Ocean County Park, the flagship park of the Ocean County Park System, offers summertime swimming, a winter wonderland, and lots of

year-round activities. Originally the summer estate

of oil magnate John D. Rockefeller, it consists of 300 acres in northern Ocean County.

The park boasts huge stands of silver-green pines as well as dozens of specimen trees planted in the 1920s and ’30s under the direction of the Rockefellers. Biking and hiking trails now meander through the wooded areas, a world of solitude.

Park features include:

Swimming facilities — A swimming lake with fresh waters from underground aquifers also features a sandy beach that’s protected by lifeguards. The beach complex includes restroom facilities with showers nearby. Pavilion provides a roofed area for your picnic lunch. Natural amphitheater — Adjacent to the complex is the site of many activities throughout the year, such as the Lakeside Children’s Theater series, which offers plays during July and August, and “Funtasia for Kids” in July.

Picnic facilities — A reservation will assure you a spot for up to 700 picnickers. Grills and tables are supplied. Call early in the season to reserve a spot, because spaces fill up quickly. For reservation fees and more information, or to print out a picnic application, visit the website at www.oceancountyparks.org

Tennis complex — Open year-round, it consists of 10 regulation courts, which are available on a first-come, firstserved basis at no charge. The pro shop is the base for tournaments that take place from spring through autumn, as well as the hub for the park’s tennis instructors, who offer lessons for all age groups and experience levels from spring through autumn. Biking — is popular along the park’s many bike trails. Cross country skiing — After a freshly fallen snow, the park becomes a winter wonderland as skiers whoosh across the terrain.

Golf — The driving range is located just before the park exit. The range, available at no cost, is yardage-marked. Bring your own clubs, balls and shag-bag.

Playgrounds — From swings and slides to sandboxes, it’s fully equipped and handicap-accessible.

Lake Fishigan — It may not be a real challenge to the experienced angler, but you can be sure the little tots will thrill at casting their first line.

Open fields — The fields are great for Frisbee, softball or just basking in the summer sun.

Dog Park — A 5-acre off-leash dog park is a contained area where dog owners can allow their pets to run free and exercise off-leash. There are registration and fee requirements, including proof of valid dog license and current vaccinations. Payment of $25 first dog and $10 for each additional dog is required.

Ocean County Park • Route 88 , Lakewood 877-OCParks • www.oceancountyparks.org

Directions: from Garden State Parkway southbound, exit 91 (Route 549/Lanes Mill Road) south to Route 88, then west on Route 88 about 2 miles to park entrance on right. Northbound: exit 90 (Route 549/Chambers Bridge Rd.) to jughandle for U-turn; north about 1/2 mile to Route 88, then west on Route 88 about 2 miles to park entrance on right.