NJDEP lists Lake Hopatcong water-level plan update as park swimming area sets July closure

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Hopatcong State Park page lists a July 17, 2026, update to the Lake Hopatcong Water Level Management Plan. The same page says the park’s swimming area will be closed July 24-26.

The day-use area and boat launch are scheduled to remain open during the swimming-area closure. The park operates daily with an 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. gate schedule during the listed season. Hopatcong State Park is located at 260 Lakeside Blvd. in Landing, where Lake Hopatcong is the park’s central water body.

What the update means

The NJDEP page does not describe the substantive changes in the updated management plan. It also does not give a reason for the three-day swimming-area closure. The listed closure dates are the next known access change for park visitors, while boating and day-use access are expected to continue.

The Lake Hopatcong Foundation has also reported 2026 lake-focused programming, including new water trails, environmental education and lake-appreciation and community activities. Those programs add to the season’s recreation and environmental activity around the lake, which affects swimmers, boaters, shoreline residents and nearby businesses.