Situated on 535 acres of green space, Dorbrook Recreation Area has a playground, spray park, paths, picnic areas, and more.

What can’t you do at Dorbrook? This well-maintained park has it all — including a recently renovated splash pad that’s open during the summer months to help keep park visitors cool. On the bright blue grounds, you’ll find domes of cascading water, raining leaves (like you’re in the tropics!), and play troughs of varying heights. Also new is the park’s pumping system for improved water filtration. The sprayground is large, but fenced in and reservations are currently required to enter (for parents/adults too). However, if it’s storming out, the spray area will close. 

Dorbrook Recreation Area is also home to an amazing playground known as Challenger Place, which has been specially crafted for children of all abilities to enjoy. You’ll find elevated surfaces accessible to kids in wheelchairs as well as Braille signs. But what’s especially unique and lovely about Challenger Place is that it encourages kids of various abilities to connect and play together. Children who are blind or visually impaired can also visit the playground’s latest addition: The Lion's Sensory Den, which has a misting column, a spinning globe, drums, and xylophone-like instruments. 

The park sits on 535 acres, which includes a 2.3-mile trail, with two loops, for visitors to enjoy as well. The route is paved making it a perfect spot for strollers, new bikers, and even skaters (as in in-line skating — there’s also an inline rink on the property). Should you need air in your bike tires or a quick fix, a bicycle repair station with a tire pump and tools can be found near the basketball courts. A more wooded trail runs along the river too. Leashed dogs are welcome, but please be aware that there have been coyote sightings in the park. So keep your pets leashed and your eyes peeled. 

As you might expect, the park also features tons of open fields and green space for running, playing, lounging — whatever. Tennis courts, basketball courts, and the skating rink are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Unless you’re using the Sprayground or pool facilities (only for swim lessons), the onsite restrooms are port-a-potties. 

*Photos provided by www.monmouthcountyparks.com*