Gateway National Recreation Area
History House at Sandy Hook Closed to the Public — The History House at Sandy Hook will be closed for maintenance from Monday August 17 through Friday August 21, 2026.
Dead Horse Bay (Brooklyn) Remains Closed to the Public — The entire southern area of Dead Horse Bay, including Glass Bottle Beach, is closed to the public. Dead Horse Bay is located in Brooklyn, NYC.
Spring Creek (Queens) Closed to the Public — Spring Creek is closed to the public at this time. The NPS is conducting field investigations as part of a Remedial Investigation at the site. Spring Creek is located in Queens, NYC. Details ↗
Jacob Riis Park Access Restrictions — Due to extremely hazardous conditions Gateway National Recreation Area has restricted access to sections of Jacob Riis Park. Erosion has created unsafe conditions from Bays 1-5, and portions of the eastern beach are closed. Details ↗
North Beach Tip at Sandy Hook closed — North Beach Tip at Sandy Hook is closed to access until further notice due to nesting bird activity. Details ↗
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center Phone Out of Order — The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center phone line (718-318-4340) is not working at this time. Please monitor social media (Instagram and Facebook) or contact our general park information line at 718-354-4606 or Gateway_feedback@nps.gov for program or other park updates. F
Ryan Visitor Center Phone Line Out of Service — The Floyd Bennett Field Ryan Visitor Center phone line (718-338-3799) is out of service. For information on ranger programs in the Jamaica Bay Unit, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340. For questions about permits, events, or other park information
Dogs Not allowed on ocean beaches in Jamaica Bay and Sandy Hook March 15- Sept. 15 — Dogs are not allowed on ocean beaches at Sandy Hook between March 15 through September 15. Dogs are not allowed on the ocean beaches at Jacob Riis Park, Fort Tilden, Breezy Point Tip and at the bayside of Breezy Point between March 15 through September 15 Details ↗
Source: US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.
Introduction
Gateway National Recreation Area is a unique urban national park located in New York, established in 1972. It encompasses diverse landscapes, including beaches, wetlands, and historic sites, offering a respite from city life. Visitors come to enjoy outdoor activities, learn about local ecosystems, and explore the area's rich history.
The park is divided into four units: Jamaica Bay, Breezy Point, Staten Island, and Sandy Hook. Each unit provides distinct experiences, from bird watching at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge to beach activities at Sandy Hook. The park's accessibility and variety make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
In pictures
Things to know
Good to know
Photo: NPS Photo