Local parks can be a great setting for weddings, family reunions and even birthday parties.
A park can be an ideal location to host any type of party, including birthday parties, family reunions and weddings. New Jersey has more than 50 state parks spread throughout its 21 counties, and many local and county parks as well. With so many parks in the state, it shouldn't be hard to find a park that meets all of your needs for your next party. Does this Spark an idea?
Cape May County Park Central
In the southernmost portion of New Jersey, Cape May County is the home of Cape May County Park Central. This park has sheltered picnic grounds that hold up to 100 people. Prices vary depending on the number of guests in your party. In addition to areas of natural forest, this park also has a disc-golf course, children's playground and a zoo on the premises. If you're planning a wedding, the Cape May County Park Central offers a gazebo at the end of a pier that overlooks a beautiful lake with a water fountain. There is an additional charge for use of the gazebo. Reservations are required for both the gazebo and the picnic grounds.
Branch Brook Park
Branch Brook Park is in Essex County, New Jersey, and spans 350 acres. This park has more than 2,000 cherry trees that bloom in April, making them a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos or a breathtaking place to host a party. In addition to the beauty of the blossoming cherry trees, this park also has a lake, several streams, meadows and pedestrian bridges. Although the park does not have its own picnic grounds or pavilion, you can pitch party tents on the grounds for parties and weddings. Permits may be required.
Schooley's Mountain County Park
With just under 800 acres of park land and forest, the Schooley's Mountain County Park is in Morris County, New Jersey. In addition to having both indoor and outdoor facilities for hosting a party, this park has an 8-acre lake for fishing, recreation fields and walking trails. If the indoor lodge or outdoor picnic grounds don't suit your needs, tent rental and setup on park grounds is permitted with advance approval and reservations. Permits may also be required for tents, alcohol, catering and music.
Colonial Park
Somerset County New Jersey is home to Colonial Park, a 685-acre park that features six separate gardens. This park has two picnic facilities for your event. The Knob Hill picnic area can hold groups up to 150 people, and the Pine Grove picnic area can accommodate a larger crowd of up to 250 people. In addition to the gardens, this park has three fishing ponds, tennis courts, softball fields, a nature trail, a unique 18-hole putting course and paddleboat rentals.
Cheesequake State Park
Cheesequake State Park is in Middlesex County, New Jersey. This park provides two picnic areas, both with playing fields and a children's playground. The Farny Point sheltered picnic area can accommodate up to 150 guests. The Spring Hill picnic area holds up to 100 guests. Cheesequake State Park offers a variety of activities for your party, including boating, swimming, fishing and crabbing. In addition, there are four trails for hiking and walking, and one trail for hiking and mountain biking. Cheesequake Park also has an on-site campground for both tents and trailers.
Tags: County Park, Cape County, County Jersey, picnic area, picnic grounds