Tent camping near Gateway National Recreation Area provides urban wilderness access on the Atlantic coast. The area sits at sea level with mild temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak summer camping season. Facilities range from basic walk-in tent sites to cabins, with mosquitoes typically most active from July through September.
What to Do
Beach activities: At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, campers enjoy both bay and ocean swimming. "Very reasonable rates to pitch a tent. You get a private space with a fire pit. Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people," notes reviewer Stanley S.
Military history exploration: Visitors can explore historic military installations throughout the recreation area. Susan B. describes her experience: "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes."
Bike rides: Several flat trails offer cycling opportunities throughout Gateway. "Sandy Hook has all the necessities you need, bathroom, shower, and the occasional food truck. There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride," writes Maggie A.
NYC ferry access: Take boat transportation from Manhattan to the recreation area. As Lindsey M. notes about Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area: "Great visit to this Brooklyn Campsite! The site was clean and accommodating. Great way to escape the city for a night if you can't make it upstate!"
What Campers Like
Urban-wilderness contrast: Gateway offers a unique camping experience with metropolitan views. Phillip L. explains: "This campground is amazing. You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a night light."
Variety of site layouts: Many Sandy Hook sites feature different configurations. Andi L. notes, "Our crew was quite at home here. It rained on every campsite except ours. The land loves us and we love the land. #leavenotrace."
Budget-friendly option: Gateway provides affordable camping near NYC. According to Jill R., "this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY... when it comes to sleeping near the city on a budget, this place will most likely work."
Morning beach access: Round Valley State Park Campground offers lakefront sites with early-morning swimming access. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," says James R.
What You Should Know
Campsite availability: Gateway camping sites fill quickly during summer months. "The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast. I came at 5 in the morning and there was already a family there," notes a Staten Island camper.
Wildlife considerations: Raccoons are common throughout Gateway. Christy K. explains Sandy Hook challenges: "There are some quirks to this campgrounds: No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends! No outside wood is permitted - but you can buy some in the store (cash only)."
Transport logistics: Plan for gear transportation at walk-in sites. Craig M. details: "Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite. Some of the sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table."
Urban noise levels: Croton Point Park offers tent camping with some metropolitan sound impacts: "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet," advises Jonathan C.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for playground access: Several campgrounds feature kid-friendly play areas. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, "The place was fun... they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," reports Jenn M.
Consider beach proximity: Waterfront access provides built-in entertainment. A Battle Row reviewer explains: "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit. There are lots of RVs but not close to tent sites."
Bring beach toys: Sand is prevalent at coastal Gateway sites. Plan activities accordingly since "If you like sandy camping and want something 1 hr or so outside NYC, this is a great spot," as one Sandy Hook camper notes.
Pack noise protection: Urban camping often means ambient sounds. At Croton Point, a camper advises: "Because it was on a point on the Hudson, I had hoped for views from the campground but there were too many trees to see the water."
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Battle Row Campground offers water connections for basic needs. "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean. They have shower and restroom facilities, the showers were amazing and also so clean!" reports Lexis N.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites at many Gateway-adjacent campgrounds are placed close together. "All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," notes a Croton Point Park visitor.
Maintenance awareness: Monitor campground upkeep when booking. At Pine Cone Campgrounds, a visitor observed: "The campsite falls short in terms of its bathroom facilities. The stall doors are quite small and lack privacy, which can be a discomfort for many guests. Moreover, only one stall has a functioning lock."
