Unwind with Nature: Free Weekend Programs at Ocean County Parks

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Unwind with Nature: Free Weekend Programs at Ocean County Parks

cattus island park in toms river

FREE Events (Weather Permitting)

There are so many FREE programs and Things to do in Ocean County. Visit the Ocean County Parks and learn about nature and your surroundings. You will see some live reptiles up close and personal. Nature Walks, Arts and Crafts, Learn About Animals and Nature. Such fun experiences for the entire family.

CATTUS ISLAND COUNTY PARK – Toms River
+++Scales and Tales+++
Join a park naturalist as they dispel the myths and fears of native reptiles. You will see some of our live snakes and turtles up close and personal. Learn what makes these native species so special, and why they are such an important part of the ecosystem. This program is sure to inspire all young nature lovers. No registration required.

LOCATION: Cooper Environmental Center, Cattus Island County Park, Toms River
DATE: Saturdays and Sundays (excluding December 9th)
TIME: 1:30 -2:00 pm AGE: All

Cattus Island Nature Walks
Be a part of a 40-year Ocean County tradition! Join a park naturalist and follow in the footsteps of such legendary local environmentalists as A. Morton and Betty Cooper, Dorothy Hale and Pete McLain. Be prepared to discover the fascinating and diverse wonders of the natural world.
*No registration required.

LOCATION: Cooper Environmental Center, Cattus Island County Park, Toms River
DATE: Saturdays and Sundays (excluding December 9)
TIME: 2:00 – 3:00pm AGE: All
October 7 & 8 Carnivorous Plants
October 14 & 15 Flora & Fauna of the Pines
October 21 & 22 Cattus Island History
October 28 & 29 Feeder Birds

JAKES BRANCH COUNTY PARK - BEACHWOOD
The following programs are Free, No Registration Required
+++Live Animal Talks+++
Come in and meet the animals of Jakes Branch County Park. Visitors will get an up-close look at the parks inhabitants and learn about each species. Talks will last approximately 20 minutes

LOCATION: Nature Center, Jakes Branch County Park, Beachwood
DATE: Sundays, 10/8 – 12/17
TIME: 1:30 pm AGE: All

Discovery Nature Walks
Join a park naturalist on these brief but informative nature walks through Jakes Branch Park. Weather permitting - walks will not exceed 30 minutes
LOCATION: Nature Center, Jakes Branch County Park, Beachwood
DATE: Sundays, 10/8 – 12/17
TIME: 2:00 pm AGE: All

Drop In and Discover

What will you discover about nature when you drop by and join us for a FREE activity and craft? No registration required
LOCATION: Nature Center, Jakes Branch County Park, Beachwood
DATE: Saturdays, beginning 10/7 – 12/16 (No program 11/4)
TIME: 1:30 – 3:00 pm, ongoing AGE: 3 - 5 years

CEDAR BRIDGE TAVERN
The following programs are Free, No Registration Required
+++Historical Nature Walks+++
Step back in time and walk the Cedar Bridge grounds with parks staff. Each stop along the way feature different historical or environmental topics. Tours will begin and end at the Cedar Bridge Tavern. Walking shoes required!
LOCATION: Cedar Bridge Tavern, Cedar Bridge County Park, Barnegat, NJ 08005
DATE: Saturdays: 10/7, 11/11, 12/9
TIME: 1:30 - 2:00 pm AGE: All

*CLOVERDALE FARM COUNTY PARK
Monthly Bird Walks
Learn how Cloverdale Farm County Park’s bird population changes month by month. This informative two-hour bird walk is perfect for all levels of birders. Please be prepared to walk a mile, dress for the weather, wear comfortable sneakers or boots and bring a pair of binoculars.

LOCATION: Program Room, Cloverdale Farm County Park, Barnegat
DATES: Saturdays 10/21, 11/4, 12/9
TIME: 9:00 am-11:00 am
AGE: 9 years – Adult See less

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