Parks, Recreation Areas, Trails, & Scenic Overlooks
~ Ocean and Monmouth Counties ~

"Carlson's Corner" by Virginia Perle
Virginia Perle Art Gallery, Toms River

Below, listed by county and alphabetically by town, are the Parks & Recreation Areas and their offerings in Ocean and Monmouth counties. Under "Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted," you will find more detailed descriptions of many of these parks.

MONMOUTH COUNTY • OCEAN COUNTY

PARKS & RECREATION AREAS HIGHLIGHTED
Ocean County • Monmouth County

AREA LIGHTHOUSES

updated 3-5-10

MONMOUTH COUNTY

ABERDEEN/ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS

HENRY HUDSON TRAIL
(732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 85; hiking trails, skiing (cross country).

COLTS NECK

DORBROOK RECREATION AREA
207 Route 537, (732) 542-1642
Acreage: 510; open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country), tennis.

FREEHOLD

MONMOUTH BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK
347 Freehold-Englishtown Road, (732) 462-9616
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 1520; food concession, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, skiing (cross-country).

TURKEY SWAMP PARK
200 Georgia Road, Freehold Township, (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 2,111; boating/canoeing, camping, fishing, fitness trails, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country).

HIGHLANDS

MOUNT MITCHELL SCENIC OVERLOOK
460 Ocean Boulevard, Atlantic Highlands, (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 11; playground.

HOLMDEL

HOLMDEL PARK AND LONGSTREET FARM
44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel, (732) 946-3758 or (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 572; fishing, fitness trails, food concession, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country), tennis.

HOWELL

MANASQUAN RESERVOIR
311 Windeler Road, Howell Township, (732) 919-0996 or (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 1203; boating/canoeing, fishing, food concession, hiking trails, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country).

LINCROFT

THOMPSON PARK
Newman Springs Road, (732) 842-4000
Acreage: 665; boating/canoeing, fishing, fitness trails, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country), tennis.

LOCUST

HARTSHORNE WOODS PARK
300 Navesink Road, Middletown and 1402 Portland Road, Highlands, (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 787; fishing, hiking trails, skiing (cross-country).

HUBER WOODS PARK
25 Brown's Dock Road, Locust section of Middletown, (732) 872-2670 or (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 366; hiking trails, open playing area, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country).

LONG BRANCH

SEVEN PRESIDENTS OCEANFRONT PARK
221 Ocean Avenue North, Long Branch, (732) 229-7025 or (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 38; fishing, fitness trails, food concession, open playing area, playground, rest rooms, swimming.

MANASQUAN

FISHERMAN'S COVE CONSERVATION AREA
(732) 842-4000
Acreage: 35; fishing, undeveloped.

MIDDLETOWN

DEEP CUT GARDENS
152 Red Hill Road, Middletown, (732) 671-6050 or (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 54; rest rooms.

TATUM PARK
144 Holland Road and 251 Red Hill Road, Middletown, (732) 842-4000
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 368; hiking trails, open playing area, playground, rest rooms.

NEPTUNE

SHARK RIVER PARK
Schoolhouse Road, (732) 922-4080
Acreage: 725; fishing, fitness trails, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country).

PORT MONMOUTH

MONMOUTH COVE MARINA
Port Monmouth Road, (732) 495-9440
Acreage: 10; boating/canoeing.

SANDY HOOK

GATEWAY NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
P.O. Box 437, (732) 872-5970
Please refer to our listing below under "Sandy Hook" under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 1600; boating/canoeing, fishing, food concession, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, rest rooms, swimming, undeveloped.

UPPER FREEHOLD

CLAYTON PARK
Imlaystown Road, (732) 842-4000
Acreage: 398; skiing (cross-country), undeveloped.

WALNFORD PARK
Walnford Road, (732) 842-4000
Acreage: 36; skiing (cross-country), undeveloped.

WALL

ALLAIRE STATE PARK
Route 524, (732) 938-2371
Please refer to our listing below under Historic Village At Allaire under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 3008; fishing, food concession, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country).

OCEAN COUNTY

BARNEGAT

BARNEGAT LIGHTHOUSE STATE PARK
Broadway and the Bay, (732) 494-2016
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 31; fishing, picnic area, rest rooms, swimming.

BEACHWOOD

JAKES BRANCH COUNTY PARK
1100 Double Trouble Road, Beachwood, (732) 281-2750
www.ocean.nj.us/Parks/jakesbranch.html
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Nature center, observation deck, soccer, baseball/softball, tennis, basketball, nature trails, tot lot, picnic grove, open playing fields.

BERKELEY TOWNSHIP

BERKELEY ISLAND COUNTY PARK
Brennan Concourse, (609) 296-5606
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 25, fishing, food concession, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, swimming.

DOUBLE TROUBLE STATE PARK
Double Trouble Road, (609) 296-5606
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage; 4000; boating/canoeing, fishing, hiking trails, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country), undeveloped.

MILL CREEK COUNTY PARK
Mill Creek Road and Chelsea Avenue, (732) 506-9090
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 14; hiking trails, picnic area, playground, rest rooms.

ROBERT J. MILLER COUNTY AIRPARK
Route 530, (732) 240-3520
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 35; hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country).

DOVER TOWNSHIP

CATTUS ISLAND COUNTY PARK
Cattus Island Boulevard, (732) 270-6960
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 497; fishing, hiking trails, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country).

E. B. LEONE CONSERVATION AREA
Silver Bay off Hopper Avenue, (732) 506-9090
Acreage: 45; undeveloped.

RIVERFRONT LANDING COUNTY PARK
Water Street, (732) 506-9090
Acreage: 3; fishing, picnic area.

ISLAND BEACH

ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK
Route 35, (732) 793-0506
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 3002; fishing, food concession, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, rest rooms, swimming, undeveloped.

JACKSON

PATRIOT'S COUNTY PARK
Bowman Road, (732) 506-9090
Acreage: 219; fitness trails, hiking trails, picnic area, playground, rest rooms.

LAKEWOOD

LAKE SHENANDOAH COUNTY PARK
Route 88, (732) 363-9678
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage 143; boating/canoeing, fishing, food concession, hiking trails, rest rooms.

OCEAN COUNTY PARK
Route 88, (732) 363-9678
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 323; fishing, fitness trails, food concession, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, skiing (cross-country), swimming, tennis.

SHENANDOAH COUNTY FIELD SPORTS COMPLEX
Route 88, (732) 506-9090
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 84; hiking trails, playground, rest rooms.

LAKEWOOD/BRICK

METEDECONK RIVER CONSERVATION AREA
(732) 506-9090
Acreage: 318; undeveloped.

LITTLE EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP

PARKERTOWN COUNTY PARK
Dock Street, (732) 506-9090
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 3; picnic area, playground, rest rooms, swimming.

OCEAN

WELLS MILLS COUNTY PARK
Route 532, (609) 971-3085
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 810; boating/canoeing, fishing, hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms.

POINT PLEASANT BEACH

GULL ISLAND COUNTY CONSERVATION AREA
Broadway, (732) 506-9090
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 48; fishing.

POINT PLEASANT

BEAVER DAM CREEK COUNTY PARK
Bridge Avenue, (732) 506-9090
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 40; hiking trails, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, tennis.

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP

A. PAUL KING COUNTY PARK
Route 72 and Route 9, (732) 506-9090
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 61; fishing, open playing area, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, swimming.

TUCKERTON

"TIP" SEAMAN COUNTY PARK
Lakeside Drive, (609) 296-5606
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 22; boating/canoeing, fishing, fitness trails, food concession, picnic area, playground, rest rooms, tennis.

SOUTH GREEN STREET COUNTY PARK
South Green Street, (732) 506-9090
Please refer to our listing below under Parks & Recreation Areas Highlighted.
Acreage: 5; fishing, picnic area, playground, rest rooms.

PARKS AND RECREATION AREAS HIGHLIGHTED

OCEAN COUNTY

A. PAUL KING COUNTY PARK
Junction of Routes 9 and 72, Stafford Township, (609) 296-5606
Situated on lovely Manahawkin Lake, this 48-acre park lies nestled in the heart of Stafford Township. It offers a variety of recreation possibilities, including beach volleyball, a brightly colored children's playground, a large picnic area shaded by a stand of pines, and a protected sandy swimming beach open from mid-June through Labor Day in September. Basketball court, horseshoes, fishing, handicap accessible, restrooms.

BARNEGAT LIGHTHOUSE STATE PARK
Route 72, Long Beach Island, (732) 494-2016
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests
A one time hideout of Captain Kidd and his pirates, this panoramic beach now offers fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Historic "Old Barney" lighthouse is here, too.

BAYVIEW PARK
68th Street and Long Beach Boulevard, Brant Beach, (609) 361-1000

BEACH HAVEN BICENTENNIAL PARK
Engleside Avenue, Beach Haven
Traditional Victorian park located in the historic district of Beach Haven. Free outdoor summer concerts.

BEAVER DAM CREEK COUNTY PARK
Bridge Avenue, Point Pleasant, 1-877-OC PARKS
This expertly groomed 40 acre park has something for everyone! Take a leisurely stroll along Beaver Dam Creek's boardwalk through tidal wetlands, seemingly miles from civilization. Enjoy a picnic under the pavilion while the kids cavort on one of two playgrounds. Or, engage in your favorite sport on six acres of playing fields. Two superb tennis courts and a basketball court are also available for use.

BERKELEY ISLAND COUNTY PARK
Brennan Concourse, Berkeley Township, (732) 506-9090
Situated on a scenic peninsula jutting out into the calm waters of Barnegat Bay, Berkeley Island County Park provides one of the best views of the bay in Ocean County. Its 25 acres feature a family-oriented sandy beach with protected bay bathing. The 100' crabbing/fishing pier is one of the County's most popular. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day sunning, swimming, or crabbing. Picnic area, grills, playground.

CATTUS ISLAND COUNTY PARK AND COOPER ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER
1170 Cattus Island Boulevard (off Fischer Blvd.), Toms River, (732) 270-6960
The unspoiled beauty of nature is the main attraction at Cattus Island County Park. For nature lovers, this 497 acre park offers panoramic bay views, hiking trails, a boardwalk through the wetlands, a conservation area, bird watching, crabbing and fishing, picnic areas, a playground, and cross-country skiing in the winter. This environmentally sensitive park boasts miles of trails, many offering lovely vistas of the adjacent Silver Bay. Cattus Island is home to the Cooper Environmental Center, where visitors of all ages can enjoy the many displays and collections of snakes and reptiles, as well as numerous programs and presentations.

DOUBLE TROUBLE STATE PARK
Double Trouble Road West, Berkeley, (732) 341-6662
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests
You won't have any trouble enjoying this 4,000 acre park with restored village, sawmill, and cranberry bogs.

EDWIN B. FORSYTHE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Barnegat Division: Great Creek Road, Barnegat
Headquarters: Brigantine Division, Route 9, Oceanville, (609) 652-1665
forsythe.fws.gov
Established to protect tidal wetlands and shallow bay habitats for migratory water birds, the refuge's location is one of the Atlantic Flyway's most active flight paths. Its value for the protection of water birds and their habitat continues to increase as people develop the New Jersey shore for our own use. Wildlife drive and trails are open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. Headquarters is open weekdays, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

ENO'S POND COUNTY PARK
East Lacey Road, Lacey Township
Eno's Pond County Park, the newest addition to Ocean County's parks, opened in the Autumn of 1998. Its 28 acres and surrounding area have a long and colorful history dating to the Colonial period. The observation decks overlook Eno's Pond (which was once used as a source of ice for a hotel on the site) and are a good vantage point for viewing some of the pond's residents and visitors. Eno's Pond County Park is adjacent to part of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge Lacey Extension, and both entities are working to develop a trail system between the two properties. Conservation area, handicap accessible, open playing fields, nature trails, picnic area/grills, playground, restrooms, volleyball.

GULL ISLAND COUNTY PARK & CONSERVATION AREA
Broadway, Point Pleasant Beach, 1-877-OC PARKS or (732) 506-9090
All but a small parcel of land of this 48 acre tract is an island conservation area in the Manasquan River, and it's a great place for a picnic lunch or fishing the rich waters of the area.

ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK
Shore Road, Island Beach, (732) 793-0506
One of the few remaining undeveloped barrier beaches on the North Atlantic. Features bathing areas, food, as well as a nature center, wildlife sanctuary, and botanical preserve.

JAKES BRANCH COUNTY PARK
1100 Double Trouble Road, Beachwood, (732) 281-2750
www.ocean.nj.us/Parks/jakesbranch.html
Known as “The Gateway to the Pines,” Jakes Branch County Park offers a balance of active and passive recreation opportunities. The nature center in the park highlights the beauty, history, and natural surroundings of the Pine Barrens. Breathtaking views of the seemingly endless Pine Barrens can be taken in from the observation deck perched atop the nature center. Jakes Branch also offers soccer, baseball/softball, tennis, and basketball in addition to miles of nature trails. The tot lot, picnic grove, and open playing fields appeal to children of all ages.

LAKE SHENANDOAH COUNTY PARK
Route 88 East (Ocean Avenue) Lakewood, 1-877-OC PARKS
Tall oaks and pines surround the gorgeous 100-acre Lake Shenandoah, which is the focal point of this 143 acre park. Trout-stocked waters, accessible fishing piers, and an on-site bait-and-tackle shop with boat rentals make this spot perfect for freshwater fishing, from land or water. Small boat launch (electric motors only), conservation area, picnic area, and bike trail. See also “Shenandoah County Field Sports Complex.”

MILL CREEK COUNTY PARK
Mill Creek Road and Chelsea Avenue, Berkeley Township, (877) OC PARKS.
Mill Creek County Park is located in Berkeley Township between Pine Beach and Ocean Gate. Cedar chip trails, the Mill Creek, the Toms River, and three playgrounds make this a scenic and inviting park. It's 14 acres offer the perfect spot for a family picnic under the pavilion or at one of several secluded picnic tables. Basketball, conservation area, handicapped accessible, grills, restrooms, trails.

OCEAN COUNTY PARK
Route 88 West (Ocean Avenue), Lakewood, 1-877-OC PARKS or (732) 506-9090
This magnificent 323 acre facility in Lakewood has a rich and fascinating history. Ocean County Park was originally part of Financier John D. Rockefeller's vacation estate. White pine, hemlock, and other unique specimen trees, now mature, were imported by Rockefeller from all over the country. Fitness and bike trails, tennis courts, open playing fields, beach volleyball, canoeing, fishing, and even a driving range, all free of charge, appeal to adults of all ages; children will delight in using the playgrounds or swimming in the large, clean swimming lake on hot summer days. Warm weather isn't the only time to enjoy this park, however. Transformed into a lovely and silent winter wonderland after a snowfall, it's a great site for cross-country skiing. Of course, there is no charge for casual use of the park, the beach, or its other many facilities. Ocean County Park has a large, accessible picnic facility. Reservations are available for a nominal fee for up to 700 persons. 

PARKERTOWN COUNTY PARK
Dock Road, Little Egg Harbor, (609) 296-5606
This small park offers a getaway for locals and visitors alike. Its bayfront location offers an ideal spot for a picnic with family and friends under the pavilion. The playground will provide hours of entertainment for the kids. Handicap accessible, picnic tables, restrooms

ROBERT J. MILLER COUNTY PARK
Route 530, Berkeley Township, (732) 506-9090
Home of the renowned Ocean County Fair held each July, the 35 acre grounds are perfect for the many vendors, amusements, entertainers, 4-H clubs, and visitors who make the Fair an annual highlight. The park also has a playground and picnic area and is the site of a local, independently managed airport. Basketball, bike trail, conservation area, cross-country skiing, handicapped accessible, open playing fields, pavilion, restrooms.

SHENANDOAH COUNTY FIELD SPORTS COMPLEX
Route 88 East (Ocean Avenue) Lakewood, 1-877-OC PARKS
Six soccer and two softball fields on 84 acres await the visitor to this field sports complex, where any spring or fall afternoon will find fields busy with local teams and excited onlookers. Basketball, bike trail, playground, soccer, softball. See also “Lake Shenandoah County Park.”

SOUTH GREEN STREET PARK
South Green Street Terminus, Tuckerton, (609) 296-5606
Drive out to the very end of South Green Street for a breathtaking view of Little Egg Harbor Bay. Children will have a great time at the playground. This is an ideal spot to crab and fish—bring fishing tackle and crab lines! Handicap accessible, picnic area, restrooms.

STANLEY "TIP" SEAMAN COUNTY PARK
120 Lakeside Drive (Rt. 9), Tuckerton, (609) 296-5606
The 22 acre "Tip" Seaman County Park, located on the shores of Lake Pohatcong, is probably best known as the site of the Ocean County Decoy and Gunning Show. This yearly two-day event in September draws exhibitors and visitors from the entire eastern seaboard and beyond and has been named as one of the top 100 events in North America. "Tip" is also the home of the Barnegat Bay Decoy Museum and is just across Route 9 from Tuckerton Seaport. Fitness trail, bike trail, open play area, picnic area, playground, fishing, small boat launch, horseshoes, shuffleboard, basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball.

WELLS MILLS COUNTY PARK
Route 532, Waretown, (609) 971-3085
Wells Mills has the distinction of being the largest park in the Ocean County Park System, with over 900 acres of pine and oak forest within southern New Jersey's environmental marvel, the Pine Barrens. Miles of hiking trails, with varying degrees of difficulty, can be found here, including a Visually Impaired Persons trail. The three-story Nature Center offers a great display floor, a library, and the third floor Elizabeth Meirs Morgan Observation Deck. Environmental programs and classes, with experienced naturalists, are held regularly. The monthly “Full Moon Hikes” are but one of the popular events taking place here. The Annual “Pine Barrens Jamboree” is an event not to be missed. Beautiful Wells Mills Lake has trails meandering around it, and is perfect for a leisurely stroll through the Pine Barrens. Bike trails, canoe rentals, conservation area, fishing, nature center, open playing fields, picnic area, playground, restrooms.

MONMOUTH COUNTY

ALLAIRE STATE PARK
THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT ALLAIRE
Route 524, Wall, (732) 938-2371
www.allairevillage.org
Please refer to our listing under Attractions.
This park boasts a restored early-nineteenth-century bog iron mining community. You'll find picnicking, playgrounds, campsites, riding trails, a nature center, and the Pine Creek Railroad steam trains. See also “The Historic Village At Allaire” under “Historic Sites & Museums.”

BAYSHORE WATERFRONT PARK
119 Port Monmouth Road, Middletown, (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com/parks/bayshore.asp
Views of Raritan Bay and the NYC skyline; boardwalk, beach access, and 145 acres including a fishing pier.

CHEESEQUAKE STATE PARK
300 Gordon Road (GSP Exit 120, off of Morristown Road), Matawan, (732) 566-2161
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/cheesequake.html
Cheesequake State Park's uniqueness lies in its geographical location. Not only is it situated in the middle of urban north and suburban south New Jersey, it lies in a transitional zone between two different ecosystems. Open fields, saltwater and freshwater marshes, a white cedar swamp, Pine Barrens, and a northeastern hardwood forest are the main characteristics of the park.

DEEP CUT GARDENS
152 Red Hill Road, Middletown, (732) 671-6050 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Deep Cut Gardens is dedicated to the home gardener. The fifty-four acres of gardens and greenhouses are planned as a living catalog of cultivated and native plant materials to be observed through the seasons. Whether identifying the specimens in the gardens, questioning the horticultural staff, or perusing the books and magazines in the horticultural reference library, you will discover ways to improve your home garden. While there, visit the Home Compost Demonstration Area. Views of the surrounding countryside; shade, seating, and picnic tables.

HARTSHORNE WOODS PARK
300 Navesink Road, Middletown and 1402 Portland Road, Highlands, (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
You'll feel many miles away from civilization as you travel the trails of this park. Features include group cabin camping (by reservation), cross country ski trails, fishing in the Navesink River, and trails for walking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Trails include three miles of paved paths closed to vehicular traffic in the Rocky Point Section. Adventure, exercise, and relaxation await you on the nineteen-mile trail system of this 787-acre park. It's the perfect place to escape the sounds of suburbia.

HENRY HUDSON TRAIL
Aberdeen/Keyport border to Atlantic Highlands, and Matawan to Freehold, (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This paved, ten-foot wide, 22-mile long trail is a former railroad right-of-way. It is relatively flat, traveling through both man-made and natural environments. Much of the trail is tree-lined, though some parts have views of surrounding wetlands, streams, and fields. The northern trail section runs ten miles (just north of and parallel to Rt. 36) from the Aberdeen/Keyport border at the intersection of Lloyd Rd. and Clark St. to the Leonardo section of Middletown/Atlantic Highlands border at Avenue D. Work is underway to extend the Henry Hudson Trail another twelve miles to Freehold Borough. Currently, the trail runs four miles from Rt. 537 in Freehold to Stevenson Drive in Marlboro. The trail then resumes at Station Road in Marlboro and continues for five miles to Church Street in Matawan. Future plans for the Trail include linking these two sections of trail and providing a connection to the original northern section of the Henry Hudson Trail.

HOLMDEL PARK AND LONGSTREET FARM
44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel, (732) 946-3758 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This 572 acre park features hiking and fitness trails, fishing and skating ponds, tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, a sledding hill, and more. Longstreet Farm, located in the park, is a living history farm that maintains life as it was during the 1890s. Costumed interpreters work the farm as it was over a hundred years ago. Come see the 14-room farmhouse, live animals, agricultural fields, and barnyard! Activities, guided tours, and children's programs are available. Open everyday except Christmas. The farmhouse is open only on weekends.

HUBER WOODS PARK
25 Brown's Dock Road, Locust section of Middletown, (732) 872-2670 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Enjoy a fabulous view of the Navesink River and relax as you get away from it all on one of the trails. This park features 366 acres of forest and meadows. Other attractions include eight miles of multi-use trails, and the Environmental Center with hands-on nature displays. A visit to Huber Woods Park is the perfect opportunity to appreciate facets of nature that are often taken for granted. Take time amid the scenic beauty and panoramic views to observe the small things—the sounds, smells, lights and shadows, and subtle hints of seasonal changes. Relax in a meadow or take a walk along a wooded trail. Each experience will enhance your appreciation of the fascinating natural world around

MANASQUAN RESERVOIR
311 Windeler Road, Howell Township, (732) 919-0996 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
Please refer to our listing under Canoeing & Kayaking and Boat Rides & Cruises.
County operated public recreation area on 1,203 acre reservoir. Hike, picnic, or put in your own canoe, kayak, or electric powered boat and pay daily or seasonal ramp fee. Rent boats too! Or tour the reservoir on a thirty-six foot pontoon boat with a guide who will introduce you to the area's plants and wildlife. Forty minute weekend tours from Memorial Day to the end of September. $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for twelve and under. Be sure to visit the Environmental Center on 331 Georgia Tavern Road. Dedicated to providing experiences of learning and discovery of wetland ecology and wildlife and habitat protection, the Environmental Center is open daily 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Free!

MARINE PARK
Located in the heart of downtown Red Bank and overlooking the picturesque Navesink River
Marine Park is an attraction all year long. From hosting spring and summer jazz concerts and festivals to watching ice boating in the winter, Marine Park is a must see.

MONMOUTH BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK AND MONMOUTH BATTLEFIELD
Route 33, one mile west of Route 9, Freehold, (732) 462-9616
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests
This is where Molly Pitcher became famous during a Revolutionary battle. It was on the Monmouth Battlefield that General Washington and General Sir Henry Clinton faced each other. This victory convinced the British that the revolutionaries were a force to contend with and not just a ragtag rabble. This is also the setting for the historic Craig House. Visitors center, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

MOUNT MITCHILL SCENIC OVERLOOK
460 Ocean Boulevard, Atlantic Highlands, (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This is the Jersey Shore's highest point—266 feet above sea level—and is the second highest point on the Atlantic seaboard (after Maine's Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park). The overlook's twelve acres offer spectacular views of Sandy Hook, Raritan Bay, and the NYC skyline and features picnic tables and a playground. Mount Mitchill is home to Monmouth County's 9/11 Memorial. The memorial is a tribute to the 147 men and women born, raised, or residing in Monmouth County who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

SANDY HOOK:
GATEWAY NATIONAL RECREATION AREA, SANDY HOOK UNIT
SANDY HOOK VISITOR'S CENTER
SANDY HOOK LIGHTHOUSE
FORT HANCOCK HISTORIC DISTRICT
Off Route 36, Highlands, (732) 872-5970
www.nps.gov/gate
The Sandy Hook region of the Gateway National Recreation Area features seven miles of beaches (with lifeguards in summer), evening beach concerts, hiking trails, salt marshes, and over three hundred species of birds. Ranger (and self-guided) tours are available year-round. The park is open daily, sunrise to sunset. The Sandy Hook Visitor's Center at Spermaceti Cove is an 1894 U.S. Life-Saving Station that features exhibits on the peninsula's natural environment. It is open daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Located near the tip of this seven-mile barrier peninsula, is the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse. Built at the request of New York merchants wanting to protect their ships entering the harbor, it was lighted for the first time on June 11, 1764. The octagonal tower was the fifth lighthouse in the colonies and remains the oldest operating lighthouse in the U.S. today. The Lighthouse was occupied by British soldiers during the American Revolution and was bombarded by cannons served by Patriot troops. It was also the sanctuary to local refugees who were sympathizers of the King. The grounds around the Lighthouse are open daily, and a video program can also be viewed. The Lighthouse itself is open to climb on Saturdays and Sundays from April through mid-December. Volunteers from the N.J. Lighthouse Society offer tours inside and are limited on a first-come, first-served basis. While there, also visit the Fort Hancock Historic District. Built in 1898, Fort Hancock includes gun batteries and over one hundred buildings. Start your visit at the Fort Hancock Museum; then visit History House, a 1890s officers' home. (History House is open weekends 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM.) Special use fees for beach parking are charged, while entry to the historic district is free.

SEVEN PRESIDENTS OCEANFRONT PARK
221 Ocean Avenue North, Long Branch, (732) 229-7025 or (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
This thirty-eight-acre park was named to honor seven presidents who vacationed in the immediate area. In the summer, its guarded beach is a great place to swim, sun, and surf. During the off-season, it is a nice place for a quiet walk. Park features include an activity center, access to launch personal watercraft, fishing, a playground, swimming, sand volleyball, pavilion with snack bar, and restrooms. New improvements include a regulation in-line skating rink, a skate park, a shelter, and parking area. The park is open every day from 8:00 AM to dusk.

TATUM PARK
144 Holland Road and 251 Red Hill Road, Middletown, (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
"A little piece of paradise where you can find peace of mind." That's one description of the 366 acres of rolling hills, open fields, and 6.5 miles of winding trails through red and chestnut oaks and tulip trees. Visit the park each season to see the beautiful changes in color. Picnic tables offer a relaxing place to lunch. Near the Red Hill Activity Center, you'll find a playground at the edge of the woods.

TURKEY SWAMP PARK
200 Georgia Road, Freehold Township, (732) 842-4000
www.monmouthcountyparks,com
Turkey Swamp features 2,111 acres including a 17 acre lake for fishing, boating, and skating. Fish for bass, catfish, or bluegills either from the shore or from canoes and paddleboats that you can rent in summer. The lake offers winter ice-skating when the ice is thick enough, nine miles of multi-use and fitness trails traverse the park which is located at the northern end of the Pine Barrens; Turkey Swamp's terrain is relatively level and the lake adds scenic interest. There is also an archery range and playgrounds. Get back to nature by spending the night at the family campground or reserve a picnic shelter for your next big group picnic. The family campground offers campsites, electrical service, water service (3-15 - 11-15), drinking water, modern restroom with hot showers and laundry, a self serve sanitary dump station for campers with holding tanks, fire rings for charcoal cooking and campfires, picnic tables, and a children's playground.

AREA LIGHTHOUSES

BARNEGAT LIGHTHOUSE
Broadway and the Bay, Barnegat Light, (609) 494-2016
More commonly known as "Old Barney," the lighthouse is the New Jersey Shore's most familiar landmark. The 172-foot tower, marking the entrance to Barnegat Inlet, was built in 1858. The park offers facilities for picnicking and fishing.

ROMER SHOAL LIGHTHOUSE
Off Sandy Hook
The shoal and lighthouse are named for the William J. Romer, a vessel which sank here in 1863. Both are located in the approach to the Verrazano Narrows of New York Harbor on the east side of what is known as Ambrose Channel. It is visible from Sandy Hook and the eastern Bayshore region. The maroon and white harbor beacon dates back to 1898. Maintained by the Coast Guard. Closed to the public.

SANDY HOOK LIGHTHOUSE
Off Route 36, Sandy Hook, (732) 872-5970
www.nps.gov/gate
Located near the tip of this seven-mile barrier peninsula is the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse. Lighted for the first time on June 11, 1764, the octagonal tower was the fifth lighthouse in the colonies and remains the oldest operating lighthouse in the U.S. today. The Lighthouse was occupied by British soldiers during the American Revolution and was bombarded by cannons served by Patriot troops. It was also the sanctuary to local refugees who were sympathizers of the King. The grounds around the Lighthouse are open daily, and a video program can also be viewed. The Lighthouse itself is open to climb on Saturdays and Sundays from April through mid-December. Volunteers from the N.J. Lighthouse Society offer tours inside.

SEA GIRT LIGHTHOUSE
9 Ocean Avenue, Sea Girt, (732) 974-0514
In March 1889, Congress approved funds for the establishment of a lighthouse to bridge the forty-mile gap between the Twin Lights Of Navesink and Barnegat Light. In July 1895, a site was chosen: Sea Girt at Wreck Pond, overlooking the Atlantic. One year later, on December 10, 1896, its beacon was illuminated. It would become the last live-in lighthouse to be built on the Atlantic Coast. Five station keepers manned the light from 1896 to 1940. A protector of those at sea, its original Fresnel lens focused the light from a kerosene lamp that could be seen for fifteen miles. During World War II, the Coast Guard patrolled the beaches and used the lighthouse to monitor the U-boat menace off the coast. Today, organizations use this preserved historic site as a meeting place, and schools visit for class trips. Inside are period furnishings, paintings, historic maps, local photographs, and lighthouse memorabilia. Open Sundays 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM.

TWIN LIGHTS OF NAVESINK
Off Route 36, Highlands, (732) 872-1814
Twin Lights Of Navesink is a brownstone double lighthouse. This two-beacon light marked the western entrance to New York Harbor. The south tower became the first electrically operated lighthouse in the United States. The present towers, rising 250 feet above the Sandy Hook Bay, were constructed in 1862. Though decommissioned in 1952, local organizations had a 500-watt blinker light installed in 1962 as a reminder of the Light's heritage. Marconi conducted the first ship-to-shore broadcast here. The museum's exhibit centers around the history of the Twin Lights, marine history, and the U.S. Life-Saving Service.