New Jersey parks launch new pet-friendly program. Here's what to know

At these New Jersey parks, nature lovers can reconnect with the outdoors alongside their own furry friends. 

Thanks to a new pet friendly camping program, pet owners can bring up to two domestic dogs or cats to designated campsites for just an additional charge of $5 a night. 

Two dogs sits on nature next to the tent in the evening at sunset.

Which NJ parks have pet-friendly campsites?

  • Allaire State Park
  • Bass River State Forest
  • Belleplain State Forest 
  • Brendan T. Byrne State Forest
  • Cheesequake State Park
  • High Point State Park
  • Jenny Jump State Forest
  • Parvin State Park
  • Round Valley Recreation Area
  • Stephens State Park
  • Stokes State Forest
  • Swartswood State Park
  • Wawayanda State Park
  • Wharton State Forest

(Parks and Forest staff will advise patrons which sites within these parks allow pets.)

What should I do before camping with my pet?

  • Permittees are required to fill out a Pet Registration and Certification Form during the check-in process.
  • Dogs and cats must have current rabies vaccinations, and owners must have written proof of the pet’s current rabies vaccine/license. 
  • Pet camping is limited to domestic dogs and cats, with a maximum of TWO pets per camping permit. 
  • Caged pets like birds, amphibians or reptiles are allowed only within camping recreational vehicles like trailers or motor homes.

Campground rules for bringing pets

  • Pets must be kept on a leash six-feet-long or less in and under its owners control at all times.
  • Pets are prohibited from all buildings, swimming beaches and swimming waters, non-designated pet friendly campsites and overnight facilities.
  • Pets cannot be left unattended unless the owner is using the restroom or visiting a park facility briefly, for which the pet must be confined to a camping unit or vehicle weather permitting. 
  • Quiet hours are from 10pm to 6pm to be observed by all visitors.
  • Excessive barking and other pet noises that may cause a disturbance to others must be controlled.
  • Any injuries must be immediately reported to the State Park Police or to the 24-hour DEP HOTLINE at 877-927-6337.
  • Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and disposing of any waste. 
  • Pet food cannot be left outside, as it will attract wildlife. 
  • Pet washing in natural waterways with potable water such as lakes, rivers and streams is prohibited. 
  • If a pet is suspected of being neglected, animal control officers will be contacted. Owners are responsible for any animal control costs.

The New Jersey State Park service strongly emphasizes responsible ownership, and violators of these guidelines are subject to permit revocation and eviction from participating parks and forests.

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