It was the first park acquired by the Monmouth County Park System in 1961.
The park contains a notable population of mountain laurel, which blooms in late spring.
It is home to a dedicated 18-hole disc golf course that winds through varied terrain.
The site features a significant amount of glacial drift, evidence of the area's geological history.
Parts of the trail system connect directly to the Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway.
Shark River Park is the first park established within the Monmouth County Park System. The park encompasses over 950 acres of land bisected by the Shark River. It features a diverse landscape of wetlands, rolling hills, and mature forests. Visitors have access to over 10 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. A dedicated fishing area allows for freshwater angling along the river banks. The park includes several picnic areas equipped with grills and tables. Specialized facilities include a disc golf course and an outdoor fitness circuit. It serves as a natural corridor for local wildlife, including various bird species and small mammals. The park grounds provide direct access to the Shark River for kayaking and canoeing.
The wooden bridge spanning the Shark River during the autumn leaf-peeping season.
Bring insect repellent, as the riverside and wooded trails attract ticks and mosquitoes in warmer months.
Wear waterproof hiking boots, as trails can remain muddy for several days after rainfall.
Download the trail map ahead of time, as cellular reception is inconsistent in the dense forest sections.
Attempting to swim in the river, which is not designated for recreational water contact.
Leash dogs at all times, carry out all trash, and stay on marked trails to protect local vegetation.
