New Jersey · New Jersey State Parks

Dogs at Island Beach State Park

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

Yes year-round on the non-lifeguarded beaches, but dogs are banned from the swimming beach in summer and from the Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail at all times.

Leashed dogs (6-foot max) may use non-lifeguarded beach areas year-round; lifeguarded ocean swimming beaches are off-limits Memorial Day weekend through early October.

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed dogs (6-foot max) may use non-lifeguarded beach areas year-round; lifeguarded ocean swimming beaches are off-limits Memorial Day weekend through early October.

Where dogs are not allowed

Lifeguarded swimming beaches (Memorial Day-early Oct) and the Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail at all times.

Good to know

Don't leave dogs unattended in vehicles during warm weather.

Leash rule

6 feet maximum. Retractable leashes are often not allowed.

Service animals

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

Official source
New Jersey State Parks
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Last verified 2026-07-09
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Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Island Beach State Park?

Yes year-round on the non-lifeguarded beaches, but dogs are banned from the swimming beach in summer and from the Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail at all times. Leashed dogs (6-foot max) may use non-lifeguarded beach areas year-round; lifeguarded ocean swimming beaches are off-limits Memorial Day weekend through early October.

What is the leash rule at Island Beach State Park?

6 feet maximum. Retractable leashes are often not allowed.

Where are dogs not allowed at Island Beach State Park?

Lifeguarded swimming beaches (Memorial Day-early Oct) and the Spizzle Creek Bird Blind Trail at all times.

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.