Dog beach · Berkeley Township, NJ

Dogs at Island Beach State Park

Can I bring my dog, and where on the sand?
Limited access

Not on the main swimming beach in summer, but dogs are allowed on non-lifeguarded stretches of the park year-round.

Leashed dogs (6-ft max) allowed year-round on non-lifeguarded ("unprotected") beaches; from Memorial Day weekend through Oct 1, dogs are barred from the lifeguarded ocean swimming beaches but allowed south of them, on leash.

Where dogs can go

Leashed dogs (6-ft max) allowed year-round on non-lifeguarded ("unprotected") beaches; from Memorial Day weekend through Oct 1, dogs are barred from the lifeguarded ocean swimming beaches but allowed south of them, on leash.

Where or when dogs are not allowed

Lifeguarded ocean swimming beaches closed to dogs Memorial Day weekend - October 1; Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail closed to dogs year-round.

Leash and beach rules

Official NJ DEP park page; owners must clean up waste and may not leave pets unattended in vehicles.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
Berkeley Township, NJ
View the official beach rules →
Last verified 2026-07-09

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Island Beach State Park?

Not on the main swimming beach in summer, but dogs are allowed on non-lifeguarded stretches of the park year-round. Leashed dogs (6-ft max) allowed year-round on non-lifeguarded ("unprotected") beaches; from Memorial Day weekend through Oct 1, dogs are barred from the lifeguarded ocean swimming beaches but allowed south of them, on leash.

What is the dog rule at Island Beach State Park?

Official NJ DEP park page; owners must clean up waste and may not leave pets unattended in vehicles.

When are dogs not allowed at Island Beach State Park?

Lifeguarded ocean swimming beaches closed to dogs Memorial Day weekend - October 1; Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail closed to dogs year-round.

Are service animals allowed at Island Beach State Park?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.