Summer is officially upon us: the fourth of July fireworks, the long, full days, the sweaty, sticky heat. It’s the perfect time to curl up with a book or a loved one under a shady tree, watching nature in its splendor. And in West Windsor Township, there are plenty of places where you can do just that.

West Windsor is home to three county parks and recreational facilities and no fewer than 11 township parks — including the 120-acre Duck Pond Park, which is about half nature preserve, and half space for active recreation. At Duck Pond Park, you can make use of three soccer fields, two basketball courts, two tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, picnic areas and walking paths — plus, of course, you can take in the majestic splendor of the pond itself. Also in town is the Roger Preserve/Millstone River Preserve, with two walking and hiking trails that make their way through an oak forest, wetlands, an old tree nursery and more, leading to high bluffs with a beautiful view. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching or a picnic. Learn more about West Windsor’s outdoor spaces here.

BestRentNJ.com rental apartments available for lease in West Windsor include homes at Princeton Terrace West Windsor. Other nearby apts for rent include residences at Yorkshire Village Senior 55+, Delaware Heights and Yorkshire Meadows. Use BestRentNJ.com’s Apartment Locator to find the residence that’s right for you.