Description

The six-acre Hooks Creek Lake offers an opportunity for swimming availble at a lifeguarded area from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Also, freshwater fishing is available with appropiate fishing license. 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 charcoal grills are located throughout the park. For larger groups we offer two reservable picnic sites with a small roofed shelter.

The Nature 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.

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. Trails range from .07 to 3 miles . Trail difficulty ranges from easy to moderate with inclines.

Hunting is permitted in designated areas within the Park and is subject to Fish & Wildlife regulations. Contact the Park office for more information.

Geography:

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.

Trails range from .07 to 3 miles.

GPS Corrdinates: DMS 40 ° 26’ 6” N 74° 16' 13" W

Size: 1,569 acres

Recreation:

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.

The Nature 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.

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. Trails range from .07 to 3 miles. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to moderate with inclines.

Facilities:

Campsites: 53 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush toilets and shower facilities are within walking distance. Trailer sanitary dump station available. There is an 11-foot height restriction for vehicles entering the camping area. Open April 1st through October 31. New Jersey Residents: $20 per night; Non-Residents: $25 per night.

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. New Jersey Residents: $3 per person, per night; Non-Residents: $5 per person, per night.

Nearby Attractions:

State Historic Site - Twin Lights Lighthouse
State Park - Liberty State Park
Federal Recreation Area - Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation
Tourist Area - New York City