Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook

Hey there, New Jersey adventurers and outdoor lovers! Are you dreaming of a unique camping experience that blends the tranquility of nature with the allure of coastal exploration, all right here in our incredible Garden State? Look no further than Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook in Highlands. This distinctive tent-only campground, nestled within the expansive Gateway National Recreation Area, offers a truly memorable escape. It's the perfect spot for New Jersey residents seeking a rustic yet convenient outdoor adventure, complete with access to stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and abundant wildlife.

Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook provides a back-to-basics camping experience that many locals appreciate, a true departure from the everyday hustle. As one camper enthusiastically stated, "Great tent-camping site. Nice knowing there won't be a generator roaring next door." This sentiment highlights the quiet, natural ambiance that defines the campground. Another reviewer, who stayed on one of the last nights of 2025, praised it as a "Great camping spot overall," noting "Bathrooms with flushing water. Fresh drinking water available very close to the campsites. Would recommend!" The presence of these essential amenities significantly enhances the comfort of this natural setting.

While one reviewer mentioned a past "cockroach issue" and an early closure in 2025, they personally "had no problem with them at all" during their stay, seeing only "a couple of tiny little guys in the morning." This suggests that any issues might be seasonal or actively managed. Campers should also be aware of the "lots of animals (raccoons and foxes)," and utilize the provided "bear boxes" for food and trash to keep their site tidy and safe. Despite some considerations, the overwhelming positive sentiment, including one camper calling it their "new favorite campground!", underscores its strong appeal to those seeking an authentic and engaging outdoor experience on the Jersey Shore.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook is located at 26 Hudson Rd, Highlands, NJ 07732, USA, within the stunning Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area. This prime coastal location in Monmouth County is a significant draw for New Jersey residents, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. The campground is situated on Sandy Hook, a 7-mile barrier spit, providing immediate access to both ocean beaches and the calmer waters of Sandy Hook Bay.

Access to Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook is straightforward, typically via Route 36 which leads directly into the Gateway National Recreation Area. While cars are not permitted at the actual campsites, a parking lot is conveniently located nearby, though campers should be aware it "may fill up if busy." Sites are walk-in, but only about a quarter-mile from the parking area, and carts are available to help transport gear, making it manageable for families.

The location offers unparalleled access to a wealth of activities. Campers can "walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked," providing a tranquil beach experience. While "Ocean-side beach parking NOT included," visitors are encouraged to "bring bikes" as "they're too far from camp to walk" to access these beautiful ocean beaches, or pay for additional parking if desired. Critically, there are "Very nice biking trails to explore the area," including the Multi-Use Pathway, which stretches for seven miles and loops through Fort Hancock. This path provides a fantastic way to explore the park's diverse landscapes and historic sites. The combination of a secluded natural setting, direct beach access, and excellent biking trails makes Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook an exceptionally accessible and appealing destination for New Jersey locals.

Services Offered

• 20 tent-only campsites spread across four loops, some with shelters and others without.
• All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table for traditional camping experiences.
• Access to well-lit central restroom facilities with flush toilets and fresh running water.
• Food storage containers (often referred to as "bear boxes") provided at each site to secure food and trash from wildlife like raccoons and foxes.
• Carts available for hauling gear from the nearby parking lot to the walk-in campsites.
• Potable water spigots located very close to the campsites for easy access to drinking water.
• Firewood available for purchase at the camping check-in office (no gleaning or carry-in allowed).
• 24-hour access to the campground once registered, allowing flexibility for coming and going during your stay.
• Friendly and helpful rangers on-site to assist campers and provide information about the park.
• Outdoor rinse showers available at nearby beaches within Gateway National Recreation Area (no showers directly at campsites).

Features / Highlights

• Unique coastal tent-camping experience within Gateway National Recreation Area.
• Absence of generator noise, promoting a truly quiet and natural environment.
• Private campsites, with some offering shade under trees for added comfort.
• Direct access to Sandy Hook Bay beaches, ideal for less crowded beach visits and water activities.
• Extensive network of very nice biking trails, including the Multi-Use Pathway, perfect for exploring the park's varied landscapes and historic sites.
• Proximity to historic landmarks such as Fort Hancock and the Sandy Hook Lighthouse (the oldest working lighthouse in the US), offering cultural enrichment.
• Opportunities for birding, with Sandy Hook being a prime spot for various bird species.
• Well-maintained and clean campground with flush toilets and readily available fresh water.
• Designated food storage boxes to mitigate wildlife interactions, emphasizing safety and cleanliness.
• Option for campfire cooking with provided fire rings and charcoal grills.

Contact Information

Address: 26 Hudson Rd, Highlands, NJ 07732, USA

Phone: (347) 630-1124 (While this number is listed, for specific Sandy Hook Park inquiries, the National Park Service Sandy Hook Visitor Center can be reached at (732) 872-5970, and general Gateway National Recreation Area inquiries at (718) 354-4606.)

Mobile Phone: +1 347-630-1124 (As above, for direct campground management or booking inquiries, it's best to consult Recreation.gov or the National Park Service official website for the most accurate contact for Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook.)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Jersey locals, Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly desirable destination for an outdoor escape. Its unique blend of accessible natural beauty, historical significance, and a truly rustic camping experience makes it an unparalleled choice right here in the Garden State. Unlike more distant wilderness areas, this campground offers the chance to immerse yourself in nature without the long hours of travel, making it perfect for spontaneous weekend trips or a quick mid-week refresh.

The suitability for locals is multifaceted. The ability to "bike pack" or easily transport gear from the nearby parking lot allows for a simple setup, freeing up more time to enjoy the surroundings. The presence of flush toilets and potable water, while keeping the overall feel wild, adds a layer of comfort that many campers appreciate. Crucially, its location within Gateway National Recreation Area means direct access to miles of beautiful beaches for swimming or relaxing, and extensive biking trails that weave through historic sites like Fort Hancock and the iconic Sandy Hook Lighthouse. This rich tapestry of natural recreation and historical exploration is literally in our backyard.

While managing food with the "fierce raccoons and foxes" using the provided bear boxes is part of the authentic experience, it reinforces the natural integrity of the site. For any New Jersey resident seeking an active yet peaceful retreat, a family adventure that blends education with outdoor fun, or simply a refreshing break from daily life without leaving the state, Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook offers an ideal solution. It truly provides a convenient, engaging, and genuinely memorable coastal camping experience, solidifying its place as a local favorite.

Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook

26 Hudson Rd, Highlands, NJ 07732, USA