Destination Wild

Overview

There's no other campground in the world where a family can sleep under the stars, tour the Statue of Liberty, watch a Broadway musical and kayak in one of the world's premier bird migration sanctuaries-all in one trip. Camp Gateway provides a tranquil outdoor experience right outside the nation's most lively and iconic metropolis- New York City.

Located in Floyd Bennet Field in Brooklyn, New York, the campground offers an outdoor escape for hiking, biking, birding and historic tours of airports and forts.Ranger-led programs are available all summer.

Recreation

History buffs can visit Civil War-era forts, restored historic aircraft or Nike missile sites. Nature lovers can stroll wooded paths, watch for birds and horseshoe crabs or simply relax. Horseback riding, kayaking and archery are also options.

Facilities

Natural Features

Gateway National Recreation Area exists within one of the most urbanized areas of the country, covering 26,000 acres of New Jersey and three New York City boroughs. Among the urban environment, the park boasts grasslands, woodlands, sand dunes, beaches, ponds, salt marshes and forests. Camp Gateway is in the woodland habitat of Floyd Bennet Field.

Nearby Attractions

Biking trails weave through Fort Tilden, with a military history that dates back to the War of 1812.

Birders should try the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge with 300 species of migratory birds, with willets and green herons in spring and summer, or osprey and black crowned night herons year-round.

If the big city beckons, head to Riis Landing for seasonal ferry rides to Manhattan. Call for information.