Camp Gateway- Brooklyn Ny
4.0033 reviewsFloyd Bennett Field, RYAN VISITOR CENTER, Brooklyn, NY, 11234, USA
Camp Gateway- Brooklyn Ny
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
The camp fee is $30 per night. Other potential fees include a reservation service fee ($8-$9 online or contact center, $3 in-person), a $10 change fee for modifying reservations, and additional fees for late cancellations or no-shows. Firewood can be purchased at the camp store for $11.
About this campground
Where urban adventure meets outdoor escape, Camp Gateway offers an extraordinary camping experience unlike any other in the nation. Nestled within the woodland habitat of historic Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, this unique campground puts you at the crossroads of wilderness and metropolis. Wake up to birdsong in your tent or RV, then hop on your bike to explore miles of trails, launch a kayak into Jamaica Bay, or catch the subway into Manhattan. With tent and RV sites (no hookups), convenient dump station, and essential amenities, Camp Gateway serves as your basecamp for discovering both natural wonders and city treasures. Summer brings engaging ranger-led programs that unveil the area's rich history and diverse ecosystem.
Camp Gateway-Brooklyn NY accommodates tent and RV camping. Group camping and primitive options are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Floyd Bennett Field, where pioneering aviators once pushed the boundaries of flight and military personnel defended America's shores. This storied landscape bears witness to everything from Civil War-era fortifications to golden age aviation milestones. Don't miss the Ryan Visitor Center, housed in an authentic airplane hangar that brings the airfield's glory days to life—Saturday visits are especially rewarding when docents share captivating stories of the daredevils and heroes who made history here.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through October, Camp Gateway welcomes adventurers through New York's dynamic seasons. Spring arrives with mild temperatures perfect for cycling and exploration, while summer brings warm days ideal for kayaking—though July visitors should come prepared for the occasional mosquito gathering at dusk. Fall transforms the campground into a photographer's dream, with October offering particularly dry, crisp days that showcase the area's surprising natural beauty against the distant city skyline.
ElevationThis accessible urban oasis sits at sea level on the flat expanse of Brooklyn's southern shore, making it perfect for campers of all abilities. The gentle terrain invites leisurely exploration by foot or bike, with no challenging climbs to navigate—just wide-open spaces where city meets sky.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover an unexpected wilderness where Brooklyn meets the Atlantic flyway. Camp Gateway surprises visitors with its diverse habitats—from peaceful woodlands that shelter your campsite to sweeping grasslands that stretch toward Jamaica Bay's sparkling waters. While the remnants of the old airfield create an intriguingly post-industrial backdrop, nature has reclaimed much of this space, creating a fascinating blend of urban archaeology and thriving ecosystem. Steps from your site, kayakers glide across the bay while shorebirds patrol the mudflats, offering a remarkable contrast to the Manhattan skyline glimmering in the distance.
Geological RegionGateway National Recreation Area encompasses a remarkable urban wilderness where salt marshes, woodlands, and grasslands create vital habitat within America's most populous city. Camp Gateway occupies a special corner of this diverse ecosystem at Floyd Bennett Field, where decades of transformation have turned a former military airfield into a thriving natural refuge. This unique geological setting, shaped by glacial deposits and tidal forces, now serves as a critical stopover for migrating birds and a green sanctuary for city-weary souls.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, drinking water, parking, and showers are provided at the campground.
Sites SizeRV sites are large, open paved areas with no shade or trees. Tent sites are smaller and require campers to carry supplies in from parking areas.
Sites PrivacySites are close together with limited privacy; noise and disturbances from other campers are frequently reported.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend avoiding July due to mosquito swarms and suggest early arrival to navigate the minimally marked pavement layout.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsites like T15 and G31 are praised for cleanliness and proximity to facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in is required upon arrival
- photo ID is mandatory.
Check-out
10:00 AM
Stay Limit
Reservations at this location are limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive nights. Tents must be moved every 5 days to prevent resource damage.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Number of guests per site is not specified
- regulations require all persons staying to be listed at check-in.
Groups
No information available on group camping capacity or specific features.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites include picnic tables, fire pits, and grills. Tent sites require gear to be carried approximately 100 yards and are positioned within a decommissioned airfield.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April - October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specifically referenced; visitors are encouraged to book in advance through Recreation.gov for guaranteed access.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to your reservation can be made ahead of arrival with a $10 change fee. Cancellations are permitted anytime before the check-in date but will incur a $10 cancellation fee and lose the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Camp Gateway offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, biking, birding, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, and historic tours. "You can walk to the water and watch the sail boats go by or stare at the city lights." (Review by Andres Garcia).
Hiking
Wooded hiking paths are available at Floyd Bennett Field, offering opportunities to explore nature and historical landmarks. "Nature lovers can stroll wooded paths." (Authoritative Source).Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available along Jamaica Bay. "Had access to the bay fishing, we even went kayak fishing at night." (Review by Richard Cruz).Biking
Biking trails weave through Fort Tilden and the surrounding area. "The airplane hanger was also a plus. Definitely head inside on a Saturday that it's open." (Review by Carlin N).Boating
Kayaking and other boating activities are supported. "There is a boat launch and plenty of kayakers and jet skiers." (Review by Justine Kelly).Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching opportunities are abundant at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge with over 300 species of migratory birds.Cultural and Educational Programs
Historical tours and ranger-led programs are available during summer months.Winter Activities
Limited winter activities. The campground is open seasonally from April to October.Water Sports
Kayaking and other non-motorized water sports are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Charcoal grills provided at tent sites; outside wood is prohibited to prevent pest spread. Quiet hours begin at 10 PM.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include mosquitoes ('mosquitoes were ridiculous') and wildlife like raccoons ('came around 8:30 PM and stole bread and baby formula'). Poison ivy is also noted by reviews.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories directly mentioned.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Emergency services include Ryan Visitor Center for staff assistance (open 9 AM - 4/5 PM daily); nearest hospital and police station are in Brooklyn proper, approximately 10 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring through summer months, particularly April - October.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are located at the entrance of the campground. Campers are required to remove all trash and cannot burn waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is steps from Jamaica Bay with access to a boat launch, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise from nearby traffic and planes: 'Planes flying over your head all night,' 'speeding cars all night.' Mosquitoes appear to be a recurring issue during summer months.
HostRangers are described as helpful and polite: 'Ranger Nancy was a blessing.' They provide guidance on visiting NYC and maintaining campground order.
Campground Map
Floyd Bennett Field, RYAN VISITOR CENTER, Brooklyn, NY, 11234, USA
Driving directionsPublic Transportation: Take the Q35 bus to the Flatbush Avenue/Ryan Visitor Center stop. Enter the park through the pedestrian gate and walk around the right side of the Visitor Center. Keep walking east for approximately 1 mile to the camp grounds. Passenger vehicles: Take the Belt Parkway to exit 11S, Flatbush Avenue South. Proceed approximately one mile south to the main entrance of Floyd Bennett Field on the left (the last traffic light before the Gil Hodges Memorial Toll Bridge.) Make a LEFT turn at the light. Follow directions below. RV Campers/Commercial vehicles: From Eastern Long Island (North Shore): Take I-495 West (Long Island Expressway) to I-278 West (Brooklyn Queens Expressway). Exit at Tillary Street (Exit 29). Make left at second traffic light onto Flatbush Avenue South. Stay on Flatbush Avenue approximately 10 miles until just before the Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge. Make a left turn at the last traffic light before the bridge to enter Floyd Bennett Field. After turning into Floyd Bennett Field make the first left turn and then the next right turn. Campground check-in is 1 mile ahead on the right. From Central New Jersey: Take I-95 to Exit 13 (Goethels Bridge - toll). Cross bridge to I-278 East (Brooklyn Queens Expressway). Exit at Atlantic Avenue (Exit 27). Stay right onto Atlantic Avenue. Take Atlantic Avenue to Flatbush Avenue. Make a right onto Flatbush Avenue southbound. Stay on Flatbush Avenue approximately 10 miles until just before the Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge. Make left at last traffic light before bridge to enter Floyd Bennett Field. After turning into Floyd Bennett Field make the first left turn and then the next right turn.
The main access routes include the Belt Parkway for passenger vehicles and alternate expressways for RVs. Roads are paved but signage is minimal, making night arrivals challenging as noted in reviews: 'If you get there after dark, finding the campsite will give you heart palpitations. The place is an endless expanse of pavement and the roads are just marked bits of that.' Seasonal access appears consistent April through October.Nearby places
Brooklyn: 0 miles (within city limits)
Manhattan: approximately 10 miles, several modes of public transportation available
Rockaway Beach: accessible via public bus
Queens: approximately 5 miles.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be purchased at the campground's store offering firewood, sundries, and National Park Service gifts. Additional options are accessible via public transportation to nearby Flatbush Avenue and Brooklyn shopping centers.
Camper Reviews
4.0
33 reviews
Camp Gateway- Brooklyn Ny has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Camp Gateway are mixed. Many reviewers appreciate its proximity to NYC and the unique urban camping experience, while others criticize noise, lack of privacy, and security issues. "This is a great little hidden spot in Brooklyn." (Review by Christopher Martinez).
Review Summaries
Based on 33 reviews
What Campers Love
Proximity to NYC, ranger-led activities, clean showers, fishing, and biking trails. "Camping in late October was perfect." (Review by Joseph M).
Based on 33 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from nearby traffic and campers, mosquitoes, raccoons, lack of privacy, and unmaintained grounds. "Mosquitoes everywhere." (Review by Ciro B).
Based on 33 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive during daylight for easier navigation, carry mosquito repellents, and use public transportation for city access. "Plan for about 1.5 hours total from the door of your RV to Battery Park."...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Mosquitoes are particularly problematic during summer months. Camping in late fall (October) offers more favorable conditions with fewer bugs and cooler temperatures.
Based on 33 reviewsCamper Quotes
"If you want to visit the city cheaply and on your own terms, this is just what you're looking for." (Review by Justine Kelly). "Bathrooms and showers were clean and warm." (Review by Carlin N). "The...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site T15 (Tamarack Loop) is noted for being clean and suitable for family camping. Site G31 (Goldenrod Loop) is appreciated for its location.
Based on 33 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible facilities are generally appreciated, although the walk to the nearest bus stop (~1 mile) can be challenging for some campers.
Based on 33 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit information on pet policies provided.
Based on 33 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025