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Allaire State Park |
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Allaire State Park is probably best known for its historic 19th-century
ironmaking town, Allaire Village, and its antique steam trains on the Pine Creek
Railroad. The Manasquan River, which winds through the park, attracts canoeists
and fishermen. The river’s floodplain provides habitat for over 200 species of
wildflowers, trees and plants as well as habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders enjoy the many trails in the park.
Historic Allaire Village
The historic village was known as the Howell Works in the early 19th century. At
that time it was a thriving industrial community which produced pig and cast
iron. The buildings which remain today include a general store, blacksmith shop,
carpenter’s shop, manager’s house, foreman’s house and a church. One of the
workers' row house buildings is now the Visitor Center and Museum.
Allaire Village Inc., a nonprofit corporation, sponsors more than 40 programs
and events annually, including living history events, antique shows, arts and
craft shows, and flea markets. For more information, write or call Allaire
Village, Inc. at (732) 919-3500.
Pine Creek Railroad
Established in 1953, the Pine Creek Railroad is an example of rail travel at the
height of the steam era in the United States. The live-steam and diesel,
narrow-gauge trains are operated by the NJ Museum of Transportation. For more
information, call (732) 938-5524.
Visitor Center and Museum
Exhibits on the 19th-century bog iron industry, the Howell Works (original name
for Allaire Village), and its owner, James P. Allaire provide an introduction to
Allaire Village. Special programs are offered throughout the year. 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 features and creatures of
the area. Nature walks are conducted daily during the summer season and special
programs for groups can be arranged by appointment. Open daily from Memorial Day
through Labor Day, and Wednesday through Sunday the rest of the year.
Trails
A network of trails winds through the park providing opportunities for hikers,
mountain bikers and horseback riders. The yellow trail at .5 miles, the red
trail at 1.5 miles and the green trail at 4.5 miles are easy hiking trails for
pedestrians only. The orange trail, which is 16.5 miles long, is a moderate
multi-use trail.
Camping
For forms and information on a campsite booking visit our: reservations page
These fees are in effect as of September 6, 2005
Campsites: 45 tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Flush
toilets and shower facilities are within walking distance. Trailer sanitary
station open April 15 through October 31. Campsites open all year. $20 per
night.
Yurts: Four yurts. Circular tents built on a wood frame, featuring wood floors,
a deck and plexiglas skylight. Each yurt has a wooden door, window screens and
flaps, and two double-deck bunks, which sleep up to four people. Accessible to
persons with disabilities. $30 per night.
Shelters: Six shelters. Cabin-like structures with wood stove for heat and two
double-deck bunks, which sleep up to four people. Each site includes a fire ring
and picnic table. Accessible to persons with disabilities. $40 per night.
Group campsites: Six group sites with fire rings, picnic tables and composting
toilets; total capacity: 250. Open all year. 2 sites accomodate 25 campers at
$25 per night. 4 sites accomodate 50 campers at $50 per night. |
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