Parks and Nature and Off-Leash Parks

Ocean County Park

Choose between a peaceful leashed walk beneath towering trees or a romp inside the park’s spacious, fully fenced off-leash area.

Take Me There
Dog policy Mixed Access
Cost Free for the main park | Annual $5 Ocean County permit required for the off-leash park
Best time to visit Year Round

Ocean County Park offers two very different kinds of dog-friendly outings in one place. Explore the grounds together on leash, following the 3.1-mile perimeter trail through mature trees and open green spaces, or visit the dedicated off-leash facility for more energetic play.

The 323-acre park was once park of John D. Rockefeller's vacation estate, and many of its distinctive white pines, Norway spruces, and hemlocks were brought in from around the country. Today, those mature trees give the park a peaceful, almost countryside-like feel right in the heart of Lakewood.

For dogs who prefer running to strolling, the park also contains a large, fully fenced dog park with separate spaces for small and large dogs. The off-leash are requires an Ocean County permit, so registration must be completed before visiting. The surrounding park remains open to leashed dogs without a permit.

Beyond the dog friendly spaces, the park also has picnic areas, restrooms, open fields, playgrounds, athletic courts, fishing, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

Plan your visit

Address
659 Ocean Avenue
Lakewood NJ 08701
Hours
Main Park: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Dog Park: 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
Phone
(732) 506-9090
Get directions Official website

Know before you go

  • Dogs must remain restrained throughout the main park and may only be off leash inside the designated dog facility.
  • The off-leash area requires an annual Ocean County permit. Registration requires a current municipal dog license, vaccination records, and proof that male dogs are neutered.
  • Puppies younger than six months, dogs in heat, and unneutered male dogs are not permitted inside the dog park.
  • Children under the age of eight may not enter the off-leash area
  • There is a limit of two dogs per person and twenty dogs in the park at once
  • Food & treats are prohibited in the off-leash area
  • Bring your own drinking water and a bowl in case water is unavailable
  • Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the fenced area
  • Dog owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dog

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