It’s been a couple of years in the making, but miniature golf has finally come to the shores of Lake Hopatcong—and a little vestige of the lake’s resort past has returned. The location of the Lake Hopatcong Golf Club on Nolan’s Point is particularly poignant, considering all of the attractions that used to consume that part of the lake, from a dance hall to a roller coaster. “[We wanted] to create some fun on the lake,” said Béla Szigethy, who owns Camp Six, Inc., including the golf course. “Since Bertrand Island closed in 1983 there’s really been no place to go on the lake just to have fun. And for the most part everybody enjoys a round of miniature golf. So we’re giving it a shot.” The course is situated on a lot that once housed the Lakeland Marine Base, which burned down in the 1970s. The site remained vacant for decades before being purchased for the purpose of the golf course. After several revisions, the current plan was approved, which incorporated changes requested by residential neighbors. The golf course will be open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with the official grand opening taking place on Memorial Day weekend. A round of golf is $7 for children and $8 for adults on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and $8 for children and $10 for adults on nights and weekends. The course itself also ties in much of Lake Hopatcong’s history, with models of historical structures—such as the Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club and a steam ship—scattered throughout the course. Informational panels telling about the history of the lake are positioned throughout the course as well. In addition to office space, the building alongside the course includes a refreshment stand where golfers can pick up an ice cream, candy, or a beverage after around in the sun. The course is accessible by water, or by car at 37 Nolan’s Point Park Road in Lake Hopatcong. The entire course is handicapped accessible. For more information, visit the Lake Hopatcong Golf Club’s Facebook page, or call 973-663-0451. Todd Parks, who is the course manager, said he thinks the course will “be jammed on beautiful days” and will boost business for the area—with the Windlass, Alice’s, and the Jefferson House all in the course’s vicinity. “It is a great addition to the lake for families to enjoy a full day of fun,” he said. “And the restaurants will reap the benefits of all the action.”
Full Disclosure: The Lake Hopatcong Golf Club is owned by Camp Six, Inc., which also owns this publication.
