Monmouth County has so many beautiful locales, but nothing showcases its grandeur like its parks. They’re places you can enjoy throughout the year, as well as with friends and families. Even during the cold months of winter, you can appreciate the calm and relaxing nature of parks on the body, mind, and soul when you go out for a stroll when the weather and timing are just right.
Best of all, there’s a park for just about anyone in Monmouth County, which is why we’ve curated this list on the best parks in Monmouth County. From dog friendly parks, to those that are more ideal for adventure, you’ll find a park that’s perfect for you — so why not visit them when you get the chance?
We’ll continue to update this guide, so that you’re informed about what’s current and new! Don’t forget to check out some of our other guides below.
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Best parks in Monmouth County overview
- Best park
- Best park for dogs
- Best park for families
- Best park for bike trails
- Best park for running
Best park in Monmouth County: Thompson Park
Location: 805 Newman Springs Rd, Lincroft, NJ 07738
Size: 675 acres
Website: https://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/page.aspx?ID=2539
Why we picked Thompson Park:
Thompson Park is the largest parks in Monmouth County, covering an astounding 675 acres. It earns our best park in Monmouth County award primarily for the fact that it encompasses just about everything you want in a park. It features a reservable group picnic area that’s ideal for summer celebrations, its own dog park for our fluffy friends, and paved trails that are perfect for joggers and bikers.
Best park for dogs: Dorbrook Recreation Area
Location: 353 County Rd 537, Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Size: 535 acres
Website: https://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/page.aspx?Id=2519
Why we picked Dorbrook Recreation Area:
If you’re looking for a dog friendly park in Monmouth County for your favorite pooch to enjoy, look no further than Dorbrook Recreation Area in Colts Neck, NJ. This 535 acre park permits dogs on a six foot leash onto its trails, covering about 2.5 miles of paved trails in the park, which is plenty for you and your four legged pup to enjoy.
Best park for families: Holmdel Park
Location: 44 Longstreet Rd, Holmdel, NJ 07733
Size: 619 acres
Website: https://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/page.aspx?Id=2526
Why we picked Holmdel Park:
Looking to please everyone in the family? Well then, check out Holmdel Park because of its diversity. Not only is it filled with beautiful locales, but it also features picnic areas, tennis courts, a couple of playground, paved loop trail, and much more. Whether it’s for the kids’ enjoyment or a family picnic, Holmdel Park has everything you need in a family friendly park in Monmouth County.
Best park for bike trails: Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area
Location: 26 Hudson Rd, Highlands, NJ 07732
Size: 1,665 acres
Website: https://www.nps.gov/gate/planyourvisit/sandy-hook.htm
Why we picked Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area:
When you’re on a bike, a constant change of scenery certainly helps to keep the experience lively. Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area is simply massive, giving bikers nearly 8.7 miles of trails to work with. The fact that it runs through many of Sandy Hook’s beaches makes it a scenic bike ride, but it’s made better if you explore farther into the park to where the Sandy Hook lighthouse is situated.
Best park for running: Manasquan Reservoir
Location: 311 Windeler Rd, Howell Township, NJ 07731
Size: 1,204 acres
Website: https://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/page.aspx?Id=2531
Why we picked Manasquan Reservoir:
Running is different for everyone, but it helps when you’re doing it at a picturesque location. That’s simply why Manasquan Reservoir in Howell makes our list with its 5-mile perimeter trail perfect for runners. Not only are there paved trails, but the scenic view of the reservoir helps to keep runners calm, focused, and relaxed. There are some softer surfaces to run on, like some of the trails that branch in and out of the main path around the reservoir, which also helps to avoid bikers and other pedestrians.