Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook
4.3992 reviewsCamp Gateway - Sandy Hook, 26 Hudson Road, Highlands, NJ 07732, USA
Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook
$30.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent-only nonelectric sites range from $30 to $50 per night during peak season between May and July. Fees do not include taxes or other charges.
About this campground
Escape the urban hustle at Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook, where tent camping meets coastal adventure in the heart of Gateway National Recreation Area. This car-free sanctuary invites you to pitch your tent just moments from pristine Atlantic beaches and the storied walls of Fort Hancock. By day, explore miles of bike paths, cast a line into the surf, or paddle through tranquil waters. As evening falls, gather around your fire ring with fellow campers, sharing stories under stars surprisingly bright for being so close to the city. With secure food storage lockers and picnic tables at each site, this pedestrian-only paradise offers all the essentials for an unforgettable coastal camping experience—just remember to leave your car at the designated parking area and your pets at home.
The campground is dedicated to tent-only camping, with no provisions for RVs, car camping, or permanent lodging. It accommodates small groups and emphasizes simplicity and self-sufficiency in its offerings.
Historical SignificanceStep through time at Sandy Hook, where military history and maritime heritage converge on this strategic peninsula. Fort Hancock stands as a sentinel of America's coastal defense system, its preserved buildings and gun batteries telling stories of vigilant soldiers who once scanned the horizon for threats. Rising above it all, the nation's oldest working lighthouse has guided mariners since the colonial era, its beacon a constant through centuries of change. Just beyond camp, the Twin Lights Historic Site offers panoramic views that once helped spot approaching ships, while Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook provides a breathtaking vantage point to appreciate how this narrow strip of land has shaped regional history. The Sandy Hook Proving Ground National Historic Landmark adds another layer to this military legacy, where innovations in coastal artillery once echoed across the dunes.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit to catch Sandy Hook at its finest during late spring and summer, when warm breezes carry the salt air and long days invite endless exploration. Summer brings balmy temperatures perfect for beach activities, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, offering dramatic skies and refreshing breaks from the heat. As autumn arrives, crisp air and smaller crowds create ideal conditions for hiking and historical exploration. Winter transforms the peninsula into a quiet retreat, with cold temperatures and occasional snow dusting the dunes—a stark contrast to summer's vibrant energy. The shoulder seasons offer surprisingly dry conditions, making them perfect for those seeking solitude without sacrificing comfort.
ElevationThis coastal campground sits at sea level, offering easy access to beaches and gentle terrain perfect for cyclists and casual explorers of all ages.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover an unexpected oasis where nature thrives against the backdrop of distant city skylines. Camp Gateway places you at the intersection of diverse ecosystems rarely found in such proximity to urban areas. Wake to the sound of waves lapping against seven miles of pristine beaches, then venture inland through maritime forests where migrating warblers rest in spring and fall. Wind-sculpted dunes give way to tranquil salt marshes teeming with herons and egrets, while hidden ponds reflect the sky and shelter rare amphibians. This remarkable peninsula serves as both a crucial stopover on the Atlantic Flyway and a year-round home to everything from horseshoe crabs to harbor seals, proving that wilderness can flourish even in the shadow of the nation's largest metropolis.
Geological RegionSandy Hook represents nature's resilience in one of America's most densely populated corridors, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the urban landscapes of New Jersey and New York. This dynamic peninsula showcases the powerful forces that shape our coastline—constantly resculpted by storms, tides, and currents that deposit sand from distant shores. Here, barrier island ecology creates a fascinating mosaic of habitats: windswept beaches transition to protective dunes, which shelter maritime forests and freshwater wetlands. Salt marshes filter runoff from the mainland while providing nurseries for marine life. This geological wonderland exists as part of the larger Gateway National Recreation Area, a testament to the importance of preserving natural spaces where millions can experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic coast without traveling far from home.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include flush toilets, picnic tables, grills, and parking areas. No specific details about ADA compliance or additional accommodations are provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as standard-sized, with enough space for tents and basic camping equipment.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are relatively close together, lacking a high degree of privacy, which is noted in some user reviews.
Total Campsites66 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the Bay for scenic views, such as A01 and B09. Sites in loops like Endicott (e.g., E17) offer larger spaces but may share amenities like pavilions.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated campsites include A01, B10, D15, and E17 for their proximity to water features and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
10:00 AM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 consecutive nights between April 1 and October 15.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The maximum number of guests per site is not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, including Beach Plum, Dune Grass, Endicott, Cannonball, and Ajax. Sites are spaced apart but often share amenities like pavilions.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9 to July 13 during peak season. Non-reservable periods may apply before and after these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific walk-up information is provided, but advance reservations are encouraged.
Cancellation PolicyStandard cancellation policy includes a $10 service fee and forfeiture of the first night's use fee for late cancellations. Refunds must be requested no later than 14 days after departure.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A plethora of recreational activities are available, including hiking, biking, birding, kayaking, swimming, fishing, picnicking, and cultural programs. Visitors can also engage in windsurfing, kiteboarding, and historical exploration at Sandy Hook's historic landmarks like the lighthouse and Fort Hancock.
Hiking
Hiking trails originate at the Sandy Hook Visitor Center and Area M near Nine Gun Battery. Visitors can walk ocean beaches outside of shorebird nesting season. Trails vary in difficulty and scenery, offering views of salt marshes and dunes.Fishing
Surf fishing is permitted at all beaches except during lifeguard hours. Popular locations include Fishing Beach and the 'M' Lot. Seasonal closures may occur to protect endangered nesting shorebirds.Swimming
Swimming is supported at five ocean beaches guarded by lifeguards from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Visitors are advised to stick to guarded beaches for safety.Biking
The seven-mile multi-use path runs from the park entrance to Fort Hancock, shared among walkers, bicyclists, and in-line skaters. Bike rentals are available during summer.Boating
Non-motorized, car-top boats can be launched from Beach Area C and Horseshoe Cove. Surfing, windsurfing, and kite-boarding are available on designated beaches.Wildlife viewing
Prime birding spots include Plum Island, Spermaceti Cove boardwalk, Horseshoe Cove salt marsh, and North Pond. Common wildlife sightings include raccoons, foxes, deer, and diverse bird species.Beach activities
Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, surfing, kiteboarding, and picnics on Sandy Hook’s beaches. Seasonal restrictions apply to protect nesting shorebirds.Cultural and Educational Programs
Seasonal ranger-led programs and lighthouse tours provide historical and cultural insights. The lighthouse tours require participants to be at least 48 inches tall.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned for the campground.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and surfing are available on designated beaches.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated fire rings only. Firewood must be purchased onsite; bringing outside wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM daily.
Hazards
General hazardsTawny Field Cockroaches are prevalent during late summer and early fall. Raccoons and foxes are common and can pose challenges if food is not properly stored. Poison ivy and ticks may be present during warmer months.
Active alertsOngoing efforts to control woodroach infestations are underway. Campground closures may occur during periods of high infestation.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include the local ranger station onsite, and additional services in Highlands, NJ, which is approximately 3 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9, 2025, to July 13, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling details or pickup schedules are not specified.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the bay and ocean beaches. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular activities. Nearby Horseshoe Cove offers tranquil boating experiences.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include woodroach infestations, lack of showers, and limited parking. Some visitors find the walk from parking to campsites inconvenient, especially in hot weather.
HostRangers are frequently mentioned as helpful and professional, providing guidance and resolving issues promptly.
Campground Map
Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook, 26 Hudson Road, Highlands, NJ 07732, USA
Driving directionsFrom North Jersey and New York: South on the New Jersey Turnpike, Exit 11 onto the Garden State Parkway (South), Exit 117 (Keyport/Hazlet). After toll, bear left and follow Route 36 East 12 miles to park entrance (after crossing the Highlands Bridge). Stay right to enter the park. From South Jersey: North on Garden State Parkway, Exit 105 (Eatontown), bear left for Route 36 East. Continue on Route 36 East, pass Monmouth Mall and across Route 35 through Eatontown and Long Branch. Continue on Route 36, which turns left and follows north along ocean. North for six miles through Long Branch, Monmouth Beach, and Sea Bright to park. From Philadelphia & Camden, New Jersey: New Jersey Turnpike north to Exit 7A (Shore Points) onto I-195, East on I-195 to Garden State Parkway north, GSP north to Exit 105 (Eatontown). Then follow directions from South Jersey.
The campground has good accessibility from major roads, with exits from multiple highways including the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway. Seasonal closures or navigation challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
Highlands (3 miles, 10 minutes), Atlantic Highlands (7 miles, 15 minutes), Long Branch (6 miles, 12 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies are located in Highlands, NJ, 3 miles away, with additional options in Atlantic Highlands and Long Branch.
Camper Reviews
4.4
92 reviews
Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook's reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative sentiments. The campground offers a unique blend of history and proximity to nature, but recurring issues like roach infestations and limited amenities (e.g., lack of showers) are raised frequently. Despite these challenges, many users praise its scenic location and the helpfulness of rangers.
Review Summaries
Based on 92 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the scenic atmosphere, clean facilities, proximity to beaches and historical landmarks, and friendly ranger staff. Activities such as birding, biking, and kayaking contribute to...
Based on 92 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include cockroach infestations, raccoon overpopulation, insufficient privacy, and the absence of showers. Some users reported difficulties with parking and campsite accessibility,...
Based on 92 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing bicycles for convenient transportation, using raccoon-proof storage lockers, and arriving early to secure carts for transporting camping gear. One camper advises, 'Be aware...
Based on 92 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular camping season but also brings challenges such as high bug activity and lack of shade at certain sites. Winter reviews focus on the quieter atmosphere and historical...
Based on 92 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The sunsets are amazing. If you can, bring bikes as Sandy Hook is extremely bike friendly.' (July 18, 2023) 2. 'Camping at Sandy Hook at least a dozen times over the last five years... There is...
Based on 92 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site E20 is frequently mentioned for its larger size but close proximity to other sites. Users also highlighted site D13 for its shady lean-to feature and abundant wildlife encounters. Negative...
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Accessibility Features
Reviews note that accessible campsites are available, though some users raise concerns about the accuracy of reservation systems showing availability. One camper stated, 'Reservations showed as...
Based on 92 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook, as stated in official descriptions.
Based on 92 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025