Island Beach State Park Dog Rules, NJ | New Laws 2024
Island Beach State Park dog rules allow pets to be playful on sand & 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 & swimming are the most famous activities here.
This dog-friendly park has over 10 miles of extensive sandy beach. A beautiful shoreline along with views of maritime forests, Barnegat Bay, tidal marshes, and dunes. The beautiful barrier island attracts tons of visitors. People get to enjoy many recreational pursuits nearby.
Island Beach State Park Dog Rules, New Jersey
- Dogs are allowed in the park only with a lease.
- 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 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, It allows them to drive a four-wheeler on the beach. Charges for a 3-day permit costs $75 (residents) & $90 (non-residents). Annual access for $195 to $225 is also available.
Availability of fishing equipment in vehicles is mandatory when driving on the beach. Required equipment are bait & tackle, spare tire, shovel, flashlight, tire gauge, workable jack, fire extinguisher, litter bag, auto first-aid kit, and minimum one-fourth fuel tank.
How to reach Island Beach State Park
- By Air: The nearest airport to Island State Beach Park is Lakehurst Naes Airport (NEL), which is 32 km away.
- By Train: Newark Penn Station is the closest railway station to the park.
- By Bus: A bus service is operated by Port Authority Bus Terminal. The bus goes up to Toms River Park & Ride. From here, 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 the boardwalk of Seaside Heights. State Park organizes various events to attract tourists. There are multiple options for pet-friendly hotels & restaurants. Many good dog boarding 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 and 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 am to 08:00 pm. The park opens at 07:00 am from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend.
Island Beach State Park Rules and Regulations
- Smoking tobacco and consuming alcohol is 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 flounders. 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. People get to 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, the collection of 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 get themselves registered first. Collected trees are set up at the base of eroding dunes. This prevented blowing away of sand with wind. It also helped in building new dunes faster.
Conclusion
Island Beach State Park dog rules allow visitors to bring pets. Enjoy a mesmerizing sunset with your furry friends. Clear waters & mild breeze offer a perfect escape from daily life. The natural features of this place look breathtaking.
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