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Protected Area · New Jersey

Brick Reservoir Conservation Area

Brick Reservoir Conservation Area is a vital natural habitat in Ocean County, New Jersey, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation in a tranquil forested setting.

Protected Area1504+ Trails

Designation

Protected Area

Total Wilderness Area

150

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Brick Reservoir Conservation Area

Brick Reservoir Conservation Area is a vital natural habitat in Ocean County, New Jersey, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation in a tranquil forested setting.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Brick Reservoir Conservation Area is a protected natural region located in Brick Township, Ocean County, New Jersey. The area surrounds the Brick Reservoir, a man-made body of water that serves as a drinking water source and a wildlife refuge. The conservation area encompasses a mix of hardwood forests, wetlands, and open water habitats. This diversity supports a wide range of plant and animal species, including migratory birds, amphibians, and small mammals. Originating as a reservoir constructed in the early 20th century, the area has since evolved into a key green space offering passive recreational activities such as hiking and birdwatching. Multiple trails wind through the forested surroundings, giving visitors a peaceful walking experience with scenic views of the reservoir. Anglers also frequent certain parts of the reservoir for fishing, where fish species such as largemouth bass and sunfish are present. The conservation area is relatively small compared to large state or national parks, but it offers an accessible outdoor retreat for residents and visitors in the region. With its proximity to residential areas, it plays an important role in local conservation efforts by maintaining habitat connectivity and protecting water quality. The quiet natural setting combined with the reservoir’s reflective surface creates a tranquil environment popular for photography and nature study. Overall, Brick Reservoir Conservation Area provides a valuable blend of recreation, education, and resource protection within an increasingly developed landscape.

Field Guide · Protected Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Brick Reservoir Conservation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Nature Trails & History at Allaire State Park★ 7.0⌖ 6 miHiking
Allaire State Park

Nature Trails & History at Allaire State Park

Explore Allaire State Park in Wall Township, NJ, offering easy hiking trails through wooded areas and river views combined with a preserved 19th-century historic village. Ideal for families, biking, and beginner paddling along the Manasquan River. Visit in spring or fall for best conditions.

Natural Oasis at Manasquan Reservoir in Howell Township★ 6.5⌖ 9 miHiking
Manasquan Reservoir

Natural Oasis at Manasquan Reservoir in Howell Township

Manasquan Reservoir in Howell Township, NJ features an easy 5-mile trail around a freshwater lake. Ideal for hiking, fishing, bird watching, and biking, it offers peaceful wildlife viewing and scenic water views. Best visited spring through fall with family-friendly paths and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Scenic Coastal Hiking at Maclearie Trail, Belmar, NJ★ 6.5⌖ 9 miHiking
Maclearie Trail

Scenic Coastal Hiking at Maclearie Trail, Belmar, NJ

Explore the easy and scenic Maclearie Trail in Belmar, NJ. This coastal path offers peaceful walking with water views, salt marsh habitats, and plenty of birdwatching opportunities. Best visited in spring and fall, it's ideal for beginners seeking a quiet nature escape near the Jersey Shore.

Scenic River & Woodland Retreat at Shark River Park★ 5.5⌖ 9 miHiking
Shark River Park

Scenic River & Woodland Retreat at Shark River Park

Shark River Park in Wall Township, NJ, offers easy hiking trails and river access with opportunities for fishing, biking, and wildlife watching. Visitors enjoy peaceful river views, family-friendly terrain, and seasonal wildflowers along mostly flat, well-maintained paths.

Coastal Charm at Belmar Beach, New Jersey★ 6.5⌖ 9 miSwimming
Belmar Beach

Coastal Charm at Belmar Beach, New Jersey

Belmar Beach in New Jersey offers an easy-access wide sandy shoreline ideal for swimming, surfing, biking, and nature walks. Open from spring to fall, it's family-friendly with lifeguards in summer and seasonal events, though it can get busy during peak months.

Seaside Serenity at Belmar's Natural Beach Area★ 6.2⌖ 10 miBeachcombing
Belmar's Natural Beach Area

Seaside Serenity at Belmar's Natural Beach Area

Belmar's Natural Beach Area in New Jersey offers a peaceful beachcombing and tide pooling experience along a rocky shoreline. Easy access by car, ideal for photography and bird watching, this quiet coastal spot is best visited from late spring to early fall for tranquil ocean views and nature observation.

BeachcombingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Brick Reservoir shoreline offering calm waters and scenic views✦ Diverse avian populations including seasonal migratory birds✦ A network of easy to moderate hiking trails through mixed hardwood forest✦ Quiet fishing spots with opportunities for largemouth bass and sunfish
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no permits required for day use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Brick Reservoir Conservation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Brick Township
⌖ 0.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brick Township, New Jersey

A coastal town offering laid-back beachside recreation combined with diverse inland outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and paddling in green spaces and waterways.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Point Pleasant
⌖ 3.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Point Pleasant, New Jersey

A family-friendly coastal town offering vibrant beach activities, scenic water adventures, and easy access to nature preserves along the Jersey Shore.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Point Pleasant Beach
⌖ 4.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey

A lively coastal town offering vibrant beach adventures, scenic waterways, and diverse outdoor activities blending family-friendly fun with adrenaline-charged experiences.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Bay Head
⌖ 4.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bay Head, New Jersey

A charming coastal town offering tranquil beach days, dynamic paddle adventures, and peaceful bike rides along New Jersey’s scenic shoreline.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Brielle
⌖ 4.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brielle, New Jersey

A charming coastal town offering relaxed, water-based outdoor adventures with scenic parks, biking trails, and peaceful waterfront experiences.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Mantoloking
⌖ 4.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mantoloking, New Jersey

A serene coastal community offering pristine beaches, calm waters, and quiet natural escapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who cherish water-based and seaside adventures.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Brick Reservoir Conservation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.