Ocean County Park

Ocean County Park At A Glance...

Historically significant as the former estate of John D. Rockefeller.
Multiple playgrounds, including a large, modern main playground and smaller satellite ones.
Extensive sports facilities: tennis courts, pickleball courts, volleyball courts, softball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, shuffleboard, bocce, discgolf.
cenic paved and unpaved walking and biking paths.
Designated picnic areas with tables and grills.
Diverse collection of tree species, reflecting its arboretum-like past.
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New Jersey Shore Region Ocean County

About Ocean County Park

Ocean County Park, located in Lakewood Township, is a significant historical and recreational landmark in Ocean County. Spanning 323 acres, this beautifully landscaped park was once the northern portion of John D. Rockefeller's "Georgian Court" estate. Today, it offers a diverse array of activities for all ages, centered around the picturesque Lake Shenandoah. With its rich history, mature tree canopy, and extensive facilities, the park serves as a central gathering place and a haven for both active and passive recreation.

Activities:
- Disc Golf / Frisbee Golf
- Fishing
- Jogging / Running
- Playing in the playground
- Skiing / Snowboarding
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Walking
Amenities:
- Sports / Athletic Fields
- Bathrooms
- Beach
- Parking Lot(s)
- Dog Park / Dog Area
- Picnic / Sitting Area
- Benches
- Grills / Firering
- Picnic shelter(s)
- Picnic tables
- Playground
Trails:
- Paved
- Walking Paths
Park Type:
- County Parks
- Dog Park
- Park (General)
- Playground

Contact / Location

Primary Address:

Get Directions Route 88 (Ocean Ave.)
Lakewood, New Jersey 08701
Ocean County

Contact:

Website

Maps & Brochures:

Ocean County Disc Golf Course Map (on facebook)

A Brief History

The land now known as Ocean County Park was originally part of the extensive estate of John D. Rockefeller, established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and named "Georgian Court." This northern section of the estate, which included Lake Shenandoah (created by Rockefeller), was designed by renowned landscape architects like the Olmsted Brothers.

After Rockefeller's time, the estate was acquired by George Jay Gould, and later, this portion was purchased by Ocean County in 1940 to become one of the county's first public parks. The park retains much of its original landscape design, including many mature and exotic tree specimens. The southern portion of the original estate is now home to Georgian Court University.

Programs / Education

Ocean County Parks & Recreation offers a wide variety of programs, some of which are held at Ocean County Park. These can include fitness classes, sports clinics, nature walks, educational programs for children and adults, and summer camps. Check the seasonal program guide on the county parks website for current offerings.

Trail & Path Info

Ocean County Park features a network of paved and unpaved trails suitable for walking, jogging, and biking.
Paved paths wind through the main areas of the park and around Lake Shenandoah, offering scenic views.
Unpaved nature trails are also available for those looking for a more rustic experience.
The terrain is generally flat and accessible.

Things to See & Do

Lake Shenandoah: The centerpiece of the park, offering a sandy swimming beach (seasonal, fee-based) with lifeguards, fishing opportunities (NJ license required), and a scenic backdrop for walks.
Sports & Athletics: The park is well-equipped with 6 tennis courts, 8 pickleball courts, 2 basketball courts, 3 softball fields, 2 soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, bocce courts, and shuffleboard courts. There is also an athletic complex with a running track.
Playgrounds: A large, modern main playground near the lake is very popular, featuring diverse equipment for various age groups. Smaller playgrounds are also located in other sections of the park.
Picnicking: Numerous picnic tables and reservable picnic groves (some with grills) are available.
Walking & Biking: Enjoy miles of paved paths ideal for leisurely strolls, jogging, or biking. Unpaved trails offer a more natural experience.
Historical Appreciation: Observe the mature landscaping and diverse tree species, remnants of the Rockefeller estate's original design.
Community Events: The park regularly hosts large events such as classic car shows, cultural festivals, concerts, and holiday celebrations.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Spring: Pleasant weather for walking, picnicking, and enjoying blooming trees and flowers.
Summer: Ideal for swimming at Lake Shenandoah, utilizing sports facilities, and attending outdoor events. Can be crowded.
Fall: Beautiful autumn foliage, comfortable temperatures for active recreation and exploring the trails.
Winter: Quieter, good for peaceful walks. The stark beauty of the mature trees is evident.

Trip Ideas

Family Beach Day: Spend the day at the Lake Shenandoah swimming area, combined with playground time and a picnic.
Sports & Fitness: Utilize the tennis courts, track, or sports fields, followed by a relaxing walk.
Nature & History Walk: Explore the diverse tree collection and reflect on the park's Rockefeller-era history while strolling the paths.
Community Event Outing: Attend one of the many festivals or car shows for a lively park experience.

Special / Seasonal Events

Classic Car Shows (often held multiple times a year)
Cultural Festivals
Summer Concerts or Movie Nights
Holiday Events (e.g., Easter egg hunts, Christmas tree lighting if applicable)
Check the Ocean County Parks & Recreation events calendar for current listings.

Tips and Tricks

Arrive early on summer weekends, especially if planning to use the swimming beach, as parking can fill up.
Consider purchasing a seasonal beach pass if you plan to swim frequently.
Check the park map on the Ocean County Parks website to locate specific facilities and parking areas.
Pavilions and picnic groves can be reserved for groups; contact the Parks Department for details.
The park is large; wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Dogs are permitted but must be leashed (6-foot maximum) and owners must clean up after them. Dogs are generally not permitted in the swimming beach area.

Picnics / Lunches / Eating

Numerous picnic tables are available throughout the park, many with adjacent grills. Several designated picnic groves can be reserved for larger groups. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food. While there isn't a permanent concession stand for daily food sales (except possibly at the beach area in season), vending machines might be available. Lakewood's commercial areas with restaurants are nearby.

Facilities

Lake Shenandoah with Swimming Beach (seasonal, fee)
Multiple Playgrounds (including a large main one)
Tennis Courts (6)
Pickleball Courts (8)
Basketball Courts (2)
Softball Fields (3)
Soccer Fields (2)
Sand Volleyball Courts
Bocce Courts
Shuffleboard Courts
Athletic Complex with Track
Paved and Unpaved Walking/Biking Trails
Picnic Tables and Grills
Reservable Picnic Groves
Restrooms (located strategically throughout the park)
Ample Parking
Open Fields
Fishing Access
Potential for ice skating on the lake in winter if conditions are safe and officially permitted (check county advisories).

Parking

Ample free parking is available in several large lots throughout the park, serving different activity areas (e.g., near the lake/beach, playgrounds, sports fields). Parking can fill up during peak summer days and major events.

Directions

The main entrance is on Route 88 (Ocean Avenue). The park is well-signed. Once inside, follow park roads to desired areas. The park's large size means some facilities are a considerable walk from others, so parking near your primary destination is advisable.