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August 2019 Events
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August
(please contact event sponsor to confirm date and time)

 
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August
August 1 through August 31 – Ride the train every day 
Diesel Train Operates Daily
Noon to 4 p.m. on Weekdays; Noon - 4:30 p.m. on Weekends
Fee: Park entrance fee weekends and holidays only, train ticket $4 per person-more for special events. Kids 2 & younger ride FREE.
Allaire State Park
Pine Creek Railroad
Sponsor: NJ Museum of Transportation
(732) 938-5524
Note: Train leaves every half hour, weather permitting

August Every Wednesday through Sunday
GUIDED TOURS OF RINGWOOD MANOR
10am to 3pm (last tour begins at 3pm)
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free.
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
Note: Only first floor is ADA accessible
Enjoy a guided tour of the summer estate of the Cooper & Hewitt families, wealthy iron industrialists of the Gilded Age. Thirty of the 51 rooms, furnished in the original items of the family, are shown on the tour. Tours last approximately an hour and 15 minutes.

August 3, 4 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25 & 31
HISTORIC CARRIAGE BARN EXHIBIT OPEN
11am to 4pm
Fee: None to enter carriage barn exhibit
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
ADA accessible: Yes
Enjoy our newly opened carriage barn exhibit at Ringwood Manor! Visitors can walk through a restored portion of the historic building and view three original carriages along with equestrian equipment of the Hewitt family. Interpretive panels allow for a self-guided tour. Staff is on hand to answer questions. 

August 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 30 & 31
LONG POND IRONWORKS MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTER
9:00am-4pm
Fee: Donations welcome
Long Pond Ironworks State Park
973-657-1688
Sponsor: Friends of Long Pond Ironworks
Note: ADA accessible

August 2

Rid Litter Day
9 am to 10:30 am
Fee: None; pre-registration required by August 1
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
Note: For teens & adults
Do good on Goodale Road by picking up litter along a 2.5-mile round-trip walk. Bags, gloves, and light refreshments provided.

Hike to Happy Hour at Angry Erik Brewing
5 pm to 8 pm
Fee: $7 (beverages additional); pre-registration with payment required by August 1
Warbasse Junction Rd. parking area
(973) 786-6445
Sponsor: Kittatinny Valley State Park
Note: For ages 21 & over
Celebrate “International Beer Day” with a brisk 5-mile round-trip hike to enjoy happy hour snacks and beverages (optional) at our midway pit-stop.

August 3

Six, Eight, or More Bug Walk
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee; pre-registration recommended
Round Valley Recreation Area
South Parking Lot
(908) 236 -6355
Note: We’ll hike through both the woods and a meadow looking for insects and other multi-legged critters.  We’ll learn about camouflage and mimicry and see how higher order animals use these same strategies to avoid predators

Outwater’s Militia Trade and Craft Fair & 18th Century Military Encampment
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Washington Crossing State Park
Visitor Center Museum
(609) 737-0623
Note: ADA accessible.  Learn about the life and times of the Revolutionary War soldier in New Jersey.

Observatory Tour and Telescope Viewing
8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

James P. Allaire’s Birthday and Guild Day
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Historic Allaire Village
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
(732) 919-3500
Note: Speeches and Fanfare to celebrate the day

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

Astronomy Presentation and Star Watch
7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Conducted by: The West Jersey Astronomical Soc.
Free: $5/car parking fee
Batsto Historic Village Wharton State Forest
Info: (609) 567-4559

Birding
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birder, join us at Double Trouble for a two and a half mile walk along a cedar forest, a reservoir, and former cranberry bogs. We’ll identify birds by song and sight from sparrows and warblers to egrets and ibises. 
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Rock Painting
Create your own unique nature-inspired painting on the surface of the earth itself... well, pieces of it at least! Take your souvenir home with you or hide it somewhere for someone else to find and brighten up their day. Be sure to wear clothes you wouldn’t mind getting paint on.
All materials provided, one rock per person.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Smokey Bear’s 75th Birthday Celebration
5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Free; donations are welcome
Bass River State Forest, Lake Absegami Beach Breezeway
(609) 296-1114
Note: Learn about campfire/wildfire safety and see a NJ Forest Fire Service brush truck up close. Sing happy birthday to Smokey and enjoy some birthday cake with him.

August 4

Observatory Tour and Solar Telescope Viewing
2 p.m. to 5p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

Family Nature Walk
1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Washington Crossing State Park
Nature Center
Note: Not ADA accessible. All ages. This is an informal naturalist–guided trail walk in the state park

Kayak Eco Tours on Cheesequake Creek
9 a.m.
Fee: $ 20.00 per person. Registration opens in April. Call for additional details
Cheesequake State Park
(732) 566-3208
Note: Call ahead for details and registration. Explore the salt marsh on a Naturalist guided kayak tour on Cheesequake Creek. The program includes all equipment and lesson. Participants must be 14 years of age and up and be in good physical condition

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

GROUNDS & GARDENS TOUR OF RINGWOOD MANOR
2pm to 4:00pm
No Fee for tour, $5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
These 2 hour walking tours will take participants around the main property at Ringwood Manor, discussing the historic objects, the planned gardens and landscape features, the out-buildings, and even the cemetery. Historic photos will be shown to the group to give participants an idea of what the site looked like at various times. It is advised that participants wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring bug spray & sun block if necessary. Steady Rain cancels.

The Return of the Forests
As time perpetually marches on, nature is reclaiming the land wherever it can. The name of the game is “ecological succession” and at Double Trouble, there are a variety of habitats in various stages of it. Join us for a two-mile walk as we observe this natural process in action.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Scavenger Hunt
Once a bustling cranberry company town, Double Trouble Village is now home to many kinds of trees, shrubs, flowering plants, birds, bugs and small mammals. Join us as we search around the village to identify some of the most common species.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

August 7

Wednesday Walkers
8:30 am to 9:30 am
Fee: None; no pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
Note: For adults
Start your day off right by stretching your legs, socializing, and soaking in the scenery on this 2.5-mile walk. Complimentary tea, coffee, and light refreshments served afterwards.

August 8

Yoga on the Mountain
6:30 to 7:45 PM
Fee: $5 donation recommended
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Come enjoy the view while relaxing your mind and body. All levels of experience are welcome. Please bring your own yoga mat and water. Walk-ins are welcome. However, registration is suggested so that we may contact you in the event a class is canceled. To register, please call 973-702-0488.
Sponsor: Friends of High Point State Park
Note: For more information go to www.friendsofhighpointstatepark.org

August 9

Family Nature Program: Monarchs and Milkweed Walk
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Fee: $5.00 Parking Fee for NJ residents. $10 Parking Fee for out-of-state visitors
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join us every Friday morning this summer for a family-friendly nature activity suitable for all ages. This week we’ll take a short walk (less than a mile) to look at milkweed plants and search for monarch butterflies, caterpillars, and eggs. We’ll also see what other critters are living on the milkweed – monarchs aren’t the only ones! This will be easy walking on mostly-paved surfaces. Meet by the gate at the end of the Cedar Swamp Picnic Area.

August 10

Musket Firing Demonstration
2 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee and $1 per person on weekends and Holiday from
May 25 to September 2
Washington Crossing State Park
Visitor Center Museum
(609) 737-0623
Note:  ADA accessible.  Join a Park Historian for an interpretive program on the weapons of the American Revolution and their use during the Battle of Trenton followed by a Musket Firing.

Night Hike
8:30 p.m.
Fee: $2.00 per person. Exact change please. Advanced registration required.
Washington Crossing State Park
Nature Center
(609) 737-0609
Note: Not ADA accessible Ages 9 to– adult.  Explore the park in the dark on this guided nocturnal walk and campfire. bring a flashlight. Advanced registration required. Note: Main park entrance will be closed.  Call for alternate access directions and registration

Family Nature Walk at Hacklebarney State Park
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Fee: $5.00 per family, includes 1 Nature Activity Journal, $3.00 for each additional book. Pre-registration Required
Hacklebarney State Park
(908) 638-8572
sprucerun@dep.nj.gov
Note: We will explore the forest and ravine in Hacklebarney State Park. Each family will receive one Nature Activity Journal. Dress to be outdoors, sturdy shoes required as it is a rocky hike. Spaces are limited, pre-registration required.

Observatory Tour and Telescope Viewing
8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

Mid-Summer Flea Market
8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Vendor spaces:  $30 pre-registration, $35 registration 2 days prior to event.
Allaire State Park
Historic Allaire Village
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
(732) 919-3500
Note: Hunt for hidden treasures amid furniture, books, art work, bottles, knick knacks & so much more! Rain date - August 11

PJ’s PROMOTIONS ANNUAL OUTDOOR CRAFT SHOW                                                                                                                                                 
10am – 5pm                                                                                                                                                                        
Fee: Admission - $4
Ringwood State Park, The Hermitage Museum
201-445-8311x102
Come and enjoy the more than 75 exhibitors that will set up on the tree-shaded lawn surrounding the historic Hermitage Museum.  Items included stained glass, hand-thrown pottery, apparel, garden and pet items, jewelry, vintage linens, and hand-made soaps and candles and much more.  ADA accessible

PUBLIC WALKING TOURS
12 Noon & 2pm
Fee: Adults $3, Children $1
Long Pond Ironworks State Park
973-657-1688
Sponsor: Friends of Long Pond Ironworks
Note: ADA accessible upon request.  Please call for more information.

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

The Pinelands Summer Zenith Nature Hike
Guided hike; bring water, bring snacks.
10:30 a.m. 2 - 4 miles
Fee: $5/car parking fee
Batsto Historic Village Wharton State Forest
Info: (609) 567-4559

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) Walk
9 am to 11 am
Fee: $15; pre-registration with payment required by August 9
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
Note: For adults
This slow-paced, 1-mile guided walk will cultivate sensory awareness, reduce stress, and facilitate a deeper connection with nature.

Damsels and Dragonflies
These four-winged insects are best recognized for their vibrant colors and mesmerizing flight mechanics. But their air-borne life is only a fraction of their story. Join us at Double Trouble as we watch these highly successful predators at the end of their double lives. Half-mile, shaded walk along a waterway.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Navigation by Map, Compass, and Sun
A map and compass are crucial tools to any adventurer looking to expand their navigational skills. We will become familiar with the four directions, and discover how to orient ourselves with the most important tool of all, the sun.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Pinelands Fishes by NJ Pinelands Commission
8 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Free; donations are welcome
Bass River State Forest, Lake Absegami Beach Breezeway
(609) 296-1114
Note: Bring flashlight and something to sit on, ADA accessible, severe weather cancels

Stream Stomp
10:00 to 11:00 AM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Come borrow a net, turn over some rocks, and discover the creatures that live in the stream that flows out of Sawmill Lake. Wear boots or shoes that can get wet, and be aware that it can be a bit slippery. Meet by the bridge below the Sawmill Lake dam. If there’s not a lot of water in the stream, we’ll explore the lake as well. Come on the early side if you'd also like to join us on the naturalist-guided walk around Sawmill Lake that begins at 10:30 AM.

Sawmill Lake Nature Walk
10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join a park naturalist on a fun and informal 1.5 mile walk around Sawmill Lake to learn about the plants and animals that call the lake home. Meet at the Sawmill Boat Launch. Suitable for adults and kids ages five and up. (Younger children are welcome if they're good walkers or can be carried.)

Night Insects: Things that Chirp, Flutter, and Flash
8:00 to 9:30 PM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Late summer nights are filled with the sounds of insects. Come learn about katydids, crickets, moths, and more! Bring a flashlight, and we’ll go on an after-dark bug hunt. Suitable for families with children ages five and up. Meet at the Interpretive Center.

August 11

Observatory Tour and Solar Telescope Viewing
2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

Kayak Eco Tours on Cheesequake Creek
9 a.m.
Fee: $ 20.00 per person. Registration opens in April. Call for additional details
Cheesequake State Park
(732) 566-3208
Note: Call ahead for details and registration. Explore the salt marsh on a Naturalist guided kayak tour on Cheesequake Creek. The program includes all equipment and lesson. Participants must be 14 years of age and up and be in good physical condition

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

GROUNDS & GARDENS TOUR OF RINGWOOD MANOR
2pm to 4:00pm
No Fee for tour, $5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
These 2 hour walking tours will take participants around the main property at Ringwood Manor, discussing the historic objects, the planned gardens and landscape features, the out-buildings, and even the cemetery. Historic photos will be shown to the group to give participants an idea of what the site looked like at various times. It is advised that participants wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring bug spray & sun block if necessary. Steady Rain cancels.

Where the Wildflowers Are
Discover the various native wildflowers that inhabit the sandy and acidic soils of the New Jersey Pine Barrens as we walk to some of the hotspots here at Double Trouble and discuss the unique history of flowering plants.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Family Friendly Nature Walks
Join us at Double Trouble for a 1.3 mile walk along a waterway and a pine-oak forest to an open reservoir with a man-made dam and spillway. On the way back, we’ll follow the edge of an atlantic white cedar swamp leading us back to the village.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Drop-in Nature Craft: Colorful Flowers
11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Fee: $10.00 Parking Fee for NJ residents. $20 Parking Fee for out-of-state visitors
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Stop by the Interpretive Center any time between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to learn how to make colorful construction paper flowers and pick up a scavenger hunt, then go out and explore flowers and the all the colors of nature in the park. Suitable for families with kids age three and up. There is no fee for the craft, but park weekend parking fees will be in effect.

August 12

Perseid Meteor Shower Watch with Volunteer Wayne Vogel
11 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. (Aug. 13th)
Free; donations are welcome
Bass River State Forest, Lake Absegami Beach
(609) 296-1114
Note: Bring blanket or reclining chair, telescopes and binoculars not necessary, cloudy sky cancels. Meteors will be dim due to near full moon. 

August 14

Wednesday Walkers
8:30 am to 9:30 am
Fee: None; no pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
Note: For adults
Start your day off right by stretching your legs, socializing, and soaking in the scenery on this 2.5-mile walk. Complimentary tea, coffee, and light refreshments served afterwards.

Sunset/Moonrise Hike on the Appalachian Trail
6:30 to 9:00 PM
Fee: $3 per person or $5 per family.
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
For adults and children ages 10 and up. Come hike a moderately strenuous 1-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail to an observation platform where we’ll watch the sun set in the west and the full moon rise in the eastern sky. This hike has some steep portions and a very rocky, uneven trail surface. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must! We’ll spend about a half hour at the platform, and then will return to our cars by moonlight via an easier route. Inclement weather may cancel this hike. Registration is required by 5:00 PM the day of the hike. Please email highpointprograms@dep.nj.gov to register or call 973-875-1471.

August 15

Early Bird Breakfast Walk
8:30 am to 11 am
Fee: None, breakfast additional (cash only); pre-registration required by August 14
Warbasse Junction Rd. parking area
(973) 786-6445
Sponsor: Kittatinny Valley State Park
Note: For adults
Have an appetite for the outdoors? Rise-n-shine with feathered friends and breakfast buddies! 2.5-mile (round-trip) walk along the Sussex Branch Trail to the Millside Café in Lafayette.

Blueberry Moon Night Hike
8 pm to 9:30 pm
Fee: $7; pre-registration with payment required by August 14
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
Note: For teens & adults
Celebrate the full moon of August with a unique after-dark 2.5-mile hike in the park, followed by moon pies in the visitor center. Headlamps/flashlights are required – limited quantity for sale.

August 16

Hike through History to Happy Hour
4 pm to 7 pm
Fee: $7 (beverages & tour additional); pre-registration with payment required by Aug. 15
Meet at the Branchville Municipal Building, 34 Wantage Ave.
 (973) 786-6445
Note: For ages 21 & over
Join the Branchville Historical Society for this 2-mile educational walk about town, then celebrate “National Rum Day” with happy hour snacks and beverages (optional) at Milk Street Distillery.

Family Nature Program: Summer from A to Z
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Fee: $5.00 Parking Fee for NJ residents. $10 Parking Fee for out-of-state visitors
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join us Friday mornings for family-friendly nature activities suitable for all ages. This week, we’ll take a walk on the Old Trail and search for things that begin with each letter of the alphabet. A is acorn. What starts with Z?  Bring a lunch and spend the day – have a picnic, play at the playgrounds, take a swim at the beach, or go for a walk!  Meet at the trailhead across the road from the large beach parking lot.

August 17

Snakes of New Jersey: Live from Round Valley
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee; pre-registration recommended
Round Valley Recreation Area
South Parking Lot
(908) 236 -6355
Note: Learn about the snakes of New Jersey.  You’ll have a chance to hold them and maybe, see them eat. ADA accessible

Musket Firing Demonstration
2 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee and $1 per person on weekends and Holiday from
May 25 to September 2
Washington Crossing State Park
Visitor Center Museum
(609) 737-0623
Note:  ADA accessible.  Join a Park Historian for an interpretive program on the weapons of the American Revolution and their use during the Battle of Trenton followed by a Musket Firing

Observatory Tour and Telescope Viewing
8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

CAR SHOW AND FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
10 am until 4 pm
None
Fort Mott State Park
(856) 935-3218
Sponsor:  Fort Mott Park Association
Note: Car show ends by 1pm with food trucks remaining until 4pm

WALT WHITMAN HOUSE HISTORIC SITE – LEGACY TOURS
10 AM to 11:00 AM
No fee
Walt Whitman House State Historic Site
(856) 964-5383
Meet at the Historic Site
NOTE: Not ADA Accessible
In celebration of Walt Whitman’s 200th birthday, the Walt Whitman House State Historic Site will be hosting special “Legacy” tours that focus on the work that Whitman created while living in Camden, as well as the history of Camden in relation to the historic site. The tours will revolve around his diary jottings in Specimen Days and his ruminations on the growth of America in Democratic Vistas. The compilation volume Specimen Days and Collect was assembled during Walt’s time in Camden and illustrate Whitman’s experiences and opinions of his life’s work. For reservations call: (856) 964-5383

Birding
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birder, join us at Double Trouble for a two and a half mile walk along a cedar forest, a reservoir, and former cranberry bogs. We’ll identify birds by song and sight from sparrows and warblers to egrets and ibises. 
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Rock Painting
Create your own unique nature-inspired painting on the surface of the earth itself... well, pieces of it at least! Take your souvenir home with you or hide it somewhere for someone else to find and brighten up their day. Be sure to wear clothes you wouldn’t mind getting paint on.
All materials provided, one rock per person.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Fort Mott State Park Car Show + Food Truck Event
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Fort Mott State Park

Fish Talk
10:00 to 10:30 AM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
The freshwater fish of Northern New Jersey have complex physical and social structures. Join a naturalist by the bridge at the Sawmill lake dam to learn more about New Jersey’s native fish species. What goes on beneath the water of lake Sawmill may surprise you!

Sawmill Lake Nature Walk
10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join a park naturalist on a fun and informal 1.5 mile walk around Sawmill Lake to learn about the plants and animals that call the lake home. Meet at the Sawmill Boat Launch. Suitable for adults and kids ages five and up. (Younger children are welcome if they're good walkers or can be carried.)

Sunset Walk
6:00 to 8:00 PM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join us for an evening loop of a portion of High Point State Park’s historic district. We'll walk up to the observation platform on the Appalachian Trail, around part of Sawmill Lake, and will watch the sunset in the west from the bluff overlooking Steenykill Lake. Along the way we'll explore plant and animal life and share stories of High Point's early days. Plan to wear comfortable shoes for walking. The walk will include some ups and downs, but will mostly be on paved or grassy surfaces and will cover about 1.5 miles. Suitable for adults and children ages 6 and up. Meet in the main beach parking lot opposite the beach (near the restroom). There is also parking available across the road if the lot is crowded.

August 18

23rd Annual Rolling Iron Antique Auto Show
8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Space: $18 pre-registration, $20 registration day of show.
Allaire State Park
Allaire Historic Village
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
(732) 919-3500
Note: Join us for one of the best antique car shows on the Shore with over 200 historic cars. Prizes are awarded for Best in Show, People’s Choice, each class of car, motorcycle & many more!
Rain date August 26

Observatory Tour and Solar Telescope Viewing
2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

GROUNDS & GARDENS TOUR OF RINGWOOD MANOR
2pm to 4:00pm
No Fee for tour, $5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
These 2 hour walking tours will take participants around the main property at Ringwood Manor, discussing the historic objects, the planned gardens and landscape features, the out-buildings, and even the cemetery. Historic photos will be shown to the group to give participants an idea of what the site looked like at various times. It is advised that participants wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring bug spray & sun block if necessary. Steady Rain cancels.

THE ROYAL NAVY DURING THE REGENCY PERIOD
2 pm
None
Fort Mott State Park
(856) 935-3218
Sponsor:  Fort Mott State Park and the Jane Austen Society of North America

The Return of the Forests
As time perpetually marches on, nature is reclaiming the land wherever it can. The name of the game is “ecological succession” and at Double Trouble, there are a variety of habitats in various stages of it. Join us for a two-mile walk as we observe this natural process in action.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Scavenger Hunt
Once a bustling cranberry company town, Double Trouble Village is now home to many kinds of trees, shrubs, flowering plants, birds, bugs and small mammals. Join us as we search around the village to identify some of the most common species.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Cedar Bog Hike
10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Fee: $10/car Parking Fee for NJ residents. $20/car Parking Fee for out-of-state visitors.
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join a park naturalist for a two-mile walk through High Point's Natural Area and unique Atlantic White Cedar bog. Suitable for adults and children ages six and up. Meet at the trailhead located at the yellow gate at the far end of the Cedar Swamp Picnic area.

Drop-in Nature Craft: Fish out of Water
11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Fee: $10.00 Parking Fee for NJ residents. $20 Parking Fee for out-of-state visitors
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Stop by the Interpretive Center any time between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM and create a fish-themed watercolor masterpiece. Suitable for all ages. There is no fee for the craft, but park weekend parking fees will be in effect.

August 21

Wednesday Walkers
8:30 am to 9:30 am
Fee: None; no pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
Note: For adults
Start your day off right by stretching your legs, socializing, and soaking in the scenery on this 2.5-mile walk. Complimentary tea, coffee, and light refreshments served afterwards.

August 23

Family Nature Program: Mountaintop Scavenger Hunt
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Fee: $5.00 Parking Fee for NJ residents. $10 Parking Fee for out-of-state visitors
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join us Friday mornings for family-friendly nature activities suitable for all ages. This week, come to the top of the mountain and explore the things that make the highest point in New Jersey special while completing a scavenger hunt.  Meet at the stairs to the Monument plaza. Bring a lunch and spend the day – have a picnic, play at the playgrounds, take a swim at the beach, or go for a walk! 

August 24

Musket Firing Demonstration
2 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee and $1 per person on weekends and Holiday from
May 25 to September 2
Washington Crossing State Park
Visitor Center Museum
(609) 737-0623
Note:  ADA accessible.  Join a Park Historian for an interpretive program on the weapons of the American Revolution and their use during the Battle of Trenton followed by a Musket Firing.

Summer Send Off Flea Market
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FREE Entry, $25 vendor fee
Leonardo State Marina
Main Lot
(732) 291-1333
Maggie Mitchell@dep.nj.gov
Note: Come find treasure at our summer send off flea market or clean out your items and sell.

Village Workshop
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fee: $35 per person, ($25.00 for a member)  Pre-registration is required. Can purchase online at www.allairevillage.org
Allaire State Park
Historic Allaire Village
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
(732) 919-3500
Note: Blacksmith, Tinsmith and Sewing

Astronomy Presentation and Telescope Viewing
Planetary Protection - Dr. Catharine Conley (NASA 2006-2017 Planetary Protection Officer and Astrobiologist)

8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

Trail Hike
1 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee
Cheesequake State Park
(732) 566-3208
Note: Take part in a guided Saturday hike starting at the Nature Center. We’ll explore the trails as we learn some interesting facts about the Park. Ages 6 and up

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

WALT WHITMAN HOUSE HISTORIC SITE – LEGACY TOURS
10 AM to 11:00 AM
No fee
Walt Whitman House State Historic Site
(856) 964-5383
Meet at the Historic Site
NOTE: Not ADA Accessible
In celebration of Walt Whitman’s 200th birthday, the Walt Whitman House State Historic Site will be hosting special “Legacy” tours that focus on the work that Whitman created while living in Camden, as well as the history of Camden in relation to the historic site. The tours will revolve around his diary jottings in Specimen Days and his ruminations on the growth of America in Democratic Vistas. The compilation volume Specimen Days and Collect was assembled during Walt’s time in Camden and illustrate Whitman’s experiences and opinions of his life’s work. For reservations call: (856) 964-5383

Hike-to-Brunch & Books
9 am to 12:30 pm
Fee: Free, brunch additional; pre-registration required by August 23
Meet at the Sussex Branch Trail crossing on Augusta Hill Rd.
(973) 786-6445
Sponsor: Kittatinny Valley State Park
Note: For teens & adults
Celebrate “National Waffle Day” with a 3.5-mile round-trip hike, one-hour brunch at Hatzi’s Place, and book stop at Broad Street Books.

Damsels and Dragonflies
These four-winged insects are best recognized for their vibrant colors and mesmerizing flight mechanics. But their air-borne life is only a fraction of their story. Join us at Double Trouble as we watch these highly successful predators at the end of their double lives. Half-mile, shaded walk along a waterway.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Navigation by Map, Compass, and Sun
A map and compass are crucial tools to any adventurer looking to expand their navigational skills. We will become familiar with the four directions, and discover how to orient ourselves with the most important tool of all, the sun.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Pond Netting
10:00 to 11:00 AM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Come borrow a net and discover the creatures living below the surface of Sawmill Lake! Suitable for all ages. Meet by the Sawmill Lake boat launch.  Come on the early side if you'd also like to join us on the naturalist-guided walk around Sawmill Lake that begins at 10:30.

Sawmill Lake Nature Walk
10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join a park naturalist on a fun and informal 1.5 mile walk around Sawmill Lake to learn about the plants and animals that call the lake home. Meet at the Sawmill Boat Launch. Suitable for adults and kids ages five and up. (Younger children are welcome if they're good walkers or can be carried.)

August 25

Observatory Tour and Solar Telescope Viewing
2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

GROUNDS & GARDENS TOUR OF RINGWOOD MANOR
2pm to 4:00pm
No Fee for tour, $5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
These 2 hour walking tours will take participants around the main property at Ringwood Manor, discussing the historic objects, the planned gardens and landscape features, the out-buildings, and even the cemetery. Historic photos will be shown to the group to give participants an idea of what the site looked like at various times. It is advised that participants wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring bug spray & sun block if necessary. Steady Rain cancels.

Where the Wildflowers Are
Discover the various native wildflowers that inhabit the sandy and acidic soils of the New Jersey Pine Barrens as we walk to some of the hotspots here at Double Trouble and discuss the unique history of flowering plants.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Family Friendly Nature Walks
Join us at Double Trouble for a 1.3 mile walk along a waterway and a pine-oak forest to an open reservoir with a man-made dam and spillway. On the way back, we’ll follow the edge of an atlantic white cedar swamp leading us back to the village.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

August 28

Wednesday Walkers
8:30 am to 9:30 am
Fee: None; no pre-registration required
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
Note: For adults
Start your day off right by stretching your legs, socializing, and soaking in the scenery on this 2.5-mile walk. Complimentary tea, coffee, and light refreshments served afterwards.

August 30

Family Nature Program: Insect Safari
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Fee: $5.00 Parking Fee for NJ residents. $10 Parking Fee for out-of-state visitors
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join us Friday mornings for family-friendly nature activities suitable for all ages. This week, we’ll cover the basics about bugs, and then will use large nets to see what critters we can find.  Bring a lunch and spend the day – have a picnic, play at the playgrounds, take a swim at the beach, or go for a walk!  Meet at the Interpretive Center. 

August 31

Observatory Tour and Telescope Viewing
8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
FREE
Voorhees State Park
NJAA Observatory
Sponsor: New Jersey Astronomical Society
(908) 638-8500
www.njaa.org

Musket Firing Demonstration
2 p.m.
Fee: Park entrance fee and $1 per person on weekends and Holiday from
May 25 to September 2
Washington Crossing State Park
Visitor Center Museum
(609) 737-0623
Note:  ADA accessible.  Join a Park Historian for an interpretive program on the weapons of the American Revolution and their use during the Battle of Trenton followed by a Musket Firing.

Back to School Bash
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fee: Pre-Registration Via Eventbrite $8.00 Per Person, Child Under 1: Free.
Day of Event: $12.00 Per Person, Child Under 1: Free.
Allaire State Park
Historic Allaire Village
Sponsor: Allaire Village Inc.
732-919-3500

A CHILD’S LIFE AT RINGWOOD MANOR TOUR
1:00pm
Fee for tour: $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, children 5 and under free
$5 per car in-state, $7 per car out-of-state parking fee to enter park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ringwood Manor, Ringwood State Park
(973) 962-2240
This fun & energetic 45-minute tour of Ringwood Manor focuses on the children of the Hewitt family, the activities, games, & pranks they played at the Manor, and what a child’s life would be like during the late 19th century. Scavenger hunts are provided on the tour and afterwards, kids are encouraged to try our reproduction 19th century toys! A great tour to introduce younger visitors to the history of the site!

Trail Mix @ Six
6 pm to 7 pm
Fee: None; pre-registration required by August 30
Kittatinny Valley State Park Visitor Center
(973) 786-6445
Note: For teens & adults
It’s “National Trail Mix Day!” Celebrate with an invigorating 3-mile hike to soak in the beauty of the park, socialize with friends, and enjoy some tasty G.O.R.P. (Good Ol’ Raisins & Peanuts).

Birding
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birder, join us at Double Trouble for a two and a half mile walk along a cedar forest, a reservoir, and former cranberry bogs. We’ll identify birds by song and sight from sparrows and warblers to egrets and ibises. 
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
8:00 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Rock Painting
Create your own unique nature-inspired painting on the surface of the earth itself... well, pieces of it at least! Take your souvenir home with you or hide it somewhere for someone else to find and brighten up their day. Be sure to wear clothes you wouldn’t mind getting paint on.
All materials provided, one rock per person.
Heavy rain or thunder will cancel.
10:30 am
Free
Double Trouble State Park
Historic Village Interpretive Center:  732-341-4098
Not ADA accessible

Fish Talk
10:00 to 10:30 AM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
The freshwater fish of Northern New Jersey have complex physical and social structures. Join a naturalist by the bridge at the Sawmill lake dam to learn more about New Jersey’s native fish species. What goes on beneath the water of lake Sawmill may surprise you!


Sawmill Lake Nature Walk
10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Join a park naturalist on a fun and informal 1.5 mile walk around Sawmill Lake to learn about the plants and animals that call the lake home. Meet at the Sawmill Boat Launch. Suitable for adults and kids ages five and up. (Younger children are welcome if they're good walkers or can be carried.)

Sunset Mountaintop Talk and Scavenger Hunt
7:00 to 8:00 PM
Fee: None
High Point State Park
973-875-1471
Explore the mountaintop on your own with a family-friendly scavenger hunt while the sun sets and/or join the park naturalist for an informal talk about the history and natural history of the mountain while enjoying the view. Suitable for all ages. Inclement weather may cancel this program. Meet by the steps to the Monument plaza.

 

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