Toms River Live Cam

Toms River is a township located in Ocean County, New Jersey, United States. It is situated along the Jersey Shore and covers an area of approximately 52 square miles (134 square kilometers). Toms River has a rich history that dates back to its early settlement and subsequent development over the centuries. Here's an overview of its history:

Early Settlement: Toms River was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans, who were part of the Algonquin tribe. The area's natural resources, including the Toms River and the nearby Barnegat Bay, provided sustenance and transportation for the Native American communities.

Colonial Era: European settlement began in the late 17th century when English and Scottish settlers arrived in the region. The area was initially known as "Tom's River" after Thomas Luker, one of the early landowners. In 1768, the area was officially incorporated as "Dover Township." Agriculture and timber industries were vital to the early economy, and shipbuilding became an important trade.

American Revolution: During the American Revolution, Toms River played a strategic role due to its proximity to the Jersey Shore and its waterways. British and American forces clashed in the area, and the village of Toms River was occupied by British troops for a short period.

Industrial Growth: In the 19th century, Toms River experienced industrial growth. The construction of the Toms River and Barnegat Railroad in the 1850s facilitated transportation and trade. The town's economy diversified, with industries such as ironworks, boatbuilding, fishing, and cranberry farming contributing to its prosperity.

Jersey Shore Resort: Toms River became a popular summer resort destination in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town's beautiful shoreline and access to recreational activities attracted tourists seeking a beach getaway. Hotels, boardwalks, and amusement parks were established to accommodate the influx of visitors.

Modern Developments: In the mid-20th century, Toms River experienced significant suburbanization and population growth. The completion of the Garden State Parkway in the 1950s facilitated commuting to nearby cities and led to further residential development. Today, Toms River is one of the largest townships in New Jersey, with a diverse population and a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Environmental Challenges: Toms River faced environmental challenges in the latter half of the 20th century. The area was impacted by industrial pollution, particularly from the Ciba-Geigy chemical plant, which released toxic substances into the environment. The resulting contamination led to health concerns and extensive cleanup efforts.

Today, Toms River continues to be a vibrant community, offering a blend of coastal beauty, historical landmarks, and modern amenities. It is known for its recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and its proximity to barrier island beaches. The township also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing its rich history and diverse heritage.

Top Tourist Attractions

Toms River, New Jersey, offers a range of tourist attractions that cater to different interests. Here are some of the top attractions in the area:

• Ocean County Mall: Located in Toms River, the Ocean County Mall is a popular shopping destination featuring a variety of stores, boutiques, and restaurants. It's an ideal place for shopping enthusiasts to explore and find the latest fashion trends, home goods, electronics, and more.
• Cattus Island County Park: This 530-acre park is a natural oasis in Toms River. It offers hiking and nature trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of Barnegat Bay. Visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystems, observe wildlife, and enjoy activities like fishing and kayaking.
• Toms River Seaport Society & Maritime Museum: This museum showcases Toms River's maritime heritage. It features exhibits on local boatbuilding traditions, historic artifacts, and the town's nautical history. The Seaport Society also hosts events and offers boat tours to give visitors a glimpse into the region's seafaring past.
• River Lady Cruises: Embark on a scenic river cruise aboard the River Lady, a reproduction of a 19th-century paddlewheel riverboat. The leisurely cruise along the Toms River offers picturesque views, live entertainment, and a delicious lunch or dinner buffet.
• Ortley Beach: Situated on the barrier island near Toms River, Ortley Beach offers a beautiful sandy shoreline and ocean views. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, or engage in water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.
• Toms River Country Club: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at the Toms River Country Club. This private club features an 18-hole championship golf course, driving range, and practice facilities. The well-maintained course offers challenges for players of all skill levels.
• Robert J. Novins Planetarium: Located on the campus of Ocean County College, the Robert J. Novins Planetarium offers captivating astronomy shows, laser light concerts, and educational programs. Visitors can explore the wonders of the universe and learn about celestial phenomena in the planetarium's state-of-the-art theater.

These are just a few of the attractions that Toms River has to offer. The town also hosts various festivals, community events, and has numerous parks and recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy.

Climate

Toms River, New Jersey, experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and cool winters. Here's an overview of the climate in Toms River:

• Summers (June to August): Summers in Toms River are generally warm and humid. Average daytime temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 27-33 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels can be high, especially in July and August. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing occasional relief from the heat.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Toms River brings milder temperatures and decreasing humidity. September tends to be warm, with average highs in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 24-28 degrees Celsius). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually cool down, with November seeing average highs in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (around 13-17 degrees Celsius). Fall foliage can be quite picturesque in the area.
• Winters (December to February): Winters in Toms River are relatively cold, but not extreme. Average temperatures in December and January range from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 1-5 degrees Celsius), with occasional dips below freezing. Snowfall is moderate, with an average annual accumulation of about 15-20 inches (38-51 centimeters). However, snowstorms and nor'easters can occasionally bring heavier snowfall.
• Spring (March to May): Spring in Toms River sees a gradual transition from winter to warmer weather. March is still relatively cool, with average highs in the upper 40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 8-13 degrees Celsius). As the season progresses, temperatures rise, with April and May experiencing average highs in the 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 15-22 degrees Celsius). Spring is generally a pleasant time to visit, with blossoming trees and flowers.

It's important to note that weather patterns can vary from year to year, and extreme weather events, such as heatwaves or severe storms, can occur occasionally. It's advisable to check the local weather forecast before planning outdoor activities or traveling to Toms River.

Geography

• Location: Toms River is situated in the eastern part of New Jersey, approximately 70 miles (113 kilometers) south of New York City. It is positioned along the Barnegat Peninsula, a narrow strip of land that separates the Atlantic Ocean from Barnegat Bay.
• Waterways: Toms River is named after the Toms River, a 41-mile (66-kilometer) long river that flows through the township. The river starts near the community of Lakehurst and empties into Barnegat Bay near Island Heights. The Toms River and its tributaries provide recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and water-based activities.
• Barrier Island: The township also includes part of the barrier island that stretches along the Atlantic Ocean. Ortley Beach, a popular seaside community, is located on this barrier island. It offers beach access and scenic views of the ocean.
• Barnegat Bay: Toms River is bordered to the west by Barnegat Bay, a large body of water that separates the mainland from the barrier island. Barnegat Bay is renowned for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities like boating, kayaking, and fishing.
• Pine Barrens: To the northwest of Toms River lies the Pine Barrens, a vast forested area that covers a significant portion of southern New Jersey. This unique ecosystem is characterized by sandy soil, extensive pine forests, and diverse plant and animal species. It provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring nature.
• Coastal Plain: Toms River is part of the Atlantic Coastal Plain, a flat and low-lying region that extends along the eastern seaboard of the United States. The area features sandy soils, salt marshes, and estuaries, creating a diverse and fragile ecosystem.

The geography of Toms River combines the beauty of coastal landscapes, waterways, and nearby natural areas. Its location near the coast offers a variety of recreational activities, while the presence of rivers, bays, and forests adds to the region's natural charm.