4265 Atlantic Ave
Wall Township, NJ 07727
Where is Allaire State Park
Allaire State Park is a park located just 60 miles from New York City inside Howell and Wall Township in Monmouth County, New Jersey. It is operated and maintained by the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry and is part of the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route. Only 20 minutes from the Jersey shore, this historical and family-friendly park can be reached from exit 98 off the Garden State Parkway or exit 31B off Interstate 195.
How Big Is Allaire State Park
This Monmouth County tradition is a local gem, located in Farmingdale, New Jersey. Allaire US State Park offers over 3,000 acres of nature and history for the whole family to enjoy. In 2019 this beloved park got bigger through a strategic effort by Monmouth Conservation Foundation and the State of New Jersey DEP Green Acres Program. They purchased the last remaining large parcel of land connected to Allaire State Park, expanding the park by nearly 190 acres. More fun for everyone!
Allaire State Park Weather
The park is open daily, year-round, while the Village's hours vary by season. With New Jersey’s warm, humid summers and mild winters, both are a perfect place to be outdoors as long as you come prepared. The river's floodplain provides habitat for more than 200 species of wildflowers, plants, moss and trees as well as habitat for birds and other wildlife that can be viewed each summer. Unique plants and animals that seek home in the pinelands landscape such as hooded warbler, great blue heron, barred owl, wood turtle, cooper’s hawk and black crowned night heron all call this land home. No matter the season or weather, visitors are welcome and can view abundant wildlife just miles from the Jersey Shore.
When did Allaire become a State Park
In the early 19th century, Howell Works was a thriving industrial community which produced pig and cast iron. In 1822, it was purchased by philanthropist James P. Allaire, who endeavored to turn it into a self-contained community. When the business and village collapsed, the lease was passed to the state of New Jersey. Now it is run by a nonprofit called Allaire Village Inc.
Things to Do at Allaire State Park
Leave the shore behind and come explore the acres of greenspace and forest that Allaire State Park has to offer. This family-focused park and village is a
Jersey tradition you won’t want to miss. Listed below our State Park Visitors Guide highlights fun activities for you to do.
Historic Allaire Village
This restored village features a working bakery, carriage house, chapel, carpenter shop and blacksmith shop. Tours and re-enactments occur often by costumed staff leading historic games, chore and crafts. Stop by the general store where you will find candy, books, vintage-style toys and handmade souvenirs.
Pine Creek Railroad
This antique steam train from 1953 loops around the park and is the oldest continuously operated steam preservation railroad in the country. It operates daily in the summer, weekends in the spring and fall and for special holiday and birthday rides. Cost is approximately $4 per person.
Visitor center/museum
Enjoy exhibits of the 19th-century iron industry, the Howell Works (original name for Allaire Village), and its owner, James P. Allaire, as they provide an introduction to Allaire Village. The center is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and Wednesday through Sunday the rest of the year.
Nature Interpretive Center
The center features displays related to the natural flora and fauna of the area. Nature walks through the park's undisturbed natural areas are conducted daily each summer. The center is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and Wednesday through Sunday the rest of the year.
Camping
Campsites: 45 tent and trailer sites open year-round. $20 per night.
Yurts: Four yurts available year-round. $30 per night.
Shelters: Six shelters open February 1-December 1. $48 per night.
Group campsites: Six group sites with fire rings, picnic tables and toilets; total capacity: 250. Open year-round. $100 per night.
Canoeing
Bring your own canoe or kayak and float until your heart is content. The Manasquan River flows eastward through the park, offering a scenic and tranquil setting for all floaters and avid paddlers alike. Canoe rentals are available nearby.
Trails
The park offers 20 miles of color-coded trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. For pedestrians only, the yellow trail tracks at .5 miles, the red trail at 1.5 miles and the green trail at 4.5 miles. The orange trail, which is 16.5 miles long, is a moderate multi-use trail.
Picnicking
Picnic facilities are provided for group and family outings. They are each located in attractive wooded settings adjacent to the village. Charcoal grills, tables and sanitary facilities are provided, so bring your picnic basket, eat a bite and enjoy.
Fishing
The Manasquan River is an excellent fly-fishing area for freshwater anglers. This river is stocked annually with trout. Come and catch your limit! The views and the bounty are equally spectacular. Remember that a New Jersey fishing license is required.
When to go to Allaire State Park
Allaire State Park is open daily from 8am-6pm for your enjoyment. The village hours vary by season. Visit for free most of the year except from Memorial Day to Labor Day. During this high-volume season there is a $5 resident; $7 non-resident fee per visitor. Events take place almost every weekend in the spring including an Easter Egg Hunt, Spring Craft Market, Spirit of the Jerseys History Fair, and Civil War Encampment. Summer events include the Ducky Derby and Summer Flea Market. When the crisp fall air arrives, visit the Fall Apple Festival; the Witches, Wizards, and Wands Festival; and Haunted Allaire. In the winter, swing by for the Stocking Stuffer Sale, Christmas Lantern Tours, and Christmas at Allaire.
Must-Haves to Bring to Allaire State Park
No matter the season, come prepared for a lively day at the park, village and railroad at Allaire. List of Parks advises not to forget to carry in the following items.
Trash bags
Through the parks Carry-In/Carry-Out Program you can help keep the parks clean by carrying out the trash you carry in. You will not find many trash cans throughout the park. Visitors must bring a biodegradable bag with them to take trash home for disposal.
Food/Snacks/Water
Always pack a protein bar or your favorite snack and water for hiking the trails or floating the river. Picnicking spots are available and bringing your own food into the park is encouraged. There is also a general store and other snack food options throughout Allaire Village.
Outdoor Gear
Depending upon your plans for the day, you will need to consider bringing the correct outdoor gear to assure your stay a great one. Hiking shoes, jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen and boating/fishing gear are all necessities you don’t want to forget.
Binoculars/Camera
From wildlife to wildflowers, 19th-century characters to train adventures, Allaire has plenty of sites to see. Binoculars are a fun way to spot those unexpected views. Make sure to use your camera to capture all the unforgettable, family moments.
Extra Cash
Make sure to bring some extra spending money to enjoy the Allaire Village and Pine Creek Railroad. The train ride costs $4 per person and there are many snacks and souvenirs to be savored at the village shops. Cash and credit cards are accepted.
Where to stay near Allaire State Park
There are plenty of overnight accommodation options located just minutes from Allaire State Park. Two recommendations include the Morning Dove Inn in Belmar and the Manchester inn Bed and Breakfast in Ocean Grove. You can make the most of your holiday by taking in the sites of the park as well as the ocean views and cool breezes of the Jersey Shore. Check out local hotels, Airbnb and VRBO for more options.
Food nearby Eldorado Canyon State Park
The shady grounds of Allaire are a perfect spot for a picnic. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park. A food truck with treats like hotdogs and pretzels is located near the parking lot. Don't forget to check out the village bakery for yummy dessert. There are also great restaurants in Farmingdale such as Lentil Tree, Harvest Restaurant and Lubrano’s Trattoria.
Airports near Allaire State Park
There’s no need to go far to find flights for Allaire State Park. John F. Kennedy International Airport is 80 miles away and the best option for entering New Jersey for a historical, outdoor holiday. Give yourself enough time to maneuver the city traffic! From the airport, take Belt Parkway to Garden State Parkway. Follow Allenwood Rd. and Atlantic Ave. to your destination.