If taking your pups out for a hike is one of the best parts of your day, check out this guide for some of the best places to walk your furry friends in New Jersey!
And check out our map for dog-friendly swimming spots, too.
North Jersey
Jenny Jump State Forest (Hope). This is one of the most overlooked state forests (in our opinions, and must be one of the visited! So check out the trail maps in this North Jersey state forest and plan a trip for you and your pup — you might be the only ones there!
Sussex Branch Trail (Stanhope to Newton). Since this trail is 37 miles out-and-back, hop on anywhere and take your pup for a long walk!
Haledon Reservoir (Franklin Lakes). For an easy loop for you and your dogs, check out this hike in Franklin Lakes. You can try the detour through the middle on some bridges, or walk around the whole reservoir.
South Mountain Reservation (West Orange). This park is perfect for dogs, especially in the summer, because they can cool off in the small pond that the waterfall makes. So what are you waiting for?
Central Jersey
Manasquan Reservoir (Howell). Take the loop around the reservoir or explore some of the trails surrounding it, too. You never know what you might find!
D&R Canal (Trenton to New Brunswick). This path spans a ton of miles along the D&R canal (and state park), so you and your dog can pick it up anywhere and watch the cyclists and boaters along the way.
Hartshorne Woods Park (Atlantic Highlands). Hike through history at this historic park overlooking the New York Harbor.
Cheesequake State Park. There are so many places to explore in this state park that many of us drive through on the parkway. The next time you’re driving by, take a detour with the pups and check it out!
South Jersey
Smithville Mansion Trails & Smith’s Woods (Mt. Holly). Hike and explore the 312-acre park, which also has a creek-entry — perfect for swimming with your pooch, too!
Maurice River Bluffs Preserve (Millville). Walk the 4.5 miles of peaceful riverbanks and if your dog is quiet, see what birds you might be able to spot!
Belleplain State Forest (Cape May and Cumberland Counties). Take your dogs for swim in a converted cranberry bog in the afternoon after a long hike through the Pinelands in the Belleplain State Forest. There are even pet-friendly campsites here!
Franklin Parker Preserve (Chatsworth). Your pup will love a stroll through this preserve in the heart of the Pinelands.
Swimming Holes
Dog-Friendly Spots, Too
Hiking & Camping
Get outside!
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