Like humans, dogs require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. One of the best things you can do for your furry friend’s mental and physical health is to take them out to explore the great outdoors. Not only are dog-friendly adventures an excellent way for you and your dog to get moving and socializing, but they can also help strengthen the bond you have with your canine companion.
To help you and your pup explore together, we’ve gathered a list of some of our favorite dog-friendly adventures across New Jersey.
The Best Dog-Friendly Adventures in New Jersey
Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area – Dog-Friendly Beaches and Trails
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
391 3rd Avenue Manasquan, NJ
Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area consists of 55 acres of dog-friendly beaches and grassy fields. You and your dog can take a long stroll along the sandy beach and enjoy some truly stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
If your dog enjoys the water, they will love splashing around in the shallow waters of Crabtown Creek. Further north along the coastline, you will find plenty of anglers enjoying a day of fishing. For a memorable experience, you and your pup can walk along the beach in the evening and wait for one of the park’s beautiful sunsets.
While there is a section of the beach where dogs are prohibited, the whole eastern part is completely dog-friendly. It is worth noting that dogs must remain on a leash at all times while exploring the park, as the park authority does what it can to protect birds and other types of wildlife that live in the area. If you’d like to give your dog some off-leash play, you can head to the fenced-in area at Thompson Park in nearby Lincroft.
Overall, Fisherman’s Cove is a beautiful place to explore, and visiting should offer your dog plenty of opportunities to observe, sniff, and socialize with other pups.
Thompson Park – Off-Leash Dog Park
www.monmouthcountyparks.com
07738, Thompson Park Lincroft, NJThis off-leash dog park is located within Thompson Park, which boasts a creative arts center, plenty of trails, sports fields, and several historic buildings. The grassy, 1.5-acre dog area is completely fenced and gated, so pet parents can unleash without worrying about pups running off and getting lost. There is a small, 1/4-acre portion of the park dedicated to dogs under 35 lbs, so if you have a smaller dog that gets nervous around larger breeds, they will still be able to socialize and have a fun time.
While visiting the park, dog parents can relax and keep an eye on their furry friends from the comfort of one of several patios with sheltered picnic tables. If you find yourself out of dog waste bags, the park supplies waste bags and plenty of garbage cans throughout the park.
To increase the safety of all visitors, dogs must have up-to-date vaccinations and wear a collar with a licensed tag. There are also limits on the number of dogs permitted into the park at any one time, which helps keep things from getting too crowded.
Overall, this is a great off-leash dog park that will have you and your pup returning week after week!
Timber Creek Park – 9 Acre Dog Park and Dog-Friendly Trails
www.camdencounty.com
236 Taylor Ave. & Chews Landing Road Blackwood, NJTimber Creek Park’s 128 acres of hardwood forest, grassy fields, and winding creeks are fantastic to explore with your pup. Not only are the forest-covered trails open to leashed dogs, but Timber Creek Park also features a 9-acre off-leash dog park.
The enclosed dog park is the real highlight. It is located in the forest, meaning your dog can run around and socialize in an environment with a truly natural and open look and feel. There is also plenty of shaded picnic and sitting areas, so you and your dog can easily find somewhere to relax and eat after you have burned off some calories on the trails.
Indoor washrooms, numerous water fountains, and plenty of parking make things easy. If your dog enjoys the water, there’s a dedicated swimming area near the lake. The dog park, in particular, has plenty of regulars, so if you live in the area, you and your dog are sure to make some friends!
Kim Marie’s Eat n Drink Away – Dog-Friendly Restaurant
www.kimmarieseatndrinkaway.com
1411 Kingsley Street Asbury Park, NJKim Marie’s Eat n Drink Away is a cozy, Irish-style pub that offers delicious food and cold drinks. Best of all, it is a genuinely dog-friendly restaurant!
Not only do they welcome dogs, they even have a dog-specific section on their food menu, so you and your pup can sit down together for a tasty meal. Whether your dog prefers beef or chicken, you will be able to find a delicious treat that will have them licking their chops. Not only will your pup enjoy his meal, but the doggy dinners also contain healthy and nutritious ingredients that will not upset your dog’s digestive system.
The outdoor dining area and surrounding picnic tables are a great place to sit back and bond with your pup. As if the doggie menu and dog-friendly environment were not enough, the tasty (human) food and the friendly staff will have you coming back for more!
Final Words
Walks around the neighborhood are a great way to ensure your dog gets enough daily exercise, but they can become a little mundane. Get out and explore by visiting dog-friendly trails, beaches, off-leash parks, and more to keep things exciting. New Jersey has plenty to offer dogs and their owners, so get out there and find your next adventure!
If you need any supplies while you’re out, check out some of our favorite local pet businesses in the area! And if you’re adventuring away from home and need to speak with a vet about your pup, Hello Ralphie can connect you with one right away- no matter where you are.
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