Advances in technology led to the introduction of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles, making coastal defense fortifications and Nike missiles obsolete. This interim, northern anchor for the Trail is located near Matawan and serves as the Sandy Hook Region Welcome Center. The Park offers a variety of outdoor experiences and facilities from swimming, camping, and picnicking to hiking trails and a nature center. During the busy summer months, the park suggests calling ahead to determine if it has reached its maximum carrying capacity. Welcome Center exhibits and Trail information are available, even though the remainder of the park may be inaccessible due to visitor capacity limitations.
Hours vary during the remainder of the year.
Except for Great Beds Light which sits in the waters of Raritan Bay, all are located near the waterfront on Smith Street, Front Street, Water Street, and Catalpa Avenue. From Exit 10 of the New Jersey Turnpike, take state road 440 east to the State Street exit. Continue on State until you come to the intersection with Lewis Street. Turn right on Lewis for one block, then left on Catalpa and follow it to the waterfront. The museum offers an assortment of displays from the early 1900s to the present, on products developed in Fort Monmouth laboratories and research centers.