Exploring the Filming Locations of the Iconic Friday the 13th in New Jersey
Where in NJ was Friday the 13th Filmed?
For horror movie enthusiasts, the question “Where in NJ was Friday the 13th filmed?” holds significant interest. The iconic 1980 film, directed by Sean S. Cunningham, is one of the most famous slasher movies of all time, and its setting in the fictional Crystal Lake has become synonymous with fear and suspense. Although the actual filming locations were spread across various New Jersey towns, the most recognizable ones are discussed below.
The central location for the filming of Friday the 13th was in the town of Blairstown, New Jersey. This picturesque town in Warren County served as the backdrop for the movie’s infamous Camp Crystal Lake. The camp itself was portrayed as a secluded, eerie place, and many of the movie’s key scenes were shot here. The camp’s main building, which has since been demolished, was located on the property of the former Crystal Lake Camp for Girls, which is now a private residence.
Another significant filming location was the town of Hardwick, New Jersey. The town’s downtown area was used to depict the town of Pine Valley, where the film’s protagonist, Alice Hardy, lives. The iconic diner scene, where Alice first encounters her brother’s killer, Jason Voorhees, was filmed in the Hardwick Diner. This diner is still operational today and has become a popular spot for fans visiting the area.
Additionally, the town of Montague, New Jersey, played a role in the film. The Montague Community Center was used to represent the local police station, where Alice seeks help after discovering her brother’s death. The center still stands and has been recognized for its connection to the film.
While the film’s setting is a fictional town, the use of these New Jersey locations added to the authenticity of the movie’s atmosphere. The combination of the eerie, rural settings and the haunting score created a perfect backdrop for the chilling story of Camp Crystal Lake. Today, fans of the film continue to visit these locations, making them a part of New Jersey’s cinematic history.
