Weekend Warriors Find Adventure at Turkey Swamp Park

For an event to be held rain or shine, you never know what you’re get. At 's Outdoor Adventure Expo on May 15, adventurers got a little of both.  Muddy grounds and the occasional burst of sunshine set the backdrop for this free annual event, which invites people of all ages to get a taste of the numerous outdoor recreational opportunities that exist throughout the county.

For those looking to bait a hook and compete for the best catch of the day, a fishing derby was on the schedule. The catch and release event tested the skill of 57 experienced and novice anglers. And according to Karen Livingstone of the Monmouth County Park System, a 13-inch catfish was the day’s big winner.

The 17-acre lake was a huge attraction for water-lovers eager to have a ride on canoes, kayaks and paddle boats. On land, the park’s 25-foot rock-climbing wall, archery range and hiking trails enticed visitors to get their heart rates up in the wilderness. Clubs and outdoor equipment retail representatives were on-hand all day with free lectures, demonstrations, mini-clinics and advice.

“Although the weather forecast may have kept some people away, those who came found a break in the weather and really enjoyed themselves,” Livingstone said.

Howell resident Jim Cawthern and his son Adam took advantage of everything the expo had to offer.

“This event is great,” Jim said. “I can teach my son how to fish, take a ride on the paddle boats, and try rock climbing and archery. It’s rare to get to do all that in one place. We love it.”