Cheesequake State Park

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Park Overview:

The uniqueness of this park lies in its geographical location in a transitional zone between two different ecosystems. In its 386-acre Natural Area one can see a diversity of plant species and community types characteristic of both northern and southern New Jersey.
Trail Uses:Hiking, Mountain biking, X-C skiing, Handicapped
Dogs:
Trail Miles:9.5 miles
Park Acreage:1569 acres
City/County/
State:		Matawan/Middlesex/NJ
Park Description:

This park is a botanical preserve comprised mostly of salt marsh, pine barrens and mixed oak forest. An Interpretive Center, located a short distance from the trailhead parking area on the Red/Green/Blue trail offers informative exhibits, providing the public with an educational journey through the park's ecosystems. There is a small auditorium and the building has a small covered front deck that makes a wonderful spot to birdwatch. Check its website for a calendar of events or call for details at (732) 566-3208.

We are especially interested in hikes from The Jersey Shore Region where this park is located. Click for further information and a submission form.
Trails Overview:

Cheesequake State Park has four marked loop trails, for hiking only, that start at the Interpretive Center. Click for trail map.

  • The 1.9-mile Blue Trail crosses a salt marsh on a long boardwalk, runs along Perrine Pond, and returns to the start along several roads.
  • The 2.9-mile Green Trail is the parks longest and most varied in the park. It leads through a designated Natural Area, with pitch pines, a hardwood forest, a freshwater marsh and an Atlantic white cedar swamp.
  • The 1.3-mile Red Trail is a shortened version of the Green Trail, suitable for easier hikes.
  • The 0.7-mile Yellow Trail is a short loop trail marked with signposts that identify a number of interesting features along the trail.

In addition a wiggly, 2.7-mile white-blazed multi-use trail is open to hikers, bicyclists and cross country skiers. It has several acrobatic hike jumps along the way, with pedestrian bypasses. 

A portion of the park is ADA accessible near the Family Campground parking area.

 
Directions:
  • From the GSP: Take exit 120 and make a right at the end of the exit ramp and follow to the first light. Make a right. At the next light make a right and follow road into the Park.
  • From Route 34 South: Make a left turn onto Disbrow Road which is the light immediately south of the Marketplace Shopping Plaza. Make a right at the end of Disbrow Road. Make a left at the first light and follow into the Park.
  • From Route 34 North: Make a right turn onto Disbrow Road which is the light immediately north of the Berg Animal Hospital. Make a right at the end of Disbrow Road. Make a left at the first light and follow into the Park.
Contact Information:Cheesequake State Park
732-566-2161
Region:Jersey Shore
Fees:Some times and places; check with park