At Gateway National Recreation Area, the visitor centers are open on Saturdays and Sundays. The Ryan Visitor Center is open from 9 am to 12 pm, while the Fort Wadsworth, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, and Sandy Hook Visitor Centers are open from 10 am to 4 pm.
There are no entrance fees for Gateway National Recreation Area. However, there is a charge for beach parking from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day at Jacob Riis Park and Sandy Hook.
From New York City, take the Verrazano Bridge to the Garden State Parkway, exiting at 105 for a scenic drive along the Jersey Shore to this coastal haven.
At Gateway National Recreation Area, beach parking costs $20/day or $100/season for most vehicles, $50/day or $200/season for oversized vehicles over 20 feet. No overnight parking. Free lots available for non-beach activities. Discounts for America the Beautiful pass holders and military personnel.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Gateway National Recreation Area, spanning 26,607 acres across New York City and Monmouth County, New Jersey, is a serene oasis amidst one of the country’s most urbanized landscapes. This protected landscape, established in 1972, offers a diverse array of natural and cultural treasures that invite exploration and enchantment.
From the pristine beaches of Sandy Hook to the historic structures of Fort Hancock, the area is a tapestry of ecosystems, including grasslands, woodlands, and sandy shores. The Sandy Hook Unit, with its oldest continuing working lighthouse, serves as a beacon for those drawn to the sea and its rich history. Here, visitors can engage in hiking, birding, kayaking, and camping, immersing themselves in the vibrant wildlife that calls this place home.
Seasonal changes paint the landscape with vivid colors; spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer warmed beaches and buzzing with life, autumn hues of golden leaves, and winter’s serene quiet. The Jamaica Bay and Staten Island Units in New York add to the park’s allure, offering ranger-led nature walks and bird-watching tours that highlight the area’s unique avifauna.
Summer days are enlivened by living history demonstrations and historic tours, while evenings might feature concerts on the beach or stargazing under the clear night sky. For those seeking adventure, local outfitters provide kayaks and bicycles, allowing visitors to explore the park’s extensive trails and waterways.
Despite its urban proximity, Gateway National Recreation Area remains a haven for wildlife, including the Tawny Field Cockroach, an important food source for local birds. This blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities makes Gateway a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience just beyond the city’s edge.
- Area (mi²)
- 43
- Annual visitors
- 9 000 000
- Established year
- 1972
Top 3 Facts about Gateway National Recreation Area
This area is home to more than 330 species of birds and 71 species of butterflies, making it a significant stopover for seasonal migrations.
In this urban oasis, over 325 bird species, including American Oystercatchers and Ospreys, thrive alongside Eastern Gray Tree Frogs and Diamondback Terrapins. Harbor Seals and White-Tailed Deer inhabit the shores, while Monarch Butterflies and Eastern Tent Caterpillars add a touch of elegance to the holly forests and coastal uplands. Here, nature’s diversity is a testament to the resilience of life in the heart of the metropolitan landscape.
Along the shores of this coastal retreat, the waters of the Jamaica Bay and the Atlantic Ocean blend in a kaleidoscope of blues, from the deep navy of the open sea to the pale turquoise of the bay’s shallower waters. The landscape is dotted with maritime forests, such as the Sandy Hook Maritime Forest, and expansive beaches that stretch along the shoreline, offering a serene escape from the urban bustle. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature’s splendor, with scenic views and diverse ecosystems that thrive in this unique environment.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in summer to explore historic sites and beaches. Use public transport or ferries to get there. Check visitor centers for updates, and pack meals as options are limited. Be prepared for varied terrain and rest stops. Enjoy the summer concert series at Sandy Hook.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof bag. Bring a map, first aid kit, and hydration system. For longer stays, include camping gear and bear-resistant containers. Don’t forget sun protection and a headlamp for evening explorations. Check the season for specific necessities.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife: 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals. Never feed or touch them. Obey speed limits, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are most active. Properly dispose of trash to preserve their habitat. Respect their space and let them roam freely.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water edges, and check weather conditions and park alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities. Exercise caution around wildlife and follow all signs and advisories.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, blooms of wildflowers paint the landscape. Join the Spring Wildflowers of Floyd Bennett Field in April or the Butterfly BioBlitz in late April to immerse yourself in nature’s rebirth. Mild weather makes it an ideal time to explore.
Summer brings warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and vibrant activities. Enjoy guided kayak tours, birding, and swimming at lifeguarded beaches. Don’t miss the Junior Ranger Day in July, a highlight of the season’s diverse events. Be prepared for occasional cockroach encounters, but revel in the rich history and outdoor adventures amidst sunny weather.
Experience autumn’s crisp temperatures (50s-60s°F) and mild weather from September to November. Enjoy the Butterfly BioBlitz, a seasonal highlight, amidst vibrant foliage, beaches, and historic landscapes. Ideal for biking, nature walks, and scenic lighthouse climbs. Perfect for a serene and immersive fall getaway.
Experience winter wonder from December to February, with temperatures often in the 30s and 40s. Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding on pristine snow-covered trails, making for a serene and invigorating winter escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Gateway National Recreation Area has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Gateway National Recreation Area is New York City, as the recreation area extends through three of its boroughs and into nearby Monmouth County, New Jersey.
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For a family-friendly hike, the Jamaica Bay Unit Loop or the trails at Sandy Hook, such as the Old Dune Trail and South Beach Dune Trail, are good options. These trails are relatively easy and offer scenic views and accessible paths suitable for kids.
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Dogs are not allowed on ocean-side beaches, but they can be on leashes at bay-side beaches like Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove. From March 15 to September 15, dogs are not permitted on any beaches in the Jamaica Bay and Sandy Hook units due to piping plover season. They are also not allowed in campgrounds or the swimming beach at Great Kills Park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
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There are parking fees from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day for beach parking, which cost $20 per day or $100 per season. These fees apply to all vehicles, regardless of size. No fees are charged for walking, biking, or being dropped off.
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Yes, guided tours are available, led by rangers, volunteers, and partners throughout the year. These programs include walking tours of Fort Hancock and Fort Wadsworth, among other activities. Registrations are required for most programs, and schedules can be found on the National Park Service’s calendar.