Island Beach State Park's nature center staff and volunteers offer programs about the park's unique ecology to students in grades K-12 and other interested groups in or near Ocean County. Staff are available year-round to tailor programs and nature walks to meet specific needs and interests. With prior approval, schools and nonprofit organizations may reserve an area for independent field study. Interpretive programs are limited to 30 participants per tour.

Highlights

• The Forked River Interpretive Center exhibits focus on local geologic processes, plant communities, animal life, cultural history and human disturbance issues at Island Beach State Park.



• The undeveloped natural barrier island habitats include the beach, dunes, coastal thickets and forests, freshwater ponds and tidal wetland communities.



• The Emily de Camp Herbarium is housed at the Forked River Interpretive Center. "Janet's Garden" exemplifies the plants in the herbarium. A butterfly garden is also present.



• Bird blinds are located near a tidal marsh and a fresh water pond, providing excellent opportunity for viewing diverse species of birds, including the largest nesting colony of osprey in the state.



• Horseback riding is offered in the off-season with prior reservation. Canoe and kayak tours of the Sedge Islands are offered on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday during the summer season.

Target Audience(s)
General public, organizations, educators, students of all ages

Additional Information
Interpretive Program
Island Beach State Park
PO Box 37
Seaside Park NJ 08752
Phone: 732-793-1698
Fax: 732-793-4859
Main Office: 732-793-0506
Friends Homepage: www.friendsofislandbeach.com/