When you think of the Jersey Shore, it’s common for visions of busy boardwalks and sandy beaches to come immediately to mind. While these certainly embody many of the Shore’s highlights, Ocean and Monmouth Counties also feature a number of beautiful state parks overflowing with New Jersey’s stunning natural beauty!
Here are a few worth a look!
Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area
Located near the mouth of the Manasquan River along the southern boundary of Monmouth County in the town of Manasquan, the Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area is a popular local stopover, especially for those of the canine persuasion. The small beach along the Manasquan River has become a popular meeting place for man’s best friend; the gentle grade of the beach makes for a great swimming hot spot!
The park also features 55-acres of marshland with scenic trails along the riverfront and views looking into the community of Point Pleasant across the water. The beaches are also popular launch points for kayaks and canoes, an ideal starting point for explorations of the river, Crabtown Creek, or the Glimmering Glass.
Allaire State Park
Straddling the border between Howell and Wall Township in Monmouth County, Allaire State Park is best known for its restored 19th century ironworks found in Allaire Village. The beautifully preserved village features authentic period buildings including a General Store, Blacksmith’s Shop and several others. The Pine Creek Railroad is the perfect way to see it all too; the tourist railroad is maintained by the New Jersey Museum of Transportation.
The more developed portion of the park features a recreational area featuring covered picnic tables and charcoal BBQs. The park also features numerous hiking trails, ranging from beginner to moderate difficulty. The natural oasis is perfect for a day trip with the family, or even overnight camping year-round. Traditional campsites are available in addition to yurts, small cabins, and even RV hook ups in the summer.
Island Beach State Park
Island Beach State Park is located just south of the communities of Seaside Heights, Lavallette and Mantoloking along the picturesque Barnegat Peninsula. The expansive park area makes up the largest reserve of undeveloped land on a barrier island anywhere in New Jersey! The park features many miles of beautifully pristine beachfront; kayaking, fishing, swimming and even dune buggies are all permitted on certain points of the beach.
The southern section of the park is encompassed by the 1600-acres Sedge Island Marine Conservation Area! The stunning wilderness preserve features a one-of-a-kind, narrow maritime forest consisting mainly of short trees and bushes.
Fantastic for bird-watching, bird blinds have been set up to make viewing the areas Heron and Osprey easier! Also the unique Blue Crab can be glimpsed along the shallow waters of the preserve.
Are you interested in making a home here on the Jersey Shore? Clayton and Clayton have been involved in the buying and selling of New Jersey real estate for decades; please give us a call at 732-295-2222 or contact us online if you'd like to learn more!
Posted by Shawn Clayton on
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