, the biggest attraction is the combination of lake access and residential living. Residents can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, sports, hiking, community events, and other activities without having to travel far from home.
What Is Highland Lakes NJ?
Highland Lakes is a private, members-only lake community in Vernon Township, New Jersey. The community began as a summer retreat in the 1930s and gradually developed into a year-round residential community. Today, approximately 2,000 families belong to the community.
The community is operated through the Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Association. Its members are governed by bylaws and community rules, while an elected board and committees oversee various aspects of community life.
The private structure is important for anyone considering purchasing property here. Buying a home is not simply a real estate transaction; ownership also comes with community membership obligations, dues, rules, and access privileges.
Where Is Highland Lakes NJ?
Highland Lakes is located in Vernon Township in Sussex County, New Jersey, in the northwestern part of the state.
The community’s physical setting is one of its defining characteristics. Highland Lakes sits at a relatively high elevation, with the community website listing the area at approximately 1,270 feet above sea level. It is surrounded by wooded terrain and numerous outdoor recreation opportunities.
The official community office is located at:
2240 Lakeside Drive West
Highland Lakes, NJ 07422
The community’s listed ZIP code is 07422.
Its location can appeal to people who want a quieter lake-oriented lifestyle while remaining within reach of northern New Jersey and nearby New York communities.
Highland Lakes NJ Map and Directions
Highland Lakes is situated within Vernon Township, with community roads connecting the residential sections to the area’s larger roads.
If you are visiting a particular home, beach, or community facility, use the exact property or facility address rather than simply entering “Highland Lakes” into a navigation app. The community contains many private roads and different sections, so the final destination can matter.
The clubhouse and community office are located at 2240 Lakeside Drive West, near Beach 2.
Prospective buyers should also remember that Highland Lakes contains a network of private roads. The community says its annual dues help maintain approximately 32 miles of private roads.
How Many Lakes Are in Highland Lakes NJ?
Highland Lakes has five lakes and a lagoon within the community.
The five lakes are central to the area’s identity and provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, sailing, and simply enjoying waterfront scenery. The community also has seven beaches located around the lakes.
The lakes are not simply decorative features. They are actively maintained by the community, with lake monitoring, water-quality management, dam management, and fish stocking included among the services supported by community dues.
Highland Lakes NJ Beaches
One of the biggest attractions of the community is its seven beaches.
The current community information identifies the following beach locations:
- Beach 1 — Breakneck Road
- Beach 2 — Lakeside Drive West
- Beach 3 — Lakeside Drive East
- Beach 4 — Lakeside Drive East
- Beach 5 — East Lakeshore Drive
- Beach 6 — West Lakeshore Drive
- Beach 7 — Upper Highland Lakes Drive
The beaches provide spaces for swimming, relaxing, picnicking, and community recreation.
During the regular summer season, lifeguards are stationed at designated beaches, while some beaches operate without lifeguards. The community publishes seasonal schedules, so residents should always check the current schedule before visiting.
Can You Swim in Highland Lakes NJ?
Yes. Swimming is an important part of Highland Lakes life.
The community’s beaches are tested during the bathing season, and the beaches are regularly inspected through the local health authorities. Certified lifeguards are stationed at designated locations during the summer season.
Swimming lessons are also available for children of members. The lessons are taught by certified Highland Lakes lifeguards and are intended to help children develop safe swimming skills.
However, residents and guests need to follow posted beach and swimming rules. Swimming outside supervised areas can involve additional risks, so visitors should follow the current community safety guidance.
Can You Boat on Highland Lakes?
Yes. Boating is another major reason people choose Highland Lakes.
Members can use several types of boats, including:
- Kayaks
- Canoes
- Rowboats
- Paddle boats
- Pontoon boats
- Small pleasure boats
- Sailboats
The community has specific boating restrictions. Its published rules state that electric motors are limited to 10 horsepower, with a maximum speed of 10 miles per hour.
These restrictions help maintain a recreational environment that is suitable for fishing, paddling, sailing, and relaxed boating.
If you are buying a property because of boating access, ask about current boat permits, docking rules, storage, and registration requirements before purchasing.
Highland Lakes NJ Fishing
Fishing is available throughout the year.
The community states that its lakes are stocked annually, which supports recreational fishing.
For someone who enjoys fishing, having access to community lakes can be a major lifestyle benefit. Residents do not need to plan a long trip to find a place to cast a line.
Fishing regulations can change, so members should check the current community rules regarding permitted equipment, locations, seasons, and other requirements.
Highland Lakes NJ Lake Health and Maintenance
Lakefront living requires ongoing maintenance, and Highland Lakes has systems in place to monitor and care for its lakes.
The community states that the dams serving the five lakes have been rehabilitated to current legal standards and are inspected every two years by an engineering firm. It also works with lake-management and environmental consultants on issues such as aquatic vegetation, algae, and water chemistry.
During the bathing season, the community’s seven beaches and swimming lanes are tested for E. coli, with results reported to the Sussex County Health Department.
This type of infrastructure is important because maintaining a private lake community involves much more than maintaining individual homes.
Highland Lakes NJ Community Amenities
Highland Lakes offers a wide selection of recreational amenities.
Community facilities include:
- Five lakes
- Seven beaches
- Clubhouse
- Ball fields
- Tennis courts
- Basketball courts
- Playgrounds
- Picnic areas
- Dock areas
- Swimming areas
- Recreational spaces
- Private roads
The community also organizes numerous sports and social activities throughout the year.
Highland Lakes Clubhouse
The clubhouse is an important center of community life.
It is located next to Beach 2 and hosts many community-sponsored activities and events. The property also includes the club office, security functions, activities center, park, picnic areas, and dock areas.
The main lake near the clubhouse is also used by sailors, boaters, and fishermen.
For residents, the clubhouse provides something that many ordinary residential neighborhoods do not have: a central place where community members can gather, participate in activities, and meet their neighbors.
Things to Do in Highland Lakes NJ
There is a wide range of things to do in Highland Lakes.
Swimming
Residents can enjoy designated beaches and swimming areas during the appropriate season.
Boating
Kayaking, canoeing, sailing, rowing, paddle boating, and other approved boating activities are available.
Fishing
The stocked lakes provide year-round recreational fishing.
Hiking
The community offers access to outdoor areas and hiking opportunities.
Tennis and Basketball
Residents can participate in traditional sports using community courts.
Soccer and Softball
Ball fields support organized recreational activities.
Sailing
Sailing is an established part of the community, particularly around the main lake.
Social Activities
Bocce, bowling, volleyball, golf, water aerobics, and other activities are among the community’s offerings.
This variety makes Highland Lakes particularly attractive to households that want an active lifestyle.
Highland Lakes NJ Events and Community Life
Highland Lakes has an active community calendar and member-run activities.
The clubhouse serves as the center for many events, while different committees and clubs organize recreational and social activities. The community also publishes the Highland Lakes Newsette, which contains community news, activities, and member contributions.
The community structure can be especially appealing if you enjoy meeting neighbors and becoming involved locally.
Highland Lakes NJ Homes
Highland Lakes contains approximately 1,975 private homes. The community also includes vacant lots, with the official sources currently reporting around 190 to 230 lots depending on the source and date.
Homes can vary substantially in:
- Size
- Age
- Lot size
- Lake proximity
- Lake views
- Renovation level
- Number of bedrooms
- Number of bathrooms
- Parking
- Outdoor space
- Water and septic arrangements
A home directly on a lake can offer a very different lifestyle from a home located farther inland within the same community.
Highland Lakes NJ Lakefront Homes
Lakefront homes are naturally among the most desirable properties for people specifically searching for lake living.
However, buyers should not assume that every property near a lake has identical rights or access.
Before buying a lakefront or lake-adjacent property, investigate:
- Exact property boundaries
- Waterfront rights
- Docking rights
- Boat permits
- Beach access
- Lake restrictions
- Easements
- Shoreline conditions
- Insurance
- Flood-related considerations
- Maintenance responsibilities
A local real estate professional and attorney can help clarify property-specific rights before closing.
Highland Lakes NJ Real Estate
Highland Lakes real estate can appeal to buyers who want a combination of homeownership and private lake-community amenities.
Property values can vary widely depending on location, condition, size, views, and lake access. Historical community publications show that Highland Lakes has included homes at a broad range of prices, but old sales should not be treated as current market values.
If you are searching for Highland Lakes NJ homes for sale, compare current listings rather than relying on older articles or previous sales.
A good real estate comparison should consider the total ownership cost, not just the asking price.
Highland Lakes NJ Property Taxes
Property taxes are separate from Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Association dues.
When calculating your housing budget, consider both:
Property taxes + community dues + mortgage + insurance + utilities + maintenance
The exact property-tax amount depends on the individual property and its assessed value.
Buyers should request the current tax information for the specific home they are considering and verify it with the appropriate local records.
Highland Lakes NJ Annual Dues
Community dues are one of the most important financial considerations.
For 2026, Highland Lakes lists annual dues of:
- $1,440 for homeowners
- $912 for vacant-lot owners
The community explains that dues help support many shared services, including:
- Maintenance of approximately 32 miles of private roads
- Lake monitoring and maintenance
- Insurance
- Community facilities
- Utilities
- Security patrol
- Dam management
- Lifeguards
- Swimming lessons
- Fish stocking
- Other community services
Dues and assessments can change, so prospective buyers should confirm the current amount before closing.
Highland Lakes NJ Initiation Fee
New property owners are currently subject to a $2,000 initiation fee when title to the property is acquired, according to the community’s current “Before You Buy” information. Additional fees or circumstances can apply depending on the ownership transfer.
This means buyers should include the initiation fee in their closing-cost calculations.
It is also important to understand that ownership changes can include more than a traditional sale. The community lists examples such as adding someone to a deed or transferring property between a trust and an individual.
Is Highland Lakes NJ a Private Community?
Yes. Highland Lakes is a private lake community.
Members and guests must follow community rules and use the appropriate badges and permits. New members are required to register with the Club Office to obtain household badges and permits.
The private model helps fund and maintain community amenities, but it also means residents have obligations that would not normally exist in a standard neighborhood.
Before purchasing, review the current bylaws and rules so you understand what you can and cannot do with your property and community facilities.
Highland Lakes NJ Membership and Beach Access
Membership is an important part of owning property in Highland Lakes.
Homeowners’ annual dues provide membership privileges, including badges and certain boating, docking, and parking permits for owners and household members. Guests can obtain daily wristbands through members for access to beaches and recreational facilities.
This distinction is important for buyers. Having a home in Highland Lakes is connected to membership in the community, but specific amenities and permits can have their own rules.
Highland Lakes NJ Rental Rules
If you plan to purchase a property as an investment or rent your home in the future, understand the rental restrictions before buying.
The community states that both Highland Lakes and Vernon Township have rules governing long- and short-term rentals.
Under the current community policy, owners can rent their homes on a long-term basis after the transfer of title, while short-term rentals are permitted after the owner has held title for two years.
This is particularly important for anyone considering Airbnb-style or vacation rentals.
Always verify the latest community rental policy and Vernon Township ordinances before purchasing a property for rental purposes.
Highland Lakes NJ Apartments and Rentals
People searching for Highland Lakes NJ apartments should understand that Highland Lakes itself is primarily a private residential community of individual homes.
Rental inventory directly inside the community can therefore be more limited than in a conventional apartment market.
If you want to rent inside Highland Lakes, you may find individual houses rather than a large apartment complex. Nearby Vernon Township also offers additional rental options.
Before renting, confirm whether the rental provides access to community beaches, boating, recreational facilities, and other membership privileges.
Highland Lakes NJ Schools
Highland Lakes is located within Vernon Township, so families considering a move should research the current Vernon Township school assignments for their specific address.
Community resources list local schools including:
- Cedar Mountain Primary School
- Walnut Ridge Primary School
- Rolling Hills Primary School
- Lounsberry Hollow School
- Glen Meadow Middle School
- Vernon Township High School
School boundaries and grade assignments can change, so prospective families should verify the exact school assignment directly with the school district before purchasing or renting.
Highland Lakes NJ Weather and Seasons
Highland Lakes experiences four distinct seasons.
Summer is especially important for the community because swimming, boating, sailing, fishing, and beach activities become central to daily life.
Fall can bring colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, making the wooded environment attractive for outdoor activities.
Winter can bring cold weather and snow, while spring gradually returns the area to warmer outdoor conditions.
The seasonal changes are an important part of the Highland Lakes lifestyle. If you are considering moving from a warmer climate, visit the community during more than one season before making a decision.
Highland Lakes NJ Nearby Towns and Attractions
Highland Lakes is located in an outdoor-oriented part of northern New Jersey.
Nearby communities and destinations provide additional opportunities for:
- Restaurants
- Shopping
- Hiking
- Skiing
- Parks
- Golf
- Entertainment
- Outdoor recreation
Vernon Township itself is known for its extensive recreational landscape, while nearby New York communities are also accessible from the area.
The Highland Lakes community website highlights its location as approximately 15 minutes from Warwick, New York, and about 47 miles from New York City.
Actual travel time can vary significantly with traffic, weather, and your starting point.
Is Highland Lakes NJ Good for Families?
Highland Lakes can be a strong choice for families who enjoy outdoor activities and community life.
Children can participate in:
- Swimming
- Swimming lessons
- Boating
- Fishing
- Soccer
- Basketball
- Tennis
- Softball
- Hiking
- Community events
The seven beaches and playgrounds provide additional recreational opportunities.
The community environment can also encourage children and parents to meet other families through organized activities.
Families should still evaluate school assignments, commute times, childcare, healthcare access, and the condition of the specific home before making a decision.
Pros of Living in Highland Lakes NJ
Five Lakes and Seven Beaches
Few residential communities offer this combination of private lake access and multiple beaches.
Strong Outdoor Lifestyle
Swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, tennis, basketball, sailing, and other activities are available.
Community Atmosphere
The clubhouse, events, clubs, and committees create opportunities to meet neighbors.
Private Roads and Amenities
Community dues help support the private road network and shared facilities.
Family Activities
The combination of beaches, sports, playgrounds, swimming lessons, and community events can be attractive to families.
Year-Round Community
Highland Lakes developed from a seasonal retreat into a community with year-round homes and activities.
Cons of Living in Highland Lakes NJ
Community Dues
Homeowners pay annual dues in addition to normal property ownership costs.
Initiation Fee
New owners currently face a $2,000 initiation fee under the community’s published policy.
Community Rules
Owners and guests must follow association bylaws, rules, and permit requirements.
Rental Restrictions
Investors should pay close attention to the current rental policy, particularly for short-term rentals.
Private Infrastructure
The community maintains its own roads and other infrastructure, which contributes to the need for annual dues and assessments.
Property-Specific Maintenance
Lake and wooded properties can require additional attention to trees, drainage, water, septic systems, landscaping, and seasonal maintenance.
Things to Know Before Buying in Highland Lakes NJ
Before buying a Highland Lakes property, complete your due diligence.
Review Community Dues
Confirm the current annual dues and ask about pending or planned assessments.
Check Membership Requirements
Make sure you understand exactly what membership provides and which permits you receive.
Verify Lake Access
Do not assume that every property has the same lake, beach, docking, or boating rights.
Investigate Well and Septic Systems
If the property uses private water or septic infrastructure, have the appropriate professionals inspect those systems.
Review Rental Rules
If you plan to rent the home, understand the current Highland Lakes and Vernon Township rules before purchasing.
Check Private Road Requirements
Vacant lots can have additional development requirements. The community specifically warns that some lots are located along unimproved private roads and may require road improvements before a dwelling can be constructed.
Visit the Property
Online listings cannot show everything. Visit the home, drive the surrounding roads, inspect the neighborhood, and experience the area at different times of day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Highland Lakes NJ
Where is Highland Lakes NJ?
Highland Lakes is a private lake community in Vernon Township, Sussex County, New Jersey.
How many lakes are in Highland Lakes NJ?
The community has five lakes, along with a lagoon.
How many beaches are in Highland Lakes?
Highland Lakes has seven beaches.
Can you swim in Highland Lakes NJ?
Yes. Members can swim at designated community beaches, with lifeguards at specified locations during the summer season.
Can you fish in Highland Lakes?
Yes. Fishing is available year-round, and the community says its lakes are stocked annually.
Can you kayak in Highland Lakes?
Yes. Kayaks and canoes are among the types of boats permitted on the community’s lakes, subject to current rules.
Is Highland Lakes NJ private?
Yes. Highland Lakes is a private, members-only community operated by the Highland Lakes Country Club and Community Association.
How much are Highland Lakes NJ dues?
For 2026, the community lists annual dues of $1,440 for homes and $912 for vacant lots.
Does Highland Lakes have an initiation fee?
Yes. The current published policy lists a $2,000 initiation fee for new property owners when title is acquired, subject to the applicable rules.
Can you rent a home in Highland Lakes NJ?
Yes, but rentals are subject to Highland Lakes policies and Vernon Township requirements. Current community rules state that long-term rentals can begin after title transfer, while short-term rentals are permitted after the owner has held title for two years.
Is Highland Lakes NJ good for families?
It can be a good fit for families who value outdoor recreation, lake access, beaches, sports, swimming lessons, playgrounds, and community activities.
What ZIP code is Highland Lakes NJ?
The Highland Lakes community uses 07422.
What is the Highland Lakes NJ community like?
It is a private, recreation-focused residential community built around five lakes, seven beaches, a clubhouse, sports facilities, private roads, and organized community activities.
Final Thoughts
Highland Lakes NJ offers a distinctive form of lake living in Vernon Township, New Jersey. Its combination of five lakes, seven beaches, private roads, a clubhouse, sports facilities, boating, fishing, swimming, and community events makes it more than an ordinary residential neighborhood.
For families and outdoor enthusiasts, the community provides plenty to do throughout the year. Swimming and boating are especially popular during the warmer months, while fishing, hiking, sports, social activities, and community events provide additional opportunities beyond summer.
For prospective homeowners, however, the most important consideration is understanding the full cost and responsibilities of ownership. In addition to the home’s purchase price and property taxes, buyers should account for annual community dues, the current initiation fee, possible assessments, maintenance, insurance, and any property-specific well or septic costs.
It is also important to understand the private-community structure, membership requirements, beach and boating privileges, rental rules, and current regulations before buying.
If your ideal home includes lake access, outdoor recreation, private beaches, and an active neighborhood atmosphere, Highland Lakes can be an appealing place to explore. The best decision will come from comparing the specific property, its location within the community, its lake access, total ownership costs, and the current Highland Lakes rules before you commit.
I’m Charlotte Pembroke, and my passion for lakes began through travelling across the United Kingdom’s national parks. I enjoy learning about freshwater ecosystems, famous lakes, conservation, and the unique stories behind these incredible places.
I write to make geography and nature enjoyable for everyone, combining reliable research with clear explanations that readers of all ages can understand.
Books I’ve Written:
- Lakes of Britain: A Natural Journey
- Waters That Shaped History
Henry Ashford