Menu Close

Local Guide: Hiking and Biking

Did you know that we have many hiking and biking destinations all within less than an hour drive of Colonial RV? Whether you are picking up your new RV, stopping in for service, or are local to the area, these trails are a great way to get out and enjoy nature. Below are some of our favorite destinations in our area.

1. Allaire State Park

Photo: North Atlantic Dirt

First on our list is Allaire State Park, located just 15 minutes from our dealership in Wall Township, NJ. Allaire State Park has something for everyone, including  hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The main park is home to the early 19th century Historic Allaire village, visitors can experience history and tour the various buildings including a general store, blacksmith shop, carpenter’s shop, and more.

The “South Side” area of the park has approximately 800 acres of varying terrain and miles of trails, there are four primary marked trails and many unmarked trails. Allaire is one of the most popular mountain biking destinations in Ocean County.

Allaire State Park also has tent and RV sites if you want to stay overnight. Campsites include fire rings, picnic tables as well as flush toilets and shower facilities within walking distance.

More info Here: Allaire State Park

2. Manasquan Reservoir

Only a few miles down the road from Allaire State Park is the Manasquan Reservoir in Howell Township. The reservoir has a 5.1 mile trail around the perimeter with great views of the water and nature. The trail is made up of gravel and is wide enough to accommodate many users, perfect for biking, hiking, or running.

The reservoir also has a environmental center, boat launch, fishing, and kayak rentals. While there is no overnight RV parking, there is a large parking lot that can accommodate your RV during park hours.

More info Here: Manasquan Reservoir

3. Hartshorne Woods

Hartshorne Woods Park is a 736-acre county park located in Highlands, NJ. The park property was a former WWII military installation designed to defend New York Harbor and surrounding areas, evidence can still be seen throughout the park. The Highlands is one of the highest elevations along the Atlantic Coast with amazing views Navesink River and Atlantic Ocean.

Hartshorne Woods has over 14 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. The trails feature many hills with a clay and rocky terrain. There is also a shorter 1.3 mile paved loop with scenic views. There are two lots, but parking can be limited. Camping is available nearby at Gateway National Recreation Area.

More info Here: Hartshorne Woods Park

4. Jakes Branch Park

If you are looking to experience the New Jersey Pine Barrens, Jakes Branch is a great option. Located about 20 minutes south of our dealership, Jakes Branch is considered “The Gateway to the Pines”.

Jakes Branch has over 8 miles of trails, great for hiking or biking. The nature trails consist of a sandy surface with very little elevation. Jakes Branch also has a Nature Center with five-story Observation Deck that offers great views of the pines. While there is no camping at this park they do have a large parking lot to accommodate your RV during park hours.

More info Here: Jakes Branch Park

5. Clayton Park

Clayton park is located 35 minutes west of Colonial RV in Imlaystown, NJ. This is a small park in a rural area that is popular among hikers and equestrians.

The trails at Clayton Park are beginner friendly and offers a great place for an afternoon hike. The trail system consists of many small loops that can be linked together to make a longer 4.4 mile loop. The trails are mostly clay with some moderate elevation. Overnight parking is not available, but a large dirt parking lot can accommodate an RV.

More info Here: Clayton Park

We hope this list can help you exlore new places and enjoy nature. You can also visit or Local Directory page to view more local area campgrounds, food, attractions, and more.