Cheesequake State Park Trailhead - Matawan, NJ
Cheesequake State Park Trailhead: A Dog-Friendly Park in Matawan, New Jersey
Cheesequake State Park Trailhead is a popular destination in Matawan, New Jersey, known for its scenic, pet-friendly hiking and biking trails. This park stands out for its shaded, mostly flat paths, making it a comfortable spot for both casual dog walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. The trails wind through beautiful landscapes, including swamps with Eastern Redcedar, open fields, and picturesque views that are especially lovely during the fall and winter months. It’s a great spot to enjoy the fresh air, birdwatching, and even mountain biking, with easy access to the famous Henry Hudson Trail.
Cheesequake offers amenities like a convenient parking area, a newly upgraded playground, picnic and BBQ spots, and a peaceful environment ideal for both dog owners and families. While the main field area is open and loved by dogs for exploring on-leash, there isn’t a dedicated or fenced off-leash dog run, so all pups should be kept leashed. Summertime access may require a small fee, but other seasons are free. With its blend of natural beauty and community feel, Cheesequake State Park Trailhead is a must-visit dog-friendly spot in Matawan, New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must be kept on leash while at Cheesequake State Park Trailhead, as there is no designated off-leash dog area.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are multiple pet-friendly trails of varying lengths, including access to the Henry Hudson Trail and several scenic hiking paths.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a newly improved playground, although some reviews mention maintenance concerns, and other recreation areas like ball fields are available.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Many trails and field areas are well-shaded, making summer visits more comfortable.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? There is a small fee during the summer season, while access is typically free during other times of the year.
- Is parking available? Yes, there is convenient parking at the trailhead, popular with visitors starting biking or walking routes.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Bug presence, especially mosquitoes, can be an issue during summer, so wearing repellant is recommended.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, there’s a barbecue and picnic area available for visitors to enjoy.
Reviews
One of my top 3 NJ State Parks. 4 trails for hiking, one for mountain bikes. Fishing, crabbing, camping w/flush toilets and showers nearby, playgrounds, swimming etc. Interpretive center just off the red/blue trail or you can drive to it via the paved road to the left of the trailhead. Perrine pond is a great spot for early morning birding.
One of my top 3 NJ State Parks. 4 trails for hiking, one for mountain bikes. Fishing, crabbing, camping w/flush toilets and showers nearby, playgrounds, swimming etc. Interpretive center just off the red/blue trail or you can drive to it via the paved road to the left of the trailhead. Perrine pond is a great spot for early morning birding.
Great place for a nature walk. Be ready for bugs in the summer (long sleeves/pants recommended). The whole place is bursting with life, including some interesting fungi (see photos). There are a number of low-lying areas where the trail becomes a creek during heavy rain; be aware of the weather.
Fall and winter walks also are nice here.
For a tad longer walk perhaps with less company, try the Green Trail (~3 mi). Passes through an interesting swamp with Eastern Redcedar. All the trail options are enjoyable, though.
Summertime there is a fee (NULL when I went). Other seasons have been free (at least when I went). I think this is mostly driven by whether the lake/bathhouse are open.
Great place for a nature walk. Be ready for bugs in the summer (long sleeves/pants recommended). The whole place is bursting with life, including some interesting fungi (see photos). There are a number of low-lying areas where the trail becomes a creek during heavy rain; be aware of the weather.
Fall and winter walks also are nice here.
For a tad longer walk perhaps with less company, try the Green Trail (~3 mi). Passes through an interesting swamp with Eastern Redcedar. All the trail options are enjoyable, though.
Summertime there is a fee (NULL when I went). Other seasons have been free (at least when I went). I think this is mostly driven by whether the lake/bathhouse are open.
Very nice trail for a light hike alone or in a group
Very nice trail for a light hike alone or in a group
We chose this place for two days in a row, and it felt really good to experience it for two days ~ It’s a good hiking area with new roads and clear road signs ~ It’s suitable for parent-child or family trips or inviting friends together ~ It’s really good ~ There is also a barbecue area and a picnic area ~
We chose this place for two days in a row, and it felt really good to experience it for two days ~ It’s a good hiking area with new roads and clear road signs ~ It’s suitable for parent-child or family trips or inviting friends together ~ It’s really good ~ There is also a barbecue area and a picnic area ~
Peaceful trail… moderate effort with a number of roots, uphill portions, stairs, and terrain varying from dry to sand … you may need to be patient for parking on weekend afternoons
Peaceful trail… moderate effort with a number of roots, uphill portions, stairs, and terrain varying from dry to sand … you may need to be patient for parking on weekend afternoons