Manasquan Reservoir Trails

Directions:

Garden State Parkway to Exit 98, Interstate I-195 west. Proceed on I-195 west to Exit 28B, Rt. 9 north-Freehold. Stay in right lane when entering Rt. 9 north. At first traffic light, turn right onto Georgia Tavern Road. Follow Georgia Tavern Road for 0.3 mile. Turn right onto Windeler Rd. Continue 1.5 miles to the Reservoir Area on left.

If approaching from Freehold: State Hwy. 9 south from Freehold to Georgia Tavern Rd. Use Jughandle to turn left onto Georgia Tavern Rd. Proceed on Georgia Tavern Rd. for 0.3 mile. Turn right onto Windeler Rd. Continue 1.5 miles to the Reservoir Area on left.

Manasquan Reservoir Park Overview

The Manasquan Reservoir not only provides a source of water for municipalities and utilities but also offers some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in Monmouth County. Besides the Reservoir, the 1,200 acre park includes woods and wetlands which provides the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Birds and waterfowl including Great Blue Herons, Ospreys, and Double-crested Cormorants are among the 200 species of birds that can be found at the Reservoir. Perhaps The Manasquan Reservoir is also the best site for bald eagles in Monmouth County. Frogs, turtles, snakes, deer, red fox, raccoon and other upland species also make their home at the park.

Trail Description

The Manasquan Reservoir is a great place to spend a day mountain biking with family and friends. The scenic 5 foot wide gravel perimeter that trail skirts the Reservoir is open for biking, hiking and horse-back riding. Much of the trail passes through wooded areas, providing some shade in the summer. Distance markers are located at mile intervals along the route. It is obstacle free and mostly level with a few slight inclines. The trail crosses several bridges and park benches along the way provide a place to sit and enjoy panoramic views of the Reservoir. People of all ages and ability levels will enjoy biking on this trail.

Popular activities during the winter months: Cross-county skiing or ice skating. On a clear winter day, why not go mountain biking? The wooded trails block much of the cold wind. Warm up by the fireplace at the Visitors Center.

Note: Avoid entering wetland areas. It is designated wildlife habitat.

Park Features:

• The Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center: Provides visitors with interactive experiences of learning and discovery related to wetlands ecology and wildlife habitat protection.
• The Manasquan Reservoir Visitor Center: Enjoy spectacular views of the reservoir from the Visitor's Center second level observation deck. The building includes a lounge area with fireplace, food concession, and rest rooms.
• Kayak & Rowboat Rentals: Boating & fishing are popular activities on the Reservoir. Since gasoline engines are not permitted (electric motors only), it is a peaceful, natural setting. There is a bait shop on the lower level of the Visitors Center where you can also find vending machines and rest rooms.
• Guided boat tours: Seasonal. Tours are conducted on a 36-foot pontoon boat which seats up to 30 people. The 40-minute tour takes visitors around the Reservoir and includes discussion of its history, use as a water source, and wildlife habitat. Visitors are invited to bring binoculars for up-close observation of the abundant wildlife that call the Reservoir home.

For more information:

Manasquan Reservoir:
805 Newman Springs Road
Lincroft - New Jersey 07738

Visitor Center Phone: (732) 919-0996

Environmental Center Phone: (732) 751-9453
(TDD): (732) 219-9484 (The Monmouth County Park System)
Website: Monmouth County Park System

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