Hidden Things to Do in Vernon New Jersey
65I must admit, many people who come here to Vernon NJ, complain about how few things there to do here. And, in a way, they’re right. Because many of them come from suburban or city areas, Vernon is a huge letdown. There are no malls, no huge areas of entertainment, and if you happen to go for a walk, you most likely will see less than ten people, unless you live in Great Gorge, the condos. However, Vernon and the surrounding area do offer some unique activities that you won’t find in a city. Here are some things that people may not have thought of in and around this small (in population only) town.
Horseback Riding.
Vernon offers not one, but Four separate farms for riding horses. Oxbow farm on State route 94 offers lessons and boarding, that I know of. I have heard that the trails are suited for the beginning or advanced rider. Fox Ridge not only offers lessons, but also a riding “camp” for children, where they learn not only how to ride, but to also care for the horses. Quiet creek stables offers pleasant trail rides through the valley, as does the Legends trails. .
Cherry Ridge Shooting Range.
Straight from their Website: Open to all members with shooting from 8:30AM to sundown 360 days each year. Closed for two work weekends and on Christmas Day. The range property has been owned by the Association since 1935 and is surrounded by a watershed area so there will be no additional development. A paved road leads to the ranges and the clubhouse. Clubhouse: Built in early ‘80s with kitchen facilities, rest rooms and a large meeting area with tables and folding chairs. Can easily accommodate 200 people for meeting type events. Upper floor is residence for year round Caretaker / Range Officer. Lower level contains rest rooms, storage rooms and garage with many shop tools for wood and metal. This range incudes: Handgun Range: Rifle Range Silhouette Range, archery, High Power Rifle Range And Shotgun Range. Located on Canistear Road.
3. Crystal Springs Resort.
This resort offers plenty to guests. There are not one, not two, but SEVEN different golf courses available through Vernon. Three different Hotels, one on the grounds of Mountain Creek Skiing and Waterpark. Two spas offering :Massages and body treatments, Facials, Skin care ,Manicures, Pedicures, Salon Services ,Waxing ,Bridal activities and Romantic Spa Getaways. This resort is also a great place to hold a Wedding!
Mountain Creek
A part of Crystal springs, and yet deserves to stand alone. In the winter there is skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing available. There are three ski lifts, and tow parks for skiing/snowboarding. During the summer months, on the mountain is a water park including a large wave pool.
Old Lafayette Village.
Located in Lafayette, ten miles from Vernon, this village is comprised of small, quaint stores as well as outlets. It can almost be considered an outside mall of sorts, as none of the stores are connected. It’s a beautiful place, with plenty f trees and a duck pond in the center of the village.
These are the top five things that I’ve found to do in this small town. There are in fact, many more, too many to list here. The area itself is beautiful, and I have often taken long walks around Vernon just to photograph the scenery. I would reccomend this soothing vacation spot for just about anyone.












