Island Beach State Park Dog Rules, NJ

Island Beach State Park dog rules allow pets to be playful on the sand and water. The policies and laws of this pet-friendly beach in New Jersey are simple. It requires our furry friends to be on a leash at all times. Surf fishing and swimming are the most famous activities here.

This dog-friendly park has over 10 miles of extensive sandy beach, a beautiful shoreline, and views of maritime forests, Barnegat Bay, tidal marshes, and dunes. The beautiful barrier island attracts many visitors, who enjoy many recreational pursuits nearby.

Discover Island Beach State Park dog rules in NJ! Learn about leash regulations, pet-friendly zones, and seasonal guidelines for a safe and enjoyable visit with your furry companion.

Island Beach State Park Dog Rules, New Jersey

Dogs are allowed in the park only on a leash.
The lease can be 6 ft maximum.
During the Summer season, pets are prohibited from entering the swimming beach (lifeguard area).

Dogs are barred from the Spizzle Creek Bird at any time.
Visitors are barred from leaving their pets unattended in a vehicle.
Visitors are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Island Beach Dog State Park, New Jersey

Island Beach State Park Drive on Pass

Island Beach State Park issues fishing permits to visitors, who can drive a four-wheeler on the beach. A 3-day permit costs $75 (residents) and $90 (non-residents). Annual access is also available for $195 to $225.

When driving on the beach, fishing equipment must be available in the vehicle. Required equipment includes bait and tackle, a spare tire, shovel, flashlight, tire gauge, workable jack, fire extinguisher, litter bag, auto first-aid kit, and a minimum one-fourth fuel tank.

How to reach Island Beach State Park

By Air: The nearest airport to Island State Beach Park is Lakehurst Naval Air Station (NEL), which is 32 km away.
By Train: Newark Penn Station is the closest railway station to the park.
By Bus: The Port Authority Bus Terminal operates a bus service. The bus goes to Toms River Park & Ride, from where visitors take a cab to the beach.

Dog-Friendly Island Beach State Park – New Jersey

Island Beach State Park is a beautifully preserved barrier island. It houses an array of natural habitats and shorelines. The park features wildlife such as ospreys and foxes. Over 400 species of flora & fauna are also spotted.

The island is a short drive from the beaches and boardwalk of Seaside Heights. State Park organizes various events to attract tourists. There are multiple options for pet-friendly hotels and restaurants. Many good dog boarding facilities with certified caretakers are also available.

Parking: 48 W Water St Parking and Barnegat Branch Trail parking

Things to do: Visit Cattus Island County Park and East Coast Escape Room
Dog-Friendly Restaurants: Red Fox Beach Bar & Grill and Bum Rogers Crab House & Tavern
Dog-Friendly Hotels: Howard Johnson by Wyndham Toms River and Boardwalk Sand & Surf Inn Beach Hotel

Dog Boarding: Pampered Pets Hospitality Center and Lucky’s Bed & Biscuit
Events: Spring Festival, Pet Expo, and Governor’s Cup Surf Fishing Tournament
Activities: Swimming, picnicking, bicycling, fishing, windsurfing, surfing, scuba diving, etc.

Amenities: Changing rooms, showers, restrooms, concession building selling food and beach supplies, first-aid station, etc
Hours: From 08:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m. The park opens at 07:00 a.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend.

Island Beach State Park Rules and Regulations

Smoking tobacco and consuming alcohol are prohibited.

Visitors must keep the park clean and protect plants & animals.
Only duck hunting boat trailers are allowed during the waterfowl hunting season.
Swimming is allowed when lifeguards are present.

Only a small fire is allowed 50’ east of the dunes.
Visitors are responsible for extinguishing the fire and filling holes dug by them.

Island Beach State Park Fishing

Island Beach State Park is a popular destination for saltwater anglers. It’s a perfect spot for surf fishing. Well-known species are bluefish, striped bass, weakfish, tautog, and summer flounder. Saltwater fishing is allowed all over except designated swimming areas. Anglers (16 years or above) must register with the NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry Program.

Island Beach State Park Beach Cam

Island Beach State Park offers visitors a webcam facility. The cams were established and are operated via donations. Visitors can view live footage of the park at any time. There are two webcams: Beach Cam at Swimming Area 1 and Pete McLain Osprey Cam.

In the osprey season, many people watch the return of these birds to their nest. They witness hatching eggs, rebuilding nests, etc. Local surfing and beach conditions are also viewed via webcams.

Island Beach State Park Senior Pass

New Jersey offers a Senior Citizen or Disability Pass to residents. It grants them free parking entrance and a discount on camping rates. The passes are provided to people with disabilities. Residents who are 62 years old or above are also eligible. These are obtained from the State Park or Trenton office.

Island Beach State Park Christmas Tree

Over the past few years, collecting Christmas trees has become a tradition. Over 3000 trees have been collected so far. However, collection depends on weather and natural conditions.

To prevent dune erosion, the park authority collected Christmas trees. Contributors must register first. Collected trees are set up at the base of eroding dunes. This prevents the wind from blowing away sand and helps build new dunes faster.

How long is Island Beach State Park, NJ?

Island Beach State Park in NJ is 10 miles long. It is situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay.

Who owns Island Beach State Park?

Island Beach State Park is owned and administered by the New Jersey State Park Service.

How many acres is Island Beach State Park?

Island Beach State Park has 2646 acres (approximately).

Does Island Beach State Park sell food?

Yes, Island Beach State Park features a food court and beach shop, both named Islander Food Court. It has two locations inside the park, Islander North (swimming area #1) and Islander South (swimming area #2). You can get burgers, salads, ice cream, etc.

Conclusion

Island Beach State Park has dog rules that allow visitors to bring pets. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset with your furry friends. Clear waters and a mild breeze offer a perfect escape from daily life. The natural features of this place look breathtaking.

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Island Beach State Park Dog Rules, NJ | New Laws 2025