Manasquan Reservoir

Manasquan Reservoir At A Glance...

• 5+ mile multi-use trail around the reservoir
• Boat Launch, and kayak/row boat rentals
• Beautiful nature center, with programs throughout the year.
• Todays Sunrise: 7:15 am,   Sunset: 4:37 pm  
• New Jersey Shore Region Monmouth County

• Activities:

  • Equestrian / Horseback
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
    More like walking
  • Jogging / Running
  • Mountain Bike
  • Paddling - Kayak, Canoe, row boat
    Boat launch fees apply. Boat/Kayak rentals available
  • Playing in the playground
  • Walking

  Amenities:

  • Bathrooms
  • Boat launch
    Fees apply
  • Parking Lot(s)
  • Nature / Environmental Center
  • Picnic / Sitting Area
  • Benches
  • Picnic tables
  • Playground
    These can be found near the main boat rental area

  Shop/Services/Rentals:

  • Kayak / Canoe / Rowboat Rentals
    Kayak and row boat rentals available

  Trails:

  • Crushed rock

  Park Type:

  • County Parks
  • Park (General)
  • Playground
    These can be found near the main boat rental area

Contact / Location

Trail & Path Info

There is a multi-use trail that follows perimeter ofthe reservoir. It is 5.1 miles in length, and between 8 and 10 feet wide. It is primarily crushed rock, with good drainage... meaning not too much mud. There is a small amount of elevation change as the trail follows the hilly landscape.

You will also find a few smaller trails throughout the park that are for pedestrian use.

Trip Ideas

A Picnic and a Walk

• On a nice summer afternoon we'll head on over to Rt 9, pick up lunchand head to the park. Specifically, to the main building off Windler Rd (not the nature center).
• Once there, you can find a a few picnic tables to enjoy your lunch.
• With full bellies, head out onto the parameter trail for a 5 mile walk/bike ride. We recommend taking the trail counter-clockwise since it feels more comfortable, but just as challenging.

Relaxing next to the fire

• On a snowy afternoon, when roads are safe for travel, head to the main building off Windler Rd (not the nature center) to "curl up" in front of the fireplace with a good book. The falling snow, ice on the water, and warming fire make for a great afternoon.

Everything else

• While visiting the park, we would recommend hitting up the nature center for a boat tour or to receive a healthy dose of environmental education.
• You can also rent a boat (row boat or kayak), for a trip around the reservoir.

Special / Seasonal Events

There are special events throughout the year put on by the Monmouth County Parks department. You will find boat races, walks, education events and more. To view these events, please visit the Monmouth County Park link above.

Picnics / Lunches / Eating

There are a few nice picnic areas found around the park. It would be best to review the map to find them.

Admission & Guidelines

There is no fee to enter the park, trails, or nature center.

There is a fee to use theboat launch (for any boats, kayaks, canoes, etc). Seasonal boat launch passes are available at the park office.

There may be fees for special programs offered by the park system.

Parking

You will find multiple parking areas around the park. One can be found off Windler Road. This entrance also brings you to the main boat launch area and main clubhouse where you can rent boats and kayaks. Another lot can be found off Georgia Tavern Rd. This lot gives you direct access to the perimeter trail, and is a favorite place for fishermen to park. The last lot is found near the Nature Center. The entrance to the Nature Center can also be found on Georgia Tavern Rd. See the map for more information on this.

Below are a few groups that we have connected to Manasquan Reservoir. If we are missing any, please let us know

• Monmouth County Parks System