Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/979583
44 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). 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. MOUNT MITCHILL SCENIC OVERLOOK 460 Ocean Boulevard Atlantic Highlands, (732) 842-4000 www.monmouthcountyparks.com This is the Jersey Shore's highest point—266 feet above sea level—and is the second highest point on the Atlantic seaboard (after Maine's Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park). The overlook's 12 acres offer spectacular views of Sandy Hook, Raritan Bay, and the NYC skyline and features picnic tables and a playground. Mount Mitchill is home to Monmouth County's 9/11 Memorial. The memorial is a tribute to the 147 men and women born, raised, or residing in Monmouth County who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. OCEAN COUNTY PARK 659 Ocean Avenue (Route 88) Lakewood, 1-877-OC PARKS www.oceancountyparks.org This magnificent 323-acre facility in Lakewood has a rich and fascinating history. Ocean County Park was originally part of Financier John D. Rockefeller's vacation estate. White pine, hemlock, and other unique specimen trees, now mature, were imported by Rockefeller from all over the country. Fitness and bike trails, tennis courts, open playing fields, beach volleyball, canoeing, fishing, and even a driving range, all free of charge, appeal to adults of all ages. Children will delight in using the playgrounds or swimming in the large, clean swimming lake on hot summer days. Ocean County Park has a large, accessible picnic facility. Reservations are available for a nominal fee for up to 700 persons. Warm weather isn't the only time to enjoy this park. Transformed into a lovely and silent winter wonderland after a snowfall, it's a great site for cross-country skiing. Of course, there is no charge for casual use of the park, the beach, or its many facilities. An off-leash dog park area is also avail- able. Yearly fee applies. Visit website for details. PARKS & RECREATION AREAS Continued from page 43 Ocean County Parks & Recreation/Lisa O'Neill Ocean County Park in Lakewood. Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area. Paul Scharff