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43 history, and natural surroundings of the Pine Barrens. Breathtaking views of the seemingly end- less pine forest can be taken in from the obser- vation deck atop the Nature Center. Jakes Branch also offers soccer, baseball/softball, tennis, 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 FIELD COMPLEX 660 Ocean Avenue (Route 88) and 300 New Hampshire Avenue Lakewood, 1-877-OC PARKS www.oceancountyparks.org Tall oaks and pines surround gorgeous Lake Shenandoah, which is the focal point of this 143- acre park. Trout-stocked waters, accessible fishing piers, and an on-site bait-and-tackle shop with boat rentals make this spot perfect for freshwater fishing, from land or water. There is a small boat launch (electric motors only), a conservation area, picnic area, playground, and bike trail. At the 84-acre sports field complex area, there are basket- ball courts, six soccer fields, and two softball fields, which are also available for use. (Pre-registration is required.) In the spring and fall, the fields are busy with local teams and excited onlookers. MANASQUAN RESERVOIR Park and Visitor Center: 311 Windeler Road, Howell (732) 919-0996 or (732) 842-4000 Environmental Center: 331 Georgia Tavern Road, Howell (732) 751-9453 www.monmouthcountyparks.com Please refer to the listing under "Boat Rides & Sightseeing 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 a daily or seasonal ramp fee. Rent boats too! Or tour the reservoir on a thirty-six foot pon- toon 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. $6. for adults and $4. for twelve and under. In the winter, the reservoir is open for ice skating, ice boating, and ice fishing (depending upon weather conditions). 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! MANTOLOKING BRIDGE FISHING PIER 30 Mantoloking Road, Brick 1-877-OC PARKS www.oceancountyparks.org With great views of Barnegat Bay, this park caters to anglers, crabbers, and sightseers. On the Brick side of the Mantoloking Bridge, the 70-foot-long fishing and crabbing pier also features a board- walk, picnic area, sun shade, gazebo, and lighted paths. Park goers have access to a second pier on the south side of the bridge, as well as Traders Cove Marina and Park (maintained by the Brick Township Department of Parks & Recreation). MILL CREEK COUNTY PARK AND FLORENCE T. ALLEN CONSERVATION AREA 110 and 111 Chelsea Avenue Berkeley Township, 1-877-OC PARKS www.oceancountyparks.org 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. The park'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, trails, grills, restrooms, handicapped accessible. This park is also the future site of the Ocean County Sailing Center. The Florence T. Allen Conservation Area consists of 45 acres of cedar swamp and uplands bordering Mill Creek. These wetlands protect Mill Creek as it flows into the Toms River. MONMOUTH BATTLEFIELD AND MONMOUTH BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK 16 Business Route 33, Manalapan (732) 462-9616 www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/ parks/monbat.html This is where Molly Pitcher became famous during a Revolutionary battle. It was on the Monmouth Battlefield that General Washington and General Sir Henry Clinton faced each other. This victory convinced the British that the rev- olutionaries were a force to contend with and not just a ragtag rabble. This is also the setting for the historic Craig House. Learn more about the rich history of Monmouth Battlefield through wayside exhibits located on Perrine Hill, Combs Hill, and the Hedgerow. Visitors Center, birding, picnic areas, trails, and playgrounds. Sledding and cross-country skiing in winter. Continued on page 44