Discover the Wonders of Forked River Interpretive Center
Explore the beauty of nature at Forked River Interpretive Center, a unique destination for education and adventure in Island Beach State Park.
Nestled within the picturesque Island Beach State Park, the Forked River Interpretive Center offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and educational experiences. Visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region, making it a perfect destination for families and nature lovers alike. With interactive exhibits and guided tours, this center invites you to immerse yourself in the wonders of New Jersey's coastal ecosystems.
A brief summary to Forked River Interpretive Center
- Island Beach State Park, Central Avenue, Lanoka Harbor, Lanoka Harbor, NJ, 08734, US
- +1732-793-1315
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and have a more personal experience.
- Check the center's schedule for guided tours or special events before your visit.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary, especially near the coast.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities may be limited in this natural setting.
- Don’t forget your binoculars for birdwatching along the trails.
Getting There
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Car
From any point within Island Beach State Park, head northwest towards Central Avenue. Depending on your starting location, follow the park roads to exit the park onto Central Avenue. Once on Central Avenue, continue driving until you reach the intersection with Route 9. Turn left onto Route 9 South. After approximately 2 miles, take the exit for Lacey Road. Continue on Lacey Road until you see signs for the Forked River Interpretive Center. Follow the signs to the center, which will be located at Island Beach State Park, Central Avenue, Lanoka Harbor, NJ 08734. Note that there is usually a parking fee for the park, so be prepared to pay this upon entry.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you will first need to take a bus from a nearby town or city to reach the closest bus stop to Island Beach State Park. The NJ Transit bus service (Route 137) operates from New Jersey towns like Toms River. Once you arrive at the bus stop closest to the park, you will need to either walk or take a rideshare service (such as Uber or Lyft) to reach the Forked River Interpretive Center. The center is about a 10-15 minute ride from the nearest bus stop inside the park. Make sure to check the NJ Transit schedule for the latest bus timings and plan accordingly.
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