If you’re driving down Route 10 or navigating the rolling hills near the Ironia section of town, you might not be thinking about administrative boundaries. You're probably just trying to avoid the traffic near the County College of Morris. But for anyone moving here, paying taxes, or just settling a bet, the answer is straightforward: Randolph, NJ is in Morris County. It’s one of those places that feels deeply suburban yet surprisingly rugged.
Morris County is often cited as one of the wealthiest and most stable areas in the United States. Randolph fits that mold perfectly. Founded formally in 1805, the township didn't just appear out of nowhere. It has a gritty history involving iron mines and Quaker settlers. Today, it serves as a central hub for families who want a bit more land than you’d find in the cramped corridors of Essex or Hudson counties.
The Morris County Connection: Why Location Matters
Being part of Morris County isn't just a trivia point. It dictates your lifestyle. When people ask what county is Randolph NJ in, they are usually looking for context on the school systems, the tax rates, and the general "vibe" of the area.
Morris County is the seventh-most populous county in New Jersey. It’s governed by a Board of County Commissioners (formerly known as Freeholders, a term you’ll still hear old-timers use). For Randolph residents, this means access to the massive Morris County Park Commission system. We're talking about Brundage Park and the hidden gems along the Patriots' Path.
Honestly, the park system is the crown jewel of the county.
Randolph sits right in the center-north portion of the county. It's bordered by Mine Hill, Dover, Rockaway, Denville, Morris Township, Mendham, and Chester. That’s a lot of neighbors. It makes Randolph a sort of crossroads. You’ve got the industrial history of Dover to the north and the high-end equestrian estates of Mendham to the south. Randolph is the middle ground. It’s accessible.
Life in the 07869 and 07801
The township covers roughly 21 square miles. Most of that is residential, but the "what county" question often brings up concerns about the local economy. Because it’s in Morris County, Randolph benefits from a massive corporate tax base in nearby Morristown and Parsippany. This keeps the services high quality, though anyone living here will tell you that property taxes are, well, New Jersey taxes. High.
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A Quick Look at the Neighbors
If you look at a map of Morris County, Randolph looks like a jagged puzzle piece. To the west, you hit the more rural vibes of Roxbury. To the east, you’re a stone’s throw from the Morristown Green. This proximity is why Randolph is a magnet for commuters. You can get to Manhattan in about an hour if the Mid-Town Direct from Dover or Morristown is behaving, or you can head west toward the Poconos in the same amount of time.
History You Won't Find on a Standard Map
The area was originally inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Native Americans. Later, the first European settlers arrived around 1713. They weren't looking for suburban cul-de-sacs. They were looking for iron.
Randolph was part of the "Iron Empire."
Hartshorne Fitz-Randolph, the town's namesake, was a prominent Quaker who purchased massive tracts of land here in the mid-1700s. If you visit the Friends Meeting House on Quaker Church Road, you’re standing at the oldest religious structure in Morris County. It was built in 1758. It’s still there. It survived the Revolution. It survived the industrialization of the 19th century. It’s a quiet reminder that this isn't just a modern suburb; it's a place with deep, weathered roots.
During the Revolutionary War, the forges in this part of Morris County were essential. They supplied the Continental Army with tools and weapons. General George Washington spent a lot of time in nearby Morristown, and his troops moved through these very hills.
The Modern Randolph Experience
What’s it like now?
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It’s busy. Route 10 is the main artery. If you need a bagel, a new car, or a gym membership, you’re on Route 10. But once you turn off the highway, the terrain changes fast. The "Mountain Lakes" side of town (not to be confused with the actual borough of Mountain Lakes) is hilly and wooded.
- Education: Randolph High School is a big deal here. It’s a blue-ribbon school. The township is also home to the County College of Morris (CCM), which is a massive asset for the entire county.
- Recreation: Heistein Park and Freedom Park are the weekend hubs. If you have kids in soccer or lacrosse, you will spend half your life in these parking lots.
- The Vibe: It’s a mix of "old Jersey" and new professionals. You’ll see 1950s ranch houses sitting right next to $1.5 million new builds.
Why People Get Confused About the County
Sometimes people get Randolph confused with other "R" towns in Jersey. You have Readington (Hunterdon County), Rutherford (Bergen County), and Ridgefield (also Bergen). Then there’s Randolph, Massachusetts. It’s easy to see why a quick Google search for "what county is Randolph in" is necessary.
But make no mistake—Randolph is Morris County through and through. It shares the county’s reputation for being "straight-laced" and well-maintained. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the local Randolph Police Department are very active. It’s a safe place. That’s why people pay the premium to live here.
Practical Logistics for Residents and Visitors
If you are dealing with government paperwork, knowing the county is vital. Your deeds are recorded at the Morris County Clerk’s Office in Morristown. If you get a jury summons, you’re heading to the courthouse on Washington Street in Morristown.
The political climate of Morris County has historically been Republican, though that has shifted significantly in recent years. Randolph itself is a bit of a "purple" town these days. You’ll see a wide variety of political signs during election season. It reflects a changing demographic as younger families move out of the city and bring different perspectives with them.
Things to Do if You're Visiting
If you find yourself in this corner of Morris County, stop by Sun High Orchards. It’s a classic Jersey farm stand. Their apple cider donuts are legendary. Honestly, they’re probably the best in the county. Or, if you want a hike, head over to the Clyde Potts Reservoir. It’s technically on the border, but it offers some of the best views of the Morris County Highlands.
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Addressing Common Myths
A common misconception is that Randolph is a "dry" town. It’s not. While some neighboring towns have quirky liquor laws dating back to the Prohibition era, Randolph has plenty of spots to grab a drink.
Another myth? That it’s just one giant suburb.
While the housing developments are numerous, the township has worked hard to preserve open space. Over 25% of the land in Randolph is protected from development. That’s a huge win for anyone who likes seeing deer and wild turkeys in their backyard (though the deer are a menace to local gardeners).
Your Next Steps in Randolph
If you’re looking to move here or just visiting, start with the local resources. The Randolph Township official website is surprisingly helpful for trash schedules and permit info. If you’re a history buff, the Historical Society of Old Randolph is a must-visit.
- Check the School District: If you have kids, look at the Randolph Township Schools website. They are the primary reason property values stay so high.
- Explore the Parks: Download the Morris County Park Commission map. Trails like the Shongum Mountain Loop offer a great escape from the suburban sprawl.
- Visit the Library: The Randolph Public Library is one of the best-funded in the area and serves as a community hub for events and workshops.
- Drive Route 10: Get a feel for the commercial side of the town. From the Randolph Diner (a local staple) to the newer shopping centers, this is where the pulse of the town is.
Knowing that Randolph is in Morris County is just the beginning. It’s a town that balances its colonial past with a high-energy, modern lifestyle. It’s a place where you can visit a 250-year-old Quaker meeting house in the morning and a state-of-the-art community college in the afternoon. It’s quintessential New Jersey.
Whether you're here for the schools, the commute, or the donuts at Sun High, you’re in the heart of one of the best counties in the Garden State. Take advantage of the county services, explore the vast trail networks, and get involved in the local community. There is a lot more to this town than just its name on a map.