I’ve always been fascinated by the hidden corners of Northern New Jersey that offer a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life. Over the years, I’ve discovered some truly secluded neighborhoods that many might overlook.
These places, rich in natural beauty and charm, provide a peaceful retreat that’s hard to find elsewhere in the region. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or someone seeking solitude, I think these communities have something special to offer.
Here’s my countdown of 10 secluded neighborhoods in Northern New Jersey that I’ve come to love.
10. Johnsonburg – Frelinghuysen Township
Johnsonburg, part of Frelinghuysen Township, is a quiet hamlet surrounded by farmland and untouched landscapes. With a small population of just over 2,000 in the township, Johnsonburg offers spacious living away from crowded areas.
I appreciate the historic architecture, including buildings dating back to the 18th century. The community is peaceful, and local farms often offer fresh produce and seasonal activities like apple picking. For me, it’s the perfect blend of history, community, and seclusion.
Where is Johnsonburg?
Located in Warren County, Johnsonburg sits just off Route 94, north of Hackettstown. The hamlet is easily accessible yet maintains a feeling of being tucked away from it all. I often take the scenic drive along local roads, which wind through rolling hills and open fields.
The area’s geography, with its gentle terrain and rural vistas, contributes to the sense of tranquility. Despite its seclusion, Johnsonburg is conveniently situated near larger towns, providing a peaceful home base with access to amenities when needed.
9. Green Pond – Rockaway Township
Green Pond is a private lake community that immediately captivates me with its crystal-clear waters and serene environment. With limited access and around 800 residents, the area offers large homes nestled amidst scenic landscapes.
The lake itself is one of the cleanest in New Jersey, making it perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. I find the sense of community here strong, with residents often participating in lake preservation efforts and local events. The combination of natural beauty and exclusivity makes Green Pond a truly special place.
Where is Green Pond?
Situated in Rockaway Township, Morris County, Green Pond is accessed via Green Pond Road off Route 23. The drive into the community is enveloped by forests, enhancing its secluded feel. The area’s geography includes the surrounding Highlands region, which adds to the picturesque setting.
Although it’s just a short drive from Rockaway Townsquare Mall and other amenities, Green Pond feels like a world apart, providing a peaceful retreat that’s still convenient for daily needs.
8. Schooley’s Mountain – Washington Township
Schooley’s Mountain offers expansive views and generous lot sizes that have always drawn me to the area. The community sits atop a ridge, providing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys. With a population of about 18,000 in Washington Township, the neighborhood retains a secluded atmosphere.
I enjoy visiting the nearby Schooley’s Mountain County Park, which features hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas. The rich history, including its past as a 19th-century spa destination, adds to the charm of this hidden enclave.
Where is Schooley’s Mountain?
Located in Morris County, Schooley’s Mountain is accessible via Route 24 or Route 46, leading into the heart of Washington Township. The mountain’s elevation provides not only stunning views but also a sense of isolation from the busier lowlands.
I often take the meandering mountain roads to soak in the scenery and enjoy the peaceful drive. Despite its elevated position, the area is only about an hour’s drive from New York City, making it a secluded spot that’s still within reach of urban centers.
7. Long Pond – West Milford Township
Long Pond in West Milford Township is an area I’ve found to be incredibly peaceful, with sizable properties enveloped by forests and lakes. With around 26,000 residents in the township, the neighborhood itself feels much more intimate.
The proximity to the Highlands Region means there’s an abundance of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to fishing in the numerous lakes. I particularly enjoy the tranquility that comes from being surrounded by so much natural beauty, making Long Pond a perfect retreat.
Where is Long Pond?
Long Pond is situated in Passaic County, accessible via Greenwood Lake Turnpike or Route 23. Nestled among the hills and water bodies of the Highlands, the area offers a rugged yet serene landscape.
I find the drive into Long Pond to be calming, with winding roads that showcase the region’s natural splendor. Its location on the fringes of the New York-New Jersey border adds an extra layer of seclusion, while still being within commuting distance to larger towns and cities.
6. Hibernia – Rockaway Township
Surrounded by woodlands and state parks, Hibernia is a rustic setting that I find both charming and peaceful. The homes here are set on large lots, providing privacy amid the trees. The area has a rich mining history, with the remnants of old mines adding a touch of intrigue.
I enjoy exploring the Splitrock Reservoir and Farny State Park nearby, which offer hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. With a modest population in the immediate area, Hibernia feels like a hidden retreat within accessible reach.
Where is Hibernia?
Hibernia is located in Morris County, just north of Rockaway Township. It’s easily reached via Green Pond Road, which cuts through lush forests and past sparkling lakes. The geography is characterized by rolling hills and dense woodlands, enhancing its secluded atmosphere.
I appreciate that while Hibernia feels tucked away, it’s still close to major highways like Interstate 80, making it convenient for travel while maintaining its peaceful ambiance.
5. Fredon – Fredon Township
Fredon, with its rolling hills and expansive farmland, offers a serene rural atmosphere that’s hard to find in Northern New Jersey. Home to about 3,000 residents, the township boasts over 50% undeveloped land, giving it a spacious, open feel that I find incredibly refreshing.
The community is close-knit, and local events like the annual Fredon Day foster a strong sense of camaraderie. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and biking trails, and the nearby Bear Brook offers fishing opportunities. To me, Fredon’s combination of privacy and community makes it a hidden gem worth exploring.
Where is Fredon?
Located in Sussex County, Fredon Township lies just southwest of Newton. It’s easily accessible via Route 94, yet it feels worlds away from the busier towns. The hilly terrain and abundance of greenery make every drive through Fredon a scenic one.
I often take the back roads to fully appreciate the countryside views, especially during the fall when the foliage is breathtaking. Its rural setting doesn’t mean it’s isolated, though—it’s just the right distance from commercial hubs to maintain its tranquility while still offering convenience.
4. Walpack Center – Walpack Township
Tucked away within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Walpack Center feels like a step back in time. With an extraordinarily low population—only a handful of residents—the village offers a unique seclusion that’s rare in this part of the state.
I love wandering through its historic buildings, including an old post office and general store, which hint at its past life before the Tocks Island Dam project led to its depopulation.
The surrounding area is perfect for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the rich natural landscapes. With its quiet streets and untouched surroundings, Walpack Center truly epitomizes secluded living.
Where is Walpack Center?
Walpack Center is nestled in Sussex County, at the heart of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. This location means it’s enveloped by protected lands, offering unparalleled access to nature. I usually reach it by taking Route 615 off of Route 206, winding through dense forests and along the scenic Delaware River.
The isolation is part of its charm, but it’s also what makes the journey there so enchanting. The lack of major roadways keeps it peaceful, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to disconnect.
3. Layton – Sandyston Township
Bordering national parkland, Layton is a sparsely populated area that offers privacy and serenity in abundance. With a small population in Sandyston Township of about 1,900, Layton feels like a hidden oasis. I love visiting the Peters Valley School of Craft, a vibrant arts community nestled in the woods.
The nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area provides endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors. Layton’s blend of art, nature, and seclusion makes it a standout locale in my book.
Where is Layton?
Layton is situated in Sussex County, reachable via Route 560 off Route 206. The village is enveloped by the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which enhances its remote feel.
I often take the scenic drive along Old Mine Road, one of the country’s oldest roads, to reach Layton. The area’s proximity to the Delaware River adds to its natural appeal, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate both history and the outdoors.
2. Colesville – Wantage Township
A rural community surrounded by forests and farms, Colesville provides expansive acreages and a peaceful atmosphere that I find immensely appealing. With around 11,000 residents in Wantage Township, Colesville itself feels much smaller and more intimate.
The High Point State Park is nearby, offering the highest elevation in New Jersey and stunning panoramic views. I enjoy visiting local farms and markets, which add to the community’s rustic charm. Colesville’s combination of natural beauty and seclusion makes it one of my favorite spots in Northern New Jersey.
Where is Colesville?
Colesville is located in Sussex County, accessible via Route 23. The area is characterized by its rolling hills and farmland, which I find make for a picturesque setting.
The proximity to the Appalachian Trail and other outdoor attractions enhances its appeal for nature lovers like me. Despite its secluded feel, Colesville is not far from the towns of Sussex and Wantage, providing convenient access to amenities while maintaining its peaceful character.
1. Stag Hill – Mahwah Township
Nestled in the Ramapo Mountains, Stag Hill offers secluded living with large wooded lots and minimal development far from urban centers. With a population that’s difficult to quantify due to its dispersed homes and private roads, it feels like a world apart.
I appreciate the sense of exclusivity and tranquility that comes with being surrounded by nature. The area is rich in Native American history, and hiking trails offer glimpses of the region’s past. For me, Stag Hill represents the pinnacle of secluded living in Northern New Jersey.
Where is Stag Hill?
Stag Hill is located within Mahwah Township in Bergen County, accessible via Stag Hill Road off Route 17. The mountain terrain and dense forests create a natural barrier that enhances its seclusion.
I find the drive up the hill to be both scenic and calming, with views of the surrounding mountains. Despite feeling remote, Stag Hill is conveniently close to Mahwah’s town center and major highways, making it a secluded spot that’s still connected to the broader region.
