National Recreation Area · New York, New Jersey
Gateway National Recreation Area
Spanning 27,000 acres from Sandy Hook in New Jersey to Breezy Point in New York City, the park is both the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, and the gateway to the National Park Service for millions of visitors every year. Gateway offers green spaces and beaches alongside historic structures and cultural landscapes. Every day, Gateway is open for you to explore, envision, and enjoy!
Things to do
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Guided Tours
- Paddling
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Saltwater Swimming
Weather & when to go
Gateway National Recreation Area includes several separate land areas spread throughout the New York metropolitan area. The New York area experiences four distinct seasons. Temperatures are moderate in the spring and fall, but range from the high 90's during the summer to snow and sleet in winter.
Operating hours
Jamaica Bay Unit hours
Includes Bergen Beach, Floyd Bennett Field, Fort Tilden, Frank Charles Park, Hamilton Beach, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Canarsie Pier, Jacob Riis Park, North Channel Bridge, Plumb Beach and Spring Creek.
Sandy Hook hours
Sandy Hook is open from 6 am to 9 pm.
Staten Island hours
The Staten Island unit includes Fort Wadsworth, Great Kills and Miller Field. The park is open from 6 am to 9 pm.
Campgrounds
Sandy Hook Camp Ground
Fort Wadsworth Campsite
FAQ
- Is Gateway National Recreation Area free to visit?
- Gateway National Recreation Area does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Gateway National Recreation Area?
- Includes Bergen Beach, Floyd Bennett Field, Fort Tilden, Frank Charles Park, Hamilton Beach, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Canarsie Pier, Jacob Riis Park, North Channel Bridge, Plumb Beach and Spring Creek.
- Do I need a reservation for Gateway National Recreation Area?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Gateway National Recreation Area. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Related guides
Trip plans and deep-dives from the PeepTrip blog featuring Gateway National Recreation Area.
Keep exploring
More parks in New York, New Jersey.