Stillwater Township New JerseyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Stillwater Township, New Jersey.
1. Swartswood State Park
HISTORIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Swartswood State Park, established in 1914, was the first state park created by the state of New Jersey and spans 1,774 acres on the shores of both Swartswood and Little Swartswood Lakes. The park offers numerous summer activities including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and has facilities for picnicking and camping. Swartswood Lake was once a major resort destination in the early 1900s when weekenders would take the train into nearby Blairstown through the 1940s.
2. Stillwater Mill
HISTORIC INDUSTRIAL LANDMARK
The Stillwater Mill stands as one of the historical highlights in Stillwater Township, showcasing the area's industrial heritage. The mill represents an important piece of the township's early development and economic history. Visitors can appreciate the architectural features and learn about the role the mill played in the community's growth.
3. Casper Shafer House
COLONIAL STONE ARCHITECTURE
The Casper Shafer House is a historic stone structure with an ornate porch located near the Stillwater Mill. This significant landmark was the home of Casper Shafer, who was one of the first three settlers of Stillwater Township. The house showcases colonial architecture and provides visitors with a glimpse into the area's earliest European settlement.
4. First Presbyterian Church of Stillwater
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
The First Presbyterian Church stands as the most prominent feature in Stillwater village, showcasing historical religious architecture. The church has served as a spiritual and community center for generations of Stillwater residents. Its distinctive structure makes it a must-see landmark for those interested in historical buildings and local heritage.
5. The Academy
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Academy, located opposite the Presbyterian Church, is a former schoolhouse that now serves as the Historical Society of Stillwater Township museum. This preserved building offers visitors insight into the educational and social history of Stillwater Township. The museum is open on Sunday afternoons throughout the summer, providing an opportunity to explore local artifacts and exhibits.
6. Whitehall
HISTORIC MANSION ESTATE
Whitehall is a large historic house surrounded by a distinctive white fence near the center of Stillwater village. The impressive estate was built by Nathan Armstrong Shafer, son of early settler Casper Shafer, and was once owned by poet Joyce Kilmer's widow, Aline Murray Kilmer. The property represents the prosperity of early influential families in the region and their architectural tastes.
7. Paulinskill Lake
SCENIC RECREATIONAL WATERWAY
Paulinskill Lake was created in the 1920s when the Paulinskill River was dammed, transforming the area into a picturesque recreational destination. The lake, initially developed as a collection of summer residences, has evolved into primarily a year-round community. Visitors can enjoy water activities, appreciate the scenic beauty, and observe the architectural variety of homes surrounding the lake.
8. Windy Brow Farms
FARM-FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Windy Brow Farms offers visitors a quintessential farm experience near Stillwater Township with highly-rated agricultural tourism activities. The farm provides seasonal pick-your-own fruit opportunities, farm-fresh products, and homemade ice cream and baked goods. Families can enjoy the pastoral setting while learning about local agriculture and sampling delicious farm-to-table offerings.
9. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
NATURAL SCENIC WONDER
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area encompasses 70,000 acres of breathtaking natural landscape near Stillwater Township. This protected area offers visitors miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and access to the Delaware River for swimming, boating, and fishing. The recreation area's diverse ecosystem provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and outdoor recreation throughout the year.
10. North Shore Inn Site
HISTORIC LAKESIDE RESORT
The North Shore Inn site, visible across Swartswood Lake, was once a booming hotel that catered to visitors seeking lakeside relaxation. This historical location represents the area's heyday as a resort destination in the early 20th century when urban dwellers sought escape from city life. Though the original structure may no longer be in its original form, the site offers historical perspective on the changing patterns of tourism and recreation in the region.
11. The Former Casino
VINTAGE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The site of the former Casino in Stillwater Township represents a bygone era of lakeside entertainment and social gathering. During the early 20th century, this entertainment venue would have provided recreation and amusement for summer visitors and locals alike. The location connects modern visitors to the area's history as a vibrant resort destination when Swartswood Lake attracted tourists from urban areas seeking countryside leisure.
12. The Dove Island Inn
HISTORIC LAKESIDE LODGING
The Dove Island Inn, now a private home, was once a popular accommodation option for visitors to the Swartswood Lake area. This historic building represents the golden age of lake tourism in Stillwater Township during the early 20th century. While no longer serving as a public inn, the structure maintains architectural elements that showcase its history as part of the area's hospitality heritage.
13. Blairstown Farmers' Market
LOCAL FARM-FRESH GOODS
The Blairstown Farmers' Market provides a vibrant shopping experience near Stillwater Township where visitors can purchase locally grown produce and artisanal products. Vendors offer seasonal vegetables, fruits, baked goods, handcrafted items, and specialty foods reflecting the agricultural bounty of the region. The market creates a community gathering space that connects consumers directly with local farmers and craftspeople.
14. Kittatinny Valley State Park
DIVERSE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Kittatinny Valley State Park, located near Stillwater Township, encompasses over 5,600 acres with diverse landscapes including limestone outcroppings, grasslands, wetlands, and forests. The park offers extensive recreational opportunities with more than 18 miles of hiking trails, fishing access to Lake Aeroflex and Gardner's Pond, and winter activities including cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Visitors can also explore the park's rich history, including the remains of the historic Sussex Branch and Paulinskill Valley rail trails.
15. The Boat House Restaurant
LAKESIDE DINING EXPERIENCE
The Boat House Restaurant offers diners a picturesque setting on Swartswood Lake with scenic water views enhancing the meal experience. The menu features a variety of fresh options, often highlighting local ingredients and seasonal specialties. Visitors can enjoy both the quality cuisine and the nostalgic atmosphere that connects to the area's history as a lake resort destination.