Battery Lewis, located within the park, was part of the Harbor Defenses of New York and once housed massive 16-inch guns.
The park contains one of the largest remaining stands of coastal hardwood forest in the state.
Elevation in the park reaches 280 feet, providing unique vantage points over the Sandy Hook Bay.
The park was originally acquired by Monmouth County in 1974 to preserve the natural landscape from residential development.
The trail network includes over 14 miles of paths ranging from easy gravel walks to steep, technical single-track for mountain bikers.
Hartshorne Woods Park is a 794-acre site in the Navesink Highlands featuring some of the highest elevations along the Atlantic coast. The park is renowned for its extensive trail system, which provides challenging terrain for mountain biking. Historically, the area served as the site of the Battery Lewis coastal defense installation during World War II. Visitors can explore remnants of the former bunkers and fire-control towers scattered throughout the forest. The geography includes steep bluffs overlooking the Navesink and Shrewsbury Rivers. The park encompasses three distinct areas: the Rocky Point, Laurel Ridge, and Claypit Creek sections. Hikers often traverse the Grand Tour trail, which connects the primary park sections.
The observation area at Battery Lewis offers wide-angle views of the Navesink River and the Highlands skyline.
Mountain bikers should prioritize the Rocky Point section for the most technical climbs and descents.
Check the official Monmouth County Park System website for trail closures after heavy rainfall.
Bring binoculars for viewing migrating raptors, particularly during the autumn months.
Do not attempt the steepest sections of the mountain bike trails if you are a beginner, as the terrain is rugged and technical.
Park grounds are generally open from dawn to dusk daily; specific trails may close temporarily for maintenance or hazardous weather conditions.
Stay strictly on marked trails to protect native flora and prevent erosion; leashed pets are permitted.
