Rules & Regulations

At Cheesequake State Park, dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet and under control, and owners must clean up after them. Alcohol, ATVs and drones are not permitted, and state law bans smoking and vaping in state parks; NJDEP's 2026 park map allows it only inside your own vehicle. There are no trash cans, so everything you bring in goes home with you. Bikes are allowed only on the White Trail, swimming only while lifeguards are on duty, and hunting only by special deer permit.

Dogs and Pets

• Pets must always be on a leash no longer than six feet, and under the owner's control.
• Clean up after your pet and take the waste with you.
• Pet-friendly campsites are available for $5 per pet per night; rabies vaccinations are required (Camping).

Alcohol, Smoking and Vaping

• Alcohol: not permitted in New Jersey state parks, forests, recreation areas or natural areas (N.J.A.C. 7:2-2.6).
• Smoking and vaping: state law prohibits tobacco smoking and electronic smoking devices in all state parks (P.L. 2005, c.383). NJDEP's 2026 park map adds that it is permitted only inside your personal vehicle.

Vehicles, Bikes and Drones

• ATVs: not allowed anywhere on New Jersey State Parks property (N.J.A.C. 7:2-3.4(d)).
• Drones: listed as not permitted on NJDEP's 2026 park map.
• Bikes: the White Trail is the only trail open to bicycles; the Green, Blue, Red and Yellow Trails are hiking only (Hiking).
• Big vehicles: an 11-foot height limit for the camping area; no RVs or trailers at group campsites; no vehicles on the grass.

Water Rules

• Swimming only while lifeguards are on duty, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day; no tubes, rafts or floats, only Coast Guard approved life jackets (Swimming).
• Boats on Hooks Creek Lake: cartop boats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, electric motors only, a Coast Guard approved life jacket for every person (Hooks Creek Lake).

Trash: Carry In, Carry Out

There are no trash receptacles in the park. NJDEP asks you to bring a bag or two for trash, recycling and pet waste and take it all home.

Trails

Stay on marked trails, and don't alter trail markings in any way. Report trail problems to the park office at 732-566-2161.

Hunting

Hunters may apply for a special permit for deer hunting under NJDEP's Deer Management Plan. There is no other hunting listed for the park.

Wildlife and Safety

• Bears: black bears are found throughout New Jersey. Don't approach a bear or leave food out; feeding bears is dangerous and illegal. Never run from a bear. Report an aggressive bear at 1-877-WARN-DEP (1-877-927-6337).
• Ticks: use repellent, wear light colors, tuck pants into socks, stay on the trails, and shower and wash your clothes when you get home.
• Emergencies: call 911 or 1-877-WARN-DEP.

Events and Commercial Use

Organized events and commercial activities, such as races, festivals, commercial photography and filming, need an NJ State Parks Special Use Permit. Bus groups need a reservation and come only on Wednesday to Friday (Plan Your Visit).