Department of Environmental Protection

Cheesequake State Park’s uniqueness lies in its geographical location. Not only is it situated in the middle of the urban north and the suburban south, it lies in a transitional zone between two different ecosystems. Open fields, saltwater and freshwater marshes, a white cedar swamp, Pine Barrens, and a northeastern hardwood forest are the main characteristics of the park.

Through the Carry-In/Carry-Out Program you can help us keep your parks clean and beautiful by carrying out the trash you carry in. Bags are provided throughout the site. Thank you for your cooperation and remember to recycle.

Open daily 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Winter Office Hours: Monday – Friday through March 31
Note: Camping is closed through March 31.
Note: The park will continue to offer nature programs on the weekends. Call ahead to confirm dates and times.

A striking example of vegetation change along a gradient from coastal salt marsh habitat to upland forests can be observed from the various trails running through the natural area. The natural area displays a diversity of plant species and community types characteristic of both northern and southern New Jersey.

Interpretive Center

The Interpretive Center is located a short distance from the trailhead parking area on the Red/ Green/ Blue trail. Visitors are welcome to view the wildlife historical exhibits throughout the Center. Visitors can learn about the three habitats located within Cheesequake State Park. The Center also provides information on the Native American and early colonization of the area.

The center is open from Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and seven days a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Note: The registration for the Kayak eco-tours has been filled for the 2009 spring/summer season. You can call the Interpretive Center for possible openings.

The Interpretive Center provides free weekly interpretive programming focusing on a variety of seasonal topics. Consult the Calendar of Events online or call the Center for details at (732) 566-3208.

Trails

There are five designated trails at the park. The Red, Yellow, Green and Blue pathways are for hiking and walking use. The White Trail (multi-use) is designated for hiking and mountain biking. Trail lengths range from 1.5 to 3.5 miles. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to moderate with inclines.

For forms and information on booking a campsite visit our: reservations page

Campsites: 53 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets and shower facilities are within walking distance. Trailer sanitary station available. There is an 11-foot height restriction for vehicles entering the camping area. Open April 1st through October 31. $20 per night, six people per site, two vehicles per site.

Group campsites: The Gordon Field group area has fire rings, upright grills and picnic tables. There are six individual sites accommodating up to 25 campers each. The area facilities include flush toilets and potable water. Trash must be carried out. Open May 1st through October 31st. $25 per night.

Campground Map (Low resolution for viewing purposes)
Campground Map (High resolution for printing purposes) File
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The six-acre Hooks Creek Lake offers an opportunity for freshwater fishing. Trout, Largemouth Bass, Catfish, and Sunfish provide the angler with a variety of freshwater species. Fishing is subject to all NJ Fish and Wildlife regulations.

Crabbing is also available from the Crabbing Bridge which is reachable from the lake parking area. The bridge and walkway are ADA accessible.

Several picnic areas with table and grills are located throughout the Park. For larger groups, we also offer two reservable picnic areas. The group picnic area at Farny Point holds a capacity of 150 people, provides shelter and playfields. The group picnic area at Spring Hill holds a capacity of 100 people and provides playfields and playground equipment. Reservable picnic areas are not available on weekends from memorial day through labor day. Group picnicking reservations are required for weekday events. A party of 20 or more people constitutes a group. They may be reserved for a fee:

NOTE: There is no group picnicking on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. No alcohol is permitted. Trash must be carried out.

• Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.

Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form* downloadable here. Payment in full of the appropriate group picnicking fee must accompany this application.

Permitted the day after Labor Day through the day before Memorial Day weekend. Canoeing, kayaking and boating with facilities for car top boat launching only. Boaters must comply with all NJ State Boating regulations. Electronic motors only. No boat/canoe rental facilities

From the GSP: Take exit 120 and make a right at the end of the exit ramp and follow to the first light. Make a right. At the next light make a right and follow road into the Park.

From Route 34 South: Make a left turn onto Disbrow Road which is the light immediately south of the Marketplace Shopping Plaza. Make a right at the end of Disbrow Road. Make a left at the first light and follow into the Park.

From Route 34 North: Make a right turn onto Disbrow Road which is the light immediately north of the Berg Animal Hospital. Make a right at the end of Disbrow Road. Make a left at the first light and follow into the Park.