John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park: A Great Place To Take Family

If you are looking for a place to take the family, provided it is not raining, and your funds are low, take a drive to John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park at Berkeley Island. Located at 399 Brennan Concourse in Berkeley Township, this free park is 25 acres of beauty and fun. The first thing you see when you enter the park is a playground on the right, which is perfect for the youngest of kids. Towards the end of the playground area is a spray park, which indicates that it wouldn't be a bad idea to have your little ones' bathing suits with you. There are bathrooms on the premises that are suitable for changing their clothes.

As you walk further into the park, you will come across a pavilion, which can be rented out to accommodate up to 120 people. You can get all the information about this by visiting their website here. There are also picnic areas with grills, however, you must bring your own charcoal. I do recommend that you arrive early if you want to enjoy this feature on the weekend because it can get crowded and grills and picnic tables are limited.

Scattered around the park, you will find areas to enjoy bocce ball, corn hole or horseshoes. I found the walking paths to be a great place to get some exercise and enjoy the sun at the same time.

There is a fishing and crabbing pier, as well as other areas located by the water for those who enjoy this activity. Bait stations are set up, as well as a spot to measure your crab to determine if you can keep it or throw it back in. The last time that I was there, some of the boats were having better luck with the fish, but a few people left with some nice size crabs in their baskets.

I was able to get nice photos of the boats and fishing area, while my grandchildren played in the spray park. This was made possible because their parents were also there. It was also nice to walk away from a good time with money still in my wallet. The park is open from dawn to dusk for your enjoyment.