National Wildlife Refuge · NJ

Dogs at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

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

On most trails, yes: leashed dogs can walk seven designated trails and the Wildlife Drive, but Holgate Beach and four other trails are off-limits.

Leashed dogs are allowed on Wildlife Drive, Bristow Trail, Jen's Trail, Grassland Trail, deCamp Wildlife Trail, Cedar Bonnet Island Trail, and Eno's Pond Trail.

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed dogs are allowed on Wildlife Drive, Bristow Trail, Jen's Trail, Grassland Trail, deCamp Wildlife Trail, Cedar Bonnet Island Trail, and Eno's Pond Trail.

Where dogs are not allowed

Holgate Beach year-round, plus Akers Woodland Trail, Leeds Eco-Trail, Barnegat Overlook, and Graveling Point Trail

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

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge?

On most trails, yes: leashed dogs can walk seven designated trails and the Wildlife Drive, but Holgate Beach and four other trails are off-limits. Leashed dogs are allowed on Wildlife Drive, Bristow Trail, Jen's Trail, Grassland Trail, deCamp Wildlife Trail, Cedar Bonnet Island Trail, and Eno's Pond Trail.

What is the leash rule at Edwin B. Forsythe 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 Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge?

Holgate Beach year-round, plus Akers Woodland Trail, Leeds Eco-Trail, Barnegat Overlook, and Graveling Point Trail

Are service animals allowed at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge?

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