Manasquan Reservoir Visitor Center — Attraction in Howell Township

I have been here twice: once just to hike and explore the area, and the second, mostly just to be out on the water (tour boat & kayaking). This is such a beautiful and relaxing place to enjoy and it offers a lot of different things for people of all ages (and pets) to do. Besides hiking trails, tour boats and kayaking, there are also biking areas, fishing, other boating / water activities, a playground for children and more!

There are also bathrooms (and porta potties), vending machines and a cafeteria. Everything (including the bathrooms and trails) seem to be well maintained and kept clean, too.

The trails here are fairly easy from what I've seen, and if you're lucky, you might spot some beautiful wildlife along the way (I've seen deer, swans, eagles, and more!). I definitely plan on coming back to hike and kayak again, but also to explore what else this place...

I rented a kayak here on Friday, 9/5/25, after having a great time kayaking the previous weekend at Lake Hopatcong. Parking was easy — I arrived a little after noon and found plenty of spots right by the visitors center where rentals are handled.

The rental process was quick and simple: $17 for the hour plus a $10 cash deposit. You fill out a short form, get a paddle and life vest, then pick a kayak from the rack and bring it to the water yourself. From there, you’re free to enjoy the calm, cool water at your own pace.

If you bring your own kayak, there’s a $7 ramp fee, or you can buy a $50 season pass at the start of the season.

Overall, I really enjoyed the experience. The rental price is reasonable, and it’s so convenient that it makes more sense than dealing with the cost and hassle of owning and transporting my own...

HOWELL: The Manasquan Reservoir is one of the most popular parks in the area, and a fantastic spot to take your leashed dog for a scenic walk along over 5 miles of trails that loop around the water. (Note: dogs are not allowed in the water.) The trail is shared with walkers, runners, cyclists, and even horseback riders, so be sure to stay aware of your surroundings for everyone’s safety. Most of the path is flat with gentle inclines, winding through wooded areas with a mix of dirt and rocky terrain. You will find several clearings with beautiful views of the reservoir, and even a few small “beachfront” spots.

🐾 Pro tip: Waste bags are available at the start of the trail, at points near the main...