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National Wildlife Refuge · NJ

Dogs at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Limited access

In most of the refuge, yes: leashed dogs are welcome in the Delaware Bay and Great Cedar Swamp divisions, but not at the Two Mile Beach Unit.

Dogs on a short, hand-held leash are permitted in the Delaware Bay and Great Cedar Swamp divisions.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs on a short, hand-held leash are permitted in the Delaware Bay and Great Cedar Swamp divisions.

Where dogs are not allowed

Two Mile Beach Unit

Leash and pet rule

Pets must be leashed at all times on a national wildlife refuge, and are usually limited to designated trails, roads, and public-use areas. Many refuges close sensitive habitat to pets to protect wildlife, so check the refuge page before you go.

Service animals

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

Official source
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
View the refuge page →
Last verified 2026-07-09

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Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Cape May National Wildlife Refuge?

In most of the refuge, yes: leashed dogs are welcome in the Delaware Bay and Great Cedar Swamp divisions, but not at the Two Mile Beach Unit. Dogs on a short, hand-held leash are permitted in the Delaware Bay and Great Cedar Swamp divisions.

What is the leash rule at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge?

Pets must be leashed at all times on a national wildlife refuge, and are usually limited to designated trails, roads, and public-use areas. Many refuges close sensitive habitat to pets to protect wildlife, so check the refuge page before you go.

Where are dogs not allowed at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge?

Two Mile Beach Unit

Are service animals allowed at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge?

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