By Shalini Rajamani
Popular State Parks in NJ
With spring around the corner and the dreams of summer in our eyes, let’s talk about my favorite state parks to visit in our own Garden State. These parks make for enjoyable day trips with the entire family. Along with their beautiful hikes, they also offer picturesque views, interesting flora and fauna, and adventures such as electric boating and kayaking.
Know about more places to visit via this link: https://theconnectionsnj.com/category/family-adventures/
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
History – The lighthouse was built as one of the most important points for coastal vessels. These vessels from and to NY along the NJ coastline depended on the Barnegat lighthouse to avoid the shoals extending from the shoreline.
With a 360-degree panoramic view of Barnegat Bay, Island Beach, and inlets, the lighthouse is the focal point and the most amazing feature of this park. The climb to the lighthouse is challenging with 217 steps and has many landing areas for breaks.
Timings – Lighthouse hours are from 10:30-2:30 pm from Memorial Day to Labor Day, weather permitting.
Fees – $3 to climb the lighthouse. Children, ages 6-11, $1. Children under 5, free.
Things to do – There is a handicapped-friendly jetty where you can enjoy the views of the boats and some local birds. Swimming is not allowed, and pets must always be leashed. There is also ample parking available and a good time to visit would be mornings around 11 am when the lighthouse is not crowded.
https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/barnegatlighthousestatepark.html
Allaire State Park
History –The Allaire Village is famous for being home to the historic 19th-century ironmaking town and its restored and well-maintained antique steam trains. The Manasquan River which runs through the park is used for activities like fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking.
Timings – Open from 8-4:30 pm.
Fees – Entrance fee is charged per vehicle. My favorite part is the train ride with two quick loops with the conductor giving you the full history of the park. The train ride is $4 for adult riders and kids ride free.
Things to do – One can enjoy 200 species of wildflower plants as well as birds and wildlife. This park is also very popular for its wedding chapel and its camping sites. We spent about half a day in the park and loved every bit of this experience as a family.
https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/allairestatepark.html
Cheesequake State Park:
A park with two different ecosystems: the northern forest meeting the southern Pine Barrens ecosystem at sea level. This makes it ideal for hikers and for enjoying the diversity of flora and fauna.
The park offers 5 trails ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 miles. We enjoyed walking the Green trail which was 3.1 miles, not too strenuous, and was shaded and pleasant. The trails are well marked and neatly maintained.
Fees – Parking is free.
Pointers – Swimming is permitted from Memorial Day to Labor Day with very clean changing areas and restrooms. However, the bottom is a little weedy, so it does not appeal to all. Please do enjoy the several small picnic areas with tables and grills.
https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/cheesequakestatepark.htm
Ringwood State Park
History – The Skyland Manor and the Botanical gardens were designed in the the1920s. The Manor was home to many well-known ironmasters from 1740 to the late 19th century.
Location – This park is situated in Passaic County in the heart of the Ramapo Mountains in Ringwood and is home to several beautiful country manors, NJ Botanical gardens, and the Shepherd Lake Recreation area.
Timings – The Manor is open for tours one Sunday a month from March until November.
Fee – There is a $10 entrance fee. The park is open to the public all year round.
Pointers – The garden offers a spectacular view of the Ramapo Mountains and houses a myriad variety of plants and evergreens. Shepherd Lake is great for swimming. Electric boating and fishing are permitted. My advice is to get there early to get a kayak as they go out fast.
https://nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/ringwoodstatepark.html