Cattus Island Park includes miles of walking trails, picnic areas with grills, a playground, a butterfly garden, and an environmental center. The environmental center has hands-on displays for kids and lots of stuffed local critters, as well as the restrooms. Most of the park is handicap accessible - all the trails are not, but the marsh boardwalk and overlooks are. Check the brochure (in the links below) for a full listing of the accessible areas.

The park is free!

It’s not uncommon to see fish in the salt marshes, wading birds, squirrels, and deer. Various organizations have built osprey nests, so look in the marsh on top of the poles.

One of the trails ends at a small sandy beach on Silver Bay. People go seining here and if your kids (or dog) tend to like wading, you may want to bring a towel.

The park hosts programs throughout the year, so for a quieter visit, check their calendar before visiting.

Pack a picnic. Go to Cattus Island for supper, then walk the trails. Be on the lookout for birds and deer. Younger kids can also enjoy the playground

Cost: gas to get there.

Dogs are not allowed in the environmental center, but leashed pups are allowed elsewhere. There is a doggie ‘clean-up’ bag station. Sometimes it’s empty, so bring a bag and ALWAYS clean up after your dog.

An outside water fountain is located west of the environmental center. It's not a dog fountain, but you can fill a bowl or water bottle here.

After leaving the park, check the dog (and people too) for ticks. Being a forested area, more than deer and osprey inhabit Cattus Island.

Hours: The park closes at dusk; the environmental center is open 8am - 4:30pm.

Admission: free

Handicap accessible: yes

Dog-friendly: yes, except for the environmental center

Directions: Garden State Parkway to Exit 82 - Route 37 EAST/Seaside Heights. Just past the Wawa on the left, take the jughandle to Fischer Blvd. Approx. 3 miles, just past the Foodtown, turn right at the light - Cattus Island Blvd. The park entrance will be on your left.

Address:1170 Cattus Island Blvd, Toms River, NJ 08753

Phone 732-270-6960 or 1-877-OC PARKS.