• The small town of Forked River is located on the central Atlantic coast of New Jersey. The town is named after the Forked River that runs through it. Quaint marinas stretch along the coast where the river meets the bay. From state parks to museums, Forked River is located close to places that offer fun activities that will stimulate and engage children.
  
  

Ocean County Fair

• The Ocean County Fair is held annually in Berkeley Township, just 18 minutes away from Forked River. Held for a week in July each year, the Ocean County Fair brings rides, children's games, live entertainment and educational activities for children and families to enjoy. Classic fair food and snacks such as popcorn, funnel cake and cotton candy are available throughout the fest. Children will enjoy the live animal shows and competitions, various children's entertainers and interactive games. As of 2010, admission to the fair was free for children under 10 and $6 for everyone else.
  
  

Seaside Park

• Seaside Park, located less than 30 minutes from Forked River, is a family-friendly beach area, with two miles of shoreline with a boardwalk. At the north end of the boardwalk is an activity area that features amusement rides and food vendors. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, so families with children swim safely and enjoy a day relaxing on the beach. There is also a small playground nearby, as well.
  
  

Insectropolis

• This quirky museum is dedicated to all sorts of insects from around the world. The building is set up like a large city for bugs with exotic insects such as tarantulas, hissing cockroaches and scorpions. Insectropolis features more than a dozen creative exhibits such as the Rock State Prison, which showcases insects that wreak havoc on crops and spread disease. There is also the Mud Tube, which features underground bugs and termites. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits such as the Caterpillar Cafe where they can inspect insects close up and play insect games on the computer. As of 2010, admission to Insectropolis was $7, and children under 2 years old are free.