Holmdel Park — Attraction in Holmdel Township

One of the most generous green spaces for a local town/county park I've seen outside of any major city. During the winter, when conditions permit, there is a huge sledding hill (which is groomed by the park staff) and even ice skating. During warmer seasons, there is fishing and beautiful hiking trails (some moderately demanding, too). The centerpiece is an ascending hill with a plateau at the top, all gorgeously wooded. There are two large children's play areas, ample spaces for picnicking and lots of areas for recreation. There are at least 4 tennis courts at the top. During season, there are significant cross country events hosted at Holmdel Park, and these seem to bring in hundreds of runners from many participating middle and high schools from throughout the state. Not to be overlooked, there is a WORKING FARM, with cattle and livestock, and the Monmouth Parks Department has full-time staff working it who are always DRESSED IN COSTUME from the 1700s (there is no charge to enter). During working days, kids can milk a cow, pet a pig, and much more... Actually, Holmdel Park is a pretty phenomenal resource! Highly recommended, on either nice warm days or immediately after a snow fall (just get there early for parking, or you'll be...

I love this park. I am here throughout the year, spring, summer, winter, and fall. Each season the park is different. In early spring the cherry blossoms are in bloom. In spring everything is green, there are new flowers, and the farm has baby animals. Walking the paths in the summer brings such peace. The forest is beautiful. Fall brings such an array of beautiful colors. I love walking snowy paths in the winter. My daughter loves sledding down the hill and we both love sitting by the roaring fire in the shelter building when we get too cold. Sometimes the farm offers sleigh rides in the snow in the winter and wagon rides other times of the year. In the farm is open all year round. The arboretum is a beautiful place to just relax with nature. And I love taking a walk around the beautiful lake. There are two playgrounds, The first is by the middle parking lot and the second is in the upper parking lot. Also by the upper parking lot is tennis courts. I know I am missing some things because there is just so much going on at this park. Grab a map when you get there or download a map onto your phone of the park so you can...

I'd give this park 5 stars since it's pretty but I'll give one for the aggressive and rude park Ranger. (From other reviews this park has this reputation.) My slow moving 13 year old dog who was on her leash yesterday loves to roll in the grass. It sparked this Ranger to drive his truck on the grassy lawn to confront me. He was rude and aggressive and said my dog needs to be under control and on the leash at all times. I said nicely my dog is old and very much in control and on her leash. He then jumps out of his truck and threatens to take my information and give me a summons. I'm perplexed at this point and said whoa wait... I understand hoping he'd back off. He actually then said I'll just continue with the same behavior and told me to go home??? What, really? How insulting and rude to say the least. Here I thought park Rangers are supposed to be kind and helpful. I did report him but turns out guys this is $1000 summons. Mucho be careful of letting your dog roll on the ground around...