M
Michael M.
Scout
ScoutTurkey Swamp Park
Water/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
Tent Camping near Gateway National Recreation Area, NJ
Search destinations
Add dates
Tent campsites near Gateway National Recreation Area in New Jersey offer primitive tent camping along the Atlantic coast, with walk-in sites giving direct access to both bay and ocean beaches. Sandy Hook Campground, located within the recreation area, provides primitive tent setups with 20 walk-in sites spread across four loops. The sites require campers to transport their gear approximately a quarter-mile from the parking area, though wheelbarrows are provided to assist with hauling equipment. Staten Island Campground, also part of Gateway National Recreation Area, has limited tent camping options but is noted for its unique urban setting with views of the Narrows Bridge, though it is closed for 2025.
Tent camping at Sandy Hook features basic amenities with each site containing a fire pit and picnic table. Some sites include wooden shelters covering the picnic tables, providing valuable shade and weather protection. The campground has metal storage units (bear boxes) for securing food against raccoons, which are notably aggressive in the area. Flush toilets are available, but there are no showers, electricity, or hookups. A recent review noted, "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite." Water access is limited to two spigots within the campground.
Walk-in tent sites at Sandy Hook provide access to both bay and ocean beaches, though beach parking requires an additional fee beyond the campsite reservation. The proximity to beaches makes this a popular destination during summer months, with weekends experiencing significant traffic throughout the peninsula. A visitor commented, "Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground." Tent campers should be prepared for potential roach infestations, which multiple recent reviewers have cited as a significant issue, particularly at night. The campground's natural setting includes opportunities for birding, biking on flat trails, and exploring historic military buildings and the oldest working lighthouse in the United States.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Gateway National Recreation Area (14)
1. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area
"There are 20 tent sites spread across four loops. There is NO beach access. Some sites have shelters, others do not. Pay attention when reserving. All sites have a fire pit and picnic table."
"Bathrooms are serviceable overall (no showers as others have noted), and the place is intermittently staffed; bring everything you need."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 - $50 / night
2. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025
"You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."
"this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 / night
3. Pleasant Valley Lavender
"So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ"
Check Availabilityfrom $35 - $50 / night
4. NWS Earle RV Park
"Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio."
5. Round Valley State Park Campground
"The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."
"Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light."
6. Tip Tam Camping Resort
"Just from walking around I saw the two pools, an RC track, bocci, shuffle and board. They did have organized activities set up as well."
"It feels like you're camping out in a field with mostly sand around. But having said that, I'd still recommend it for all of the positive they do have."
7. Battle Row Campground
"I have lived 6 miles from this campground for the last 20 years and never knew they had tent sites. The park is clean the bathrooms are well maintained and there is a playground for the kids."
"They have shower and restroom facilities , the showers were amazing and also so clean ! I had such a great stay and this is deffinatly one of my top favorite campgrounds."
Check Availabilityfrom $5 - $60 / night
8. Croton Point Park
"Tent sites are very private with some dirt roads to exit out but thats what make it unique experience! Bathrooms with shower is near by and has plenty porta potties all around."
"Peaceful and gorgeous campsite, with plenty of space between sites. Great view of the Hudson, and playground within sight of our camper."
Check Availabilityfrom $30 - $60 / night
9. Pine Cone Campgrounds
10. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
"Campfires are restricted to certain areas and you have to share. They do have bear boxes available as this is bear country. Very well run campground and cabins. Great Lake to swim."
"I camped on one of the platforms, which was very nice and did not feel crowded even with other people on neighboring platforms. One highlight was having meals cooked by the stellar chef."
Drive Time
- 31 min from New York, NY
- 1 hr 5 min from Trenton, NJ
- 1 hr 18 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 1 hr 21 min from Bridgeport, CT
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Gateway National Recreation Area
24 Photos of 14 Gateway National Recreation Area Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tent Camping Reviews near Gateway National Recreation Area
334 Reviews of 14 Gateway National Recreation Area Campgrounds
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
- JJoyceScout
Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park
Bare bones
No hookups. It was wooded, quiet and dark at night. I used the dump station on my way out. The first time I ever saw a poop fountain. The sewer opening sticks up above ground level. The cover swivels away, so I couldn't put it on top of my hose. And then, when I tried to rinse it, there was nowhere for it to go, because the inlet is elevated.
Tabatta C.ScoutVoorhees State Park Campground
Clean and well maintained!
I spent 4 days and 3 nights with my 6th grade Girl Scouts. We were at sites 23 and 24 which worked out great because they back up against each other. The bathrooms were super clean and well maintained. There are outlets at the bathroom building by the sink to charge any electronics. The playground is adequate and the field is big for playing. There are many things to do close by too like the observatory, Round Valley beach, Grounds for Art, etc. We all really enjoyed ourselves and plan on returning.
- CCarlos E.Scout
Turkey Swamp Park
Really nice campground
Stayed three nights in a tent and enjoyed it very much. Sites have electrical hookups, shared water connections, large picnic table, and fire ring with adjustable grate. Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose. Bathrooms are clean; showers have separate stalls but they’re clustered together (not the most private). There are hiking and biking trails, a lake, and archery park. Staff are friendly. Office is open through 9pm, and firewood, ice, and bait for fishing are available. Site C3 is in an okay spot; it’s close to the bathroom and laundry room, but also right next to the playground. We were able to visit the beach; easy 25 minute drive to Asbury Park.
- AAimee K.
TravelerTurkey Swamp Park
Great Park
Beautiful park and very peaceful. Rangers are super friendly. This is exactly what camping should be.
S G.ScoutMahlon Dickerson Reservation
Primitive
The main issue with the sites was that they were primitive -- no water. The campsites were basically just wooden platforms, with a picnic table and fire pit. There were also a lot of bugs, though this may be due to the rain. The location itself was fairly pretty and there were a number of hiking trails of not-overly-serious difficulty. The particular site we picked left is a little farther from our car than we would have liked, but for other sites you can bring your car closer.
Nicole H.TravelerHeckscher State Park Campground
Beginner Camper Friendly
To start, Andrew was phenomenal. I arrived at 6:40 PM and he was able to hook us up with the last campground and was so patient and friendly when answering our questions. Overall staff was great, I saw someone picking up trash after campers checked out. Bathrooms are clean, 1 mile walk from campgrounds to beach area. Very spider and tick heavy if you don’t stay on the walking trail. Campers were very respectful and friendly, overall an amazing first time camping trip. Paid about $32 for a night. Drinking water on site.
Guide to Gateway National Recreation Area
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Gateway National Recreation Area?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gateway National Recreation Area?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gateway National Recreation Area is Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Gateway National Recreation Area?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Gateway National Recreation Area?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 tent camping locations near Gateway National Recreation Area, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring