Neighborhood Navigators: Resident-Recommended Local Hot Spots

Applewood is surrounded by a thriving New Jersey community offering a wealth of social, cultural and natural destinations to discover and enjoy. In this new series, residents share their favorite places to relax, socialize, learn, shop and dine.

Lake Topanemus: Freshwater Haven for Angler William Matthews

Year-round, William Matthews can be found at Lake Topanemus Park in Freehold fishing for calico bass, bluegill, catfish and trout. “This lake has been my happy place since I moved to Applewood in 2020,” William notes. He is also a park volunteer helping visitors find their way around and helping to keep the surrounding 71-acre park grounds tidy.

Dating back to the 1800s, the park’s attractions include paddle boating and kayaking, birdwatching, picnicking and walking trails. Many people visit the park to enjoy the seasons in a tranquil setting full of trees, flowers and wildlife.

“I have about 30 lake trout in my freezer from summer fishing,” he notes. The owner of more than 20 fishing reels says the daily sport keeps him healthy and social. “The lake is like a second home to me and I look forward to my time there every day.”

Meet more interesting residents at Applewood: https://applewood.com/meet-the-residents1/. Call 732-303-7416 to learn more about Applewood’s active continuing care retirement community (CCRC) located in Monmouth County, NJ, or click here for more information.