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Jakes Branch County Park
"The Gateway to the Pine Barrens"

Located just west of the Garden State Parkway in Beachwood NJ, Jakes Branch is the newest addition to the Ocean County park system. Officially dedicated on February 26, 2009, the 400-acre park offers soccer, baseball, tennis and basketball facilities, and a great playground for the kids! There is also a picnic grove with grills and tables. Only 40 acres of this environmentally-sensitive area were developed; the balance will remain in its natural state as preserved open space.

Perhaps best of all is the wonderful nature center! Situated on a 77-foot high hill, the 6,500 s.f. building offers a number of hands-on exhibits relevant to the Pine Barrens, and a live animal exhibit is in progress. An avian observation area gives a great view to watch our feathered friends. The 40-foot tall outdoor observation deck offers a 360' view of the Pine Barrens. It is accessible via the nature center. An elevator is available - take it up, then walk down to enjoy the exhibits en route.) Scheduled for opening in April 2009 is a 3 1/2 mile nature trail through the preserved 360 acres of Pine Barrens.

Jakes Branch County Park - displays

Descriptions of Upland Forests, Pitch Pine Lowlands, Hardwood Swamps and Atlantic White Cedar Swamps in the Pine Barrens of Jakes Branch.


Jakes Branch County Park - displays

View of the Birdwatching area, taken from the stairway to the observation deck.


Jakes Branch County Park - displays

Bird identification display in birding area

Jakes Branch County Park - displays

Diorama of a Pinelands habitat, complete with animals!


Jakes Branch County Park - displays

Footprints in the sand!


Jakes Branch County Park - displays

A rotating magnifying glass enlarges real-life dragonflies, moths, cockroaches, and more!


Jakes Branch County Park - displays

Jake's Branch County Park is at the location of the "Jake's Branch Fire" of 2002. Here, newspaper accounts relive the fire.

Jakes Branch County Park - displays

Displays such as these keep visitors of all ages busy for hours!

Jakes Branch County Park - displays

Although educational, "Nature Recycles" might be disturbing for young visitors, as it depicts a vulture nibbling on a carcase of a dead deer.


Jakes Branch County Park - displays

The stairway to the observation deck offers displays such as this on about "Butterflies of Jakes Branch".

Jakes Branch County Park - observation deck

View of the Observation Deck

Jakes Branch County Park - observation deck

Several plaques offer information about the panoramic views, such as this on about the
Forked River Mountains.

Jakes Branch County Park - observation deck

This view (2008) shows remains of damage from the 1992 fire.


Jakes Branch County Park - observation deck

The deck, reached only by interior stairs or elevator, is sturdy and secure, and safe for little ones (accompanied by an adult, of course). Even this acrophobic writer felt at ease!

Jakes Branch County Park - picnic area

The picnic grove and playgrounds beyond, as viewed from the observation deck (2008 photo).


Jakes Branch County Park - playground

There are two adjacent playgrounds; one for up to 4 and this one, for kids 5 to 12 years old. They are both well-constructed with good safety features in place.




Jakes Branch County Park - playground

Jakes Branch County Park - playground

Jakes Branch County Park
1100 Double Trouble Road
Beachwood, NJ
732-281-2750

 
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The Pine Barrens is becoming a popular tourist destination. It offers history, nature, boating, camping, fishing, swimming, and most of all, peace and tranquility. It's important to families who live here, whether for a few years or many generations, that our peace and tranquility be preserved.A local lawyer or doctor won't look any different than his neighbor who works the land. Thousand dollar suits aren't what impress people of the Pines - taking care of nature and fellow man is what matters. To that end, it is important for you to know that as a visitor to our precious Pine Barrens, you should show respect for the flora and fauna, for the historical buildings or their remains, and show respect for the "locals". Walk and drive gently. Treat our Pine Barrens as you would want a visitor to treat your own home town - and your own family. Thank you.

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