Freedom Barks

For dog owners in the New Jersey region, especially those in and around Medford, finding a truly exceptional space for their canine companions is a dream come true. Freedom Barks, located at 98 Old Marlton Pike in Medford, NJ, is widely acclaimed as "Simply the best!" and a "Massive open space dog park for the dogs to run." This isn't just hyperbole; Freedom Barks truly stands out as a premier destination, not only in New Jersey but recognized nationally as one of the top dog parks across the country by USA Today in 2015.

What sets Freedom Barks apart is its sheer scale and the variety of environments it offers. Spanning an impressive 26 acres, it provides "tons of space, lots of streams, lot of trails, endless grass for the dogs to run." This expansive natural setting allows dogs to truly embrace their instincts, exploring diverse terrains from open fields to wooded areas and even enjoying a refreshing dip in cedar creeks. It’s an adventure waiting to happen for any pup.

Beyond the vast natural landscape, Freedom Barks also incorporates structured fun. Visitors highlight the presence of "agility obstacles," providing an extra layer of engagement for energetic dogs and those in training. While the park's original concept embraced open fields with tree lines as natural barriers, recognizing diverse needs, Medford Township also added two new fenced-in dog runs in 2020. One is specifically designed for dogs under 25 lbs, and the other is open to dogs of all sizes, ensuring a safe and controlled environment for all types of play. This thoughtful combination of vast open space, natural elements, and dedicated fenced areas makes Freedom Barks an unparalleled "dog park adventure" for pups and a highly recommended spot for New Jersey locals.

Freedom Barks is conveniently located at 98 Old Marlton Pike, Medford, NJ 08055, USA. This address places it squarely within Medford Township, a desirable community in Burlington County, New Jersey. Its location is a significant advantage for dog owners throughout Southern New Jersey and even attracts visitors from the broader Tri-State area due to its stellar reputation.

The park is nestled within the boundaries of Freedom Park, a larger recreational area. This integration provides a pleasant and accessible setting. Visitors consistently praise the ample nearby parking, which makes it "easy to make this park a regular outing with your canine companions." The well-established infrastructure around Freedom Park ensures straightforward navigation and convenient arrival, even for those new to the area.

While the main 26-acre area of Freedom Barks is largely unfenced, relying on natural tree lines as barriers, its design with open fields and trails offers extensive room for exploration. For those who prefer or require a fully enclosed space, the addition of two fenced-in dog runs in 2020 (one for small dogs under 25 lbs and another for all sizes) significantly enhances accessibility for a wider range of dogs and owner preferences. These runs have their own agility equipment, benches, and waste containers, providing a self-contained experience within the larger park. This combination of vast natural space and secure fenced areas, coupled with easy parking, ensures Freedom Barks is a highly accessible and versatile destination for dog owners across New Jersey.

• Expansive Off-Leash Play Area: Freedom Barks provides a massive 26 acres of open fields, allowing dogs unlimited space to run, chase, and explore off-leash. This core service is ideal for high-energy dogs and those who thrive in vast open spaces.

• Natural Water Access: The park features "cedar creeks for swimming," offering a fantastic service for water-loving dogs to cool off, play, and get wet during warmer months. This natural water feature is a unique amenity not found in many dog parks.

• Extensive Trail System: "Lots of trails" leading "through the woods and along the creek" provide varied environments for dogs and owners to explore. This service allows for longer adventures and provides different sensory experiences for pups beyond just open fields.

• Agility Obstacles: The park includes agility equipment both in the main open area and within the new fenced runs. This service provides stimulating physical challenges and opportunities for training and fun for dogs of all skill levels.

• Dedicated Fenced Dog Runs: As of 2020, Freedom Barks offers two fully fenced-in dog runs. One is designated for dogs under 25 lbs (with 4-foot fencing), and the other is open to dogs of all sizes (with 6-foot fencing). Each run is 30 yards wide by 100 yards long and includes its own agility equipment, benches, and dog waste containers, catering to varying needs for secure off-leash play.

• Waste Management Facilities: Dog waste containers and likely bag dispensers are available throughout the park and within the fenced runs. This essential service helps maintain cleanliness and promotes responsible pet ownership.

• Shaded Seating Areas: The park offers "numerous shaded seating areas" where owners can relax and observe their dogs. Benches are also found within the fenced runs.

• Massive 26-Acre Open Space: The standout feature of Freedom Barks is its colossal size. With 26 acres of open fields, it offers unparalleled freedom for dogs to run, sprint, and play without feeling confined, making it a dream come true for active breeds and playful pups. The "tree line acts as a natural barrier around the fields."

• Natural Water & Woodland Elements: Beyond open fields, the park is rich with natural beauty, boasting "lots of streams" (specifically cedar creeks for swimming) and "wooded trails." This diverse terrain provides endless opportunities for exploration, sniff-fari adventures, and cooling off on warm days.

• Agility Equipment: Freedom Barks goes beyond basic with dedicated agility obstacles available in both the main area and within the fenced runs. This feature provides mental and physical stimulation, allowing dogs to practice jumps, tunnels, and other agility maneuvers.

• Dual Fenced Dog Runs (Added 2020): While the primary area is open, the park now boasts two dedicated, fenced-in runs. One is for small dogs (under 25 lbs) with 4-foot fencing, and the other is for all sizes with 6-foot fencing. Each run is 30x100 yards and includes agility equipment, benches, and waste containers, providing secure options for various dog needs.

• National Recognition: Freedom Barks has garnered significant accolades, being listed by Rover as the #1 dog park in NJ and recognized by USA Today in 2015 as one of the top 10 dog parks across the country. This national acclaim speaks volumes about its quality and unique offerings.

• Volunteer-Supported Maintenance: The park benefits from the dedicated efforts of Freedom Barks, Inc., a volunteer-led nonprofit that works in stewardship with Medford Township to maintain and enhance the park's grounds and amenities. This community involvement ensures the park remains vibrant and well-cared-for.

• Ample Parking: "Plenty of parking" is available nearby, ensuring easy and convenient access for all visitors, even during peak times.

As a public dog park largely supported by Medford Township and the volunteer efforts of Freedom Barks, Inc., Freedom Barks does not typically offer commercial promotions or traditional discounts. Its primary "offer" is the free and expansive access to its exceptional facilities for all responsible dog owners.

However, for locals in New Jersey, there are ongoing "special offers" and benefits that contribute to the park's value:

• Free Access to Nationally Recognized Park: The most significant "offer" is the completely free entry to a dog park that has received national acclaim and is widely considered one of the best in the state. This provides immense value without any direct cost to users.

• Community Recycling Program: Freedom Barks, Inc., in collaboration with Medford's EAAC/Green Team, regularly participates in the NexTrex Plastic Film Recycling Challenge. By collecting 1,000 pounds of plastic film, they earn free TREX park benches. Locals can contribute to this effort by dropping off eligible plastic film at designated locations (e.g., Lower Forge Brewery, Love Thy Nature Refillery, A Wild Bird Oasis in Medford), effectively helping to enhance park amenities.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Freedom Barks, Inc. is a volunteer-led nonprofit that actively seeks community involvement. For those interested in giving back, joining their committee or assisting with maintenance projects (like bridge rebuilding efforts) offers a unique "offer" to directly contribute to and shape this beloved local resource.

• Educational Resources and Etiquette Guidelines: Freedom Barks, Inc. provides pamphlets and online resources promoting proper dog park etiquette and responsible dog ownership. While not a promotion, this "offer" of education helps ensure a safe and positive experience for all park users.

For the most current information on any upcoming community events, park clean-up drives, or specific initiatives like the TREX challenge, locals are encouraged to visit the official Freedom Barks website (www.freedombarks.com) and follow their social media channels (Facebook and Instagram).

Address: 98 Old Marlton Pike, Medford, NJ 08055, USA

As Freedom Barks is a public dog park that operates in stewardship with Medford Township, direct contact information for the dog park itself is not typically provided beyond its physical address. For inquiries, concerns, or feedback regarding Freedom Barks, local New Jersey residents should primarily use the contact channels established by Freedom Barks, Inc., the volunteer non-profit that assists with its maintenance and operations, or the Medford Township authorities.

Primary Contact Information:

• Email: freedombarksdogpark@gmail.com (This is the email address for Freedom Barks, Inc., for general inquiries, joining their contact list, volunteering, or donations).

For official rules, guidelines, or to report incidents that require police involvement (e.g., aggressive dog behavior, serious violations of town ordinances), please refer to Medford Township's guidelines:

• Medford Township's General Guidelines and Rules on the use of Freedom Barks Dog Park (including the fenced-in dog runs) are available on the Freedom Barks website (www.freedombarks.com) under the "About" section.

• Medford Police Department: (609) 267-8300 (for reporting incidents, aggressive behaviors, or serious violations).

• Confidential Tip Line: (609) 714-0302 (for confidential incident reporting).

It is highly recommended to visit the official Freedom Barks website (www.freedombarks.com) for the most current information regarding park rules, updates on amenities (like bridge repairs or ongoing recycling challenges), and to learn how to get involved with the volunteer efforts that maintain this exceptional park. For any questions about Medford Township's administrative codes regarding dogs, their official municipal website would be the appropriate resource.

For dog owners throughout New Jersey, especially those in Medford and the surrounding Southern New Jersey region, Freedom Barks stands as an overwhelmingly suitable and truly exceptional local resource. Its unique blend of vast open spaces, natural elements, and thoughtful amenities caters to a wide spectrum of canine needs and owner preferences, making it an indispensable part of the local pet community.

The most compelling reason for its suitability is its sheer size and natural diversity. With 26 acres of open fields, wooded trails, and natural streams, Freedom Barks offers an unparalleled sense of freedom for dogs to run, explore, and swim. This expansive environment allows for full-body exercise and mental stimulation that goes far beyond what typical urban dog parks can provide, making it ideal for high-energy breeds and adventurous pups. For New Jersey locals, it’s a readily accessible slice of nature where their dogs can truly thrive.

Furthermore, the park's strategic inclusion of agility obstacles and the addition of two new fenced-in dog runs (one for small dogs and one for all sizes) demonstrates a commitment to accommodating diverse needs. This ensures that even dogs requiring a fully enclosed space or specific training opportunities are well-catered for within the same beloved park. This versatility makes Freedom Barks suitable for nearly every dog and owner combination, from those seeking a leisurely stroll to those desiring intense training sessions.

The national recognition Freedom Barks has received, being named among the top dog parks in the country, underscores its exceptional quality and the dedication behind its upkeep. This, combined with the active volunteer group, Freedom Barks, Inc., which works tirelessly to maintain and enhance the park, creates a vibrant and well-cared-for environment. For locals, this means consistent access to a world-class facility that continuously strives for improvement, supported by a passionate community.

In essence, Freedom Barks is more than just a dog park; it's a vast, dynamic, and community-supported natural playground that truly enhances the quality of life for New Jersey's dog-owning residents. Its unique combination of freedom, features, and fantastic natural elements firmly establishes it as the premier destination for pups and their people in the region.