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2 JAKES BRANCH COUNTY PARK AND NATURE CENTER 1100 Double Trouble Road, Beachwood, (732) 281-2750 www.ocean.nj.us/Parks/jakesbranch. html Known as "The Gateway to the Pines," Jakes Branch County Park offers a balance of active and passive recreation opportunities. The nature center in the park highlights the beauty, history, and natural surroundings of the Pine Barrens. Breathtaking views of the seemingly endless Pine Barrens can be taken in from the observa- tion deck perched atop the nature center. Jakes Branch also offers soccer, baseball/softball, ten- nis, and basketball in addition to miles of nature trails. The tot lot, picnic grove, and open playing fields appeal to children of all ages. LAKE SHENANDOAH COUNTY PARK AND SPORTS COMPLEX 600 Route 88 East OR 300 New Hampshire Avenue Lakewood, 1-877-OC PARkS Tall oaks and pines surround the gorgeous 100- acre Lake Shenandoah, which is the focal point of this 143 acre park. Trout-stocked waters, acces- sible fishing piers, and an on-site bait-and-tackle shop with boat rentals make this spot perfect for freshwater fishing, from land or water. Small boat launch (electric motors only), conservation area, picnic area, and bike trail. See also "Shenandoah County Field Sports Complex." MANASQUAN RESERVOIR 311 Windeler Road, Howell Township (732) 919-0996 or (732) 842-4000 www.monmouthcountyparks.com Please refer to our listing under Canoeing & Kayaking and Boat Rides & Cruises. County operated public recreation area on 1,203 acre reservoir. Hike, picnic, or put in your own canoe, kayak, or electric powered boat and pay daily or seasonal ramp fee. Rent boats too! Or tour the reservoir on a thirty-six foot pontoon boat with a guide who will introduce you to the area's plants and wildlife. Forty minute weekend tours from Memorial Day to the end of September. $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for twelve and under. Be sure to visit the Environmental Center on 331 Georgia Tavern Road. Dedicated to providing experiences of learning and discovery of wetland ecology and wildlife and habitat protection, the Environmental Center is open daily 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Free! MILL CREEK COUNTY PARK Mill Creek Road and 111 Chelsea Avenue Berkeley Township, (877) OC PARkS Mill Creek County Park is located in Berkeley Township between Pine Beach and Ocean Gate. Cedar chip trails, the Mill Creek, the Toms River, and three playgrounds make this a scenic and inviting park. It's 14 acres offer the perfect spot for a family picnic under the pavilion or at one of several secluded picnic tables. Basketball, conservation area, handicapped accessible, grills, restrooms, trails. Continued on page 30 courtesy of Monmouth County Park System Longstreet Farm in Holmdel Park.