Jefferson Township, New Jersey
Jefferson Township is a large Highlands community where lakes, preserved forests, historic villages and suburban neighborhoods meet. Its geography stretches from Lake Hopatcong and Route 15 to Oak Ridge, Milton, Newfoundland and the wooded ridges along the Morris–Passaic–Sussex county borders.
Known locally for year-round recreation, Jefferson combines more than ten miles of Lake Hopatcong shoreline, thousands of acres of protected land, a strong Route 15 commercial corridor and a collection of distinct lake and mountain communities.
2020 Census: 20,538
Land area: 38.9 sq. mi.
Total area: about 42.8 sq. mi.
Incorporated: February 11, 1804
Major areas: Lake Hopatcong · Milton/Oak Ridge · Newfoundland
Major routes: 15 · 23 · 181 · Berkshire Valley Rd
What Defines Jefferson Township?
History: Iron, Lakes & Recreation
Jefferson Township was incorporated on February 11, 1804 from portions of Pequannock and Roxbury townships and was named for President Thomas Jefferson. Early settlement and industry were shaped by iron mining, forests, water power and agricultural land. Historical accounts identify numerous iron-mining operations across what became Jefferson.
By the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Lake Hopatcong developed into a major resort destination. Rail access to the broader lake region, hotels, amusement sites and seasonal cottages drew visitors from northern New Jersey and New York. Many seasonal communities gradually evolved into year-round neighborhoods.
Lakes, Parks & Open Space
Communities Within Jefferson
Jefferson Township uses several postal names and contains many distinct neighborhoods. A mailing address may say Oak Ridge, Lake Hopatcong, Newfoundland or even Wharton while still being within Jefferson Township. For municipal questions, use the property block/lot or official municipal records rather than the postal city alone.
Schools & Library
Town Government
Jefferson operates under the Faulkner Act Mayor-Council form of government. The municipal complex is at 1033 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849.
Getting Around
Jefferson is primarily a driving community. Route 15 serves the Lake Hopatcong side, Route 23 reaches the Newfoundland/Oak Ridge side, Route 181 parallels part of the lake, and Berkshire Valley Road/County Route 513 crosses the township. Interstate 80 touches the southern edge and is reached easily from the Route 15 corridor.
2026 Community Life
Jefferson's recreation calendar is active across the seasons. The 2026 program included the Fireman's Carnival in May, summer concerts, Camp Jefferson programming and special America 250 activities. Annual traditions also include a fall festival, Halloween programs, the Winter Stroll, Christmas Tree Lighting, Christmas in the Village, Memorial Day observances and other community events.
Check Current Township CalendarExplore Jefferson Township on NJTGO
Surrounding Communities
Jefferson borders or connects closely with Sparta Township, Hardyston Township, Hopatcong Borough, West Milford Township, Rockaway Township, Mount Arlington, Roxbury Township and the Wharton area. Because Jefferson sits at the meeting point of Morris, Sussex and Passaic counties, nearby shopping, employment and recreation often cross county lines.
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