Gateway National Recreation Area

A 26,000 acre park spanning areas of Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island and Monmouth County, New Jersey

Gateway National Recreation Area was added to the National Park System in 1972, and was heralded as a breakthrough in recreation planning. Located in the heart of urban America, Gateway's 11 park sites bring national park programs closer to people. They encompass more than 26,000 acres of land and water in New York City and New Jersey and welcome almost 10 million visitors annually.

The park offers an array of recreational and educational programming throughout the year—especially during the summer—perfect for lovers of nature, history, and outdoor recreation. Its many unique hands-on programs for individuals, children, school groups, and families bring history and ecology to life. Program offerings include ecology walks, kayak and canoeing trips, history tours, lectures, and urban camping, to name a few. The park caters to all types of visitors, from first-timers to seasoned experts, and is accessible to all—even those looking to simply relax on a beach. Gateway National Recreation Area is a don't-miss destination for residents and visitors alike.

Gateway Park Sites

Visit the pages of the individual Gateway sites for more information:

Brooklyn
Canarsie Pier | Floyd Bennett Field | Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Queens
Breezy Point | Fort Tilden | Jacob Riis Park

Staten Island
Fort Wadsworth | Great Kills Park | Miller Field

Monmouth County, New Jersey
Fort Hancock | Sandy Hook

Things to Do

Girls playing on beach at Sandy Hook
Sandy Hook Lighthouse

Activities

Ocean swimming, birding, nature walks, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, jogging, biking, camping, astronomy, fishing, concerts, sporting tournaments, lectures and other special events. For particulars, consult the individual Gateway sites.