When Ocean County was formed in 1850, the township lost some of its territory. It took on its current configuration when its central business district, Farmingdale, ceded from Howell in 1901 and became its own municipality. Two large parks, as well as a smattering of smaller ones with athletic fields, tot lots and picnic areas, are located in Howell. One-third of Allaire State Park lies within Howell's borders. Considered the jewel of Howell, the Manasquan Reservoir Recreation Area occupies 1,200 acres.
Residents gather at the edge of the lake to fish and picnic.
A 5-mile trail circles the lake, and on sunny days, you'll find bicyclists, joggers and the occasional horse and rider enjoying the scenery. The town also has two 18-hole public golf courses. You've got a slow pace of life, excellent schools, low crime rate and a location that's great from a commuting standpoint. Like many other locales within Monmouth County, Howell has a lot to offer. Nearby are Freehold Raceway and Monmouth Park for horseracing buffs, the PNC Bank Art Center and Six Flags Great Adventure.