The visitor center at Allaire State Park is open seasonally and for special events. For specific hours, call the park office at 732-938-2371.
At Allaire State Park, the entrance fee is $5 for New Jersey residents and $7 for non-residents. An annual State Park Pass is available for $50 for residents and $75 for non-residents, offering free entrance for a year. Senior citizens and people with disabilities can get free admission and parking with a special pass.
From Garden State Parkway: Exit 98 → NJ-34 South → Right on Allaire Rd/CR-524 → Left on Atlantic Ave → Follow signs to park entrance. From I-195: Exit 31B → NJ-34 South → Right on CR-524 → Left on Atlantic Ave.
At Allaire State Park, parking is available in various lots: near the Village, Pine Creek, and Nature Center off Atlantic Ave; along Hospital Rd, Herbertsville Rd, and Squankum Allenwood Rd for multiuse trails; and at the campgrounds for registered campers. Parking for the Disc Golf Course is free. RVs and cars can park in lots around the park, including near the campgrounds and river. Overnight parking is allowed for registered campers. Entrance fees apply between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and for special events.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Allaire State Park blends history, nature, and family-friendly recreation in one of New Jersey’s most charming outdoor destinations. Nestled along the Manasquan River, the park is home to Allaire Village, a preserved 19th-century ironmaking town complete with a blacksmith shop, church, and general store. Visitors can enjoy live demonstrations, events, and a ride on the Pine Creek Railroad. Beyond history, the park features 3,205 acres of hiking and biking trails, campsites, and diverse wildlife, making it a fantastic year-round escape for outdoor lovers and history buffs alike.
- Area (mi²)
- 5
- Established year
- 1947
Top 3 Facts about Allaire State Park
The park features podzolic soils, which are high in iron particle content and fairly acidic, a unique soil type in the coastal plain geographic region of New Jersey.
Home to the Pine Creek Railroad, one of the oldest operating narrow-gauge railways in the U.S., offering seasonal train rides.
Spanning over 3,200 acres, the park offers ample room for camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking along the Manasquan River.
Family programs
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check hours and special event calendars on the park website. Book camping early in peak season. Bring cash or card for entrance or train ride fees.
Pack Appropriately
Dress for the season; wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring sunscreen, water, and bug spray in warmer months.
Respect Wildlife
Follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on trails, and do not disturb local fauna. Pets allowed on leash in most areas.
Stay Informed
Check park website for weather advisories, seasonal closures, and historic village event schedules.
Seasons
Spring blooms fill trails with color; great time for birdwatching and nature walks. Mild temps and trail programs draw families and school groups.
Summer offers long days for hiking, fishing, and train rides. The historic village hosts reenactments and outdoor events. Campgrounds are in full swing.
Fall foliage turns the park vibrant red and gold. Ideal for hiking and photography. Village hosts seasonal events and harvest-themed celebrations.
Winter offers peaceful hikes and wildlife viewing. The historic village decorates for the holidays, creating a cozy, festive retreat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Allaire State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Allaire State Park is Farmingdale, New Jersey, though it is also near other towns like Wall Township and Howell. It is also relatively close to larger cities such as Asbury Park, Beachwood, and Belmar.
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The Canal Trail is a good option for kids, as it is an easy 2.7-mile loop with even terrain and packed earth or gravel, paralleling the historic canal through the forest. It is suitable for hiking and multiuse activities, making it accessible for families. This trail also passes by the Nature Center and Long Swamp Pond, offering educational and scenic points of interest.
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Dogs must always be on a leash no longer than six feet in length and under the control of the owner. They are not allowed in historical buildings or overnight facilities, but they can be on the trails and in certain pet-friendly campsites.
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There are parking fees from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, as well as during special events. The fees are $5 for New Jersey residents and $7 for non-residents. Parking for the Disc Golf Course is free, and campgrounds have on-site parking for registered campers.
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The top attraction is the Historic Village at Allaire, also known as the Howell Works, which was a prosperous industrial town founded by James P. Allaire in 1822. This village features restored 19th-century buildings, including a general store, blacksmith shop, and church, and offers living history reenactments and interpretive programs. It was a self-sustained community of 400 people until it declined and closed in 1848.