Cheesequake State Park - Matawan, NJ
Cheesequake State Park in Matawan, New Jersey, is a beautiful multi-use park known for its blend of lush forests, scenic swamps, and picturesque lakes. It’s a popular destination for pet owners looking for dog-friendly hiking and outdoor adventures with their pups. With four unique, well-marked pet-friendly trails of varying distances, the park offers something for both casual walkers and enthusiastic hikers. Parking is ample and free, making access easy for visitors.
The park welcomes dogs on-leash throughout its many trails and picnic areas, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a dog park near Matawan, NJ. While there is no dedicated off-leash or fenced dog area, the vast open spaces and lakeside walks provide plenty to explore. Visitors appreciate the shaded trails, natural beauty, and family-friendly atmosphere, with amenities such as playgrounds, picnic tables, and seasonal restrooms. Be mindful that some areas, particularly the north parking lot, can flood at high tide, and mosquitoes may be present near swampy sections. The park’s lakes offer stunning views, but swimming is typically limited to certain zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at Cheesequake State Park? Yes, dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the park’s trails and picnic areas.
- Are there fenced or off-leash areas for dogs? No, there are currently no fenced or designated off-leash areas for dogs at this park.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features multiple well-marked hiking trails with varying lengths and scenic views, all of which are dog-friendly on a leash.
- Is there ample parking? Yes, the park offers several parking lots, but some areas may get busy or flood during high tide.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, restrooms are available, though their cleanliness and availability may vary by season.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, Cheesequake State Park is open year-round for visitors and their pets.
- Is there shade available on the trails? Yes, many of the park’s hiking trails offer shaded pathways through wooded areas.
Reviews
Cheesequake State Park in Matawan, NJ, is a beautiful place for a walk, with four different trails to choose from, each offering unique views and varying distances.
Campers are welcome, and there’s a restroom at the entrance. We took the Blue Trail, which was lovely – it took us through a swamp and near a lake, with signs warning about birds in the area. This park is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along. With ample parking, you don’t have to worry about finding a spot. I highly recommend exploring this park when you have some free time – it’s perfect for a family outing or a casual hike with friends.
This is our first time camping here. The campsite was amazing. I only gave a one star rating because of the bathrooms. The bathrooms were Unsanitary, disgusting and weren’t maintained. The walls are filthy. We stood here for a few days and only once it smelled like Clorox but with a dirty mop smell. It was so bad. I really hope they look into this because I would love to camp here again. Management can u please power wash your restrooms and hire a better cleaning service.
I’ve been coming here for regularly for almost 30 years with friends and family since it’s the closest state park with campsites and lake for swimming. Campsites are well maintained, have good separation from each site, and tucked away from the visiting crowds. The lake has a concession stand and clean shower rooms. Multiple Hiking trails are well traveled. Make sure you have protection from mosquitoes when hiking the trails near the crabbing bridge/ swampy area. Overall a very good state park.
Hiking Trail Review
Cheesequake Yellow and Blue Loop Trail – 3.6 Miles
The trail is currently free entry. The parking lot was massive so parking was definitely not an issue at this current time. Trail is gorgeous, clean and extremely well marked. The views were very pretty. Trail was not difficult but was fun regardless. As spring progresses and we make our way into summer, I feel like this will be an ideal hiking and swimming location!
Beautiful park, several well kept trails, but not well marked in many spots. I believe there should be more blazers. There are 2 parking lots but only in March and already had to wait for a spot. Restrooms were closed in the 1st week of March and only one was open in the 2nd week. There are playgrounds, picnic areas and it’s very dog friendly.