1-08-2025 4:53pm

New Winter Programs and Photo-Ops Available at Scenic Somerset County Parks

Donnella Tilery Editor

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ – Take advantage of the Somerset County park system’s exquisite parks and educational programs. Somerset County parks offer seasonal learning opportunities providing environmental, cultural, and recreational experiences; exotic gardens with scenic locations for special events and stunning photo opportunities; as well as interesting exhibits available throughout the year.

Registration is now open for new and recurring winter programs at the Environmental Education Center (EEC) throughout January and February. For those planning a special event, now is the ideal time to obtain a photo permit and reserve a spot at the scenic Colonial Park, which contains beautiful botanical gardens; or Leonard J. Buck Garden, which has one of the finest rock gardens in the eastern United States. Park visitors can also enjoy Nature Through a Child’s Eye, an art exhibit that will open on Jan. 9.

Nature Through a Child’s Eye Art Exhibit
Explore nature through children’s eyes at a colorful art display of textures and shapes depicting nature. This free art exhibit will enthrall people of all ages.

The exhibit is available from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9, to Sunday, Feb. 2, at the EEC, but is closed on Monday, Jan. 20, for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Winter Programs Sponsored By the EEC
2025 Biodiversity Survey: Open House (new program)
In this open house, participants will learn how to help the EEC complete its Biodiversity Survey by identifying the number of species found in Lord Stirling Park.

The open house is from 1 to 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18, at the EEC. This is a free event and is appropriate for ages 13 years and older. Registration is required.

Animal Tracks

Hike beautiful trails with a Naturalist while searching for signs of animal life. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather, and boots are strongly recommended. The program occurs on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. The cost is $7 per adult, and $6 per student and senior citizen. Registration is required.

Both programs occur at the EEC’s Lord Stirling Park,190 Lord Stirling Road in Basking Ridge.

For more information, call 908-722-1200, ext. 5002, or visit somersetcountyparks.org. Individuals with hearing or speech impairment can call the Relay Service at 711.

Permits Available for Weddings, Events, and Posed Photography

Leonard J. Buck Garden and Colonial Park Gardens both feature stunning flora and fauna for ideal photo opportunities. Anyone seeking an idyllic location for important events such as weddings, sweet sixteen, bar- or bat mitzvahs, or quinceañeras, should consider reserving an area in Colonial Park Gardens.

To reserve a venue in Colonial Park Gardens, reservations must be made two weeks in advance. Note: Leonard J. Buck Garden accommodates posed photography only.

Cost of Permits

Wedding ceremonies and milestone events – $200 per hour, per venue
Posed photography – $175 per hour, per venue
Other events for posed photography – $100 per hour, per venue

For reservations and information call 908-722-1200, ext. 5721 for Colonial Park Gardens, and ext. 5621 for Leonard J. Buck Garden. Individuals with hearing or speech impairment can call the Relay Service at 711.

Anti-Discrimination Policy

While using park facilities, permit holders and visitors must agree to the Somerset County Park Commission’s discrimination policy that prohibits discrimination of any person or group of people due to race, color, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, and religious or political affiliation.

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About Somerset County

The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.