Ceres Park

Ceres Park is a beautiful landscape of natural growth, hosting a thriving community ofanimal life that includes mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and many bird species. With an extensive trail system through upland and wetland forests, the preserve can seem much bigger than 52 acres. From the parking lot, a mile-long path through the forest is criss-crossed by many less-defined trails. The trails lead through a diverse selection of plant life to beautiful views of Emerald and Cedar Lakes. These lakes were historically “marl pits,” formed during a mining operation that existed here through the 1800s andearly 1900s. Marl is a nutrient-rich marine deposit that was used as fertilizer and gave towns like “Marlton” and “Marlboro” their names. Walking/jogging/biking trails lead to the Chestnut Branch of Mantua Creek and through adjacent county-owned lands, allowing visitors to explore beyond the boundaries of the park.