Cheesequake State
Park
The Park offers
a variety of outdoor experiences. During the busy summer months, the park
suggests calling ahead to determine if it has reached its maximum carrying
capacity.
Open fields, salt and freshwater marshes, a white cedar swamp,
a sample of the pine barrens, and an outstanding example of a northeastern
hardwood forest make up this 1,274 acre park. Look around for wildlife. Migratory
birds fly over this area during their annual migrations; the local birding
list includes 186 species of birds within the park.
The park offers a variety of recreational activities from
swimming and sun bathing at Hooks Creek Lake, hiking along scenic trails,
and picnicking, to camping, fishing, and biking. The Interpretive Center is
easily accessible from the Trail system and contains exhibits about the different
habitats, plants, animals, and man’s former uses of the area.
Directions: Garden State Parkway travelers should take
exit 120 (from the "local traffic" lanes.) At the first traffic
light, turn right onto Cliffwood Avenue, and follow it to the "T"
intersection with Gordon Road. Turn right onto Gordon road, and follow the
signs into the park (approximately ½ mile).
Hours: Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, the park
is open from 8:00am to 8:00pm, and the office is open from 8:00am to 6:00pm
(8:00pm on Friday and Saturday.) Hours vary during the remainder of the year.
Telephone: (732) 566-2161.
Waterfront resources under development as part of the Harbor
Walk include the 1904 Ferry Slip to Tottenville, Municipal Marina, 1929 Armory,
ca. 1880 Raritan Yacht Club headquarters, 1880 Great Beds Light, and ca. 1780
Kearny Cottage. Except for Great Beds Light which sits in the waters of Raritan
Bay, all are located near the waterfront on Smith Street, Front Street, Water
Street, and Catalpa Avenue.
Directions: From Exit 10 of the New Jersey Turnpike,
take state road 440 east to the State Street exit. Continue on State Street
until you come to the intersection with Lewis Street. Turn right on Lewis
for one block, then left on Catalpa, and follow it to the waterfront.
Hours: A public park area, generally open from dawn
to dusk. You may call the City of Perth Amboy for details.
Telephone: (732) 442-6421.
