Gateway NRA is a bunch of different nature spots scattered along the beaches and coasts of NYC and northern New Jersey. There are three units: Staten Island, Jamaica Bay, and Sandy Hook. Saw the three Staten Island locations yesterday (August 29, 2026).
Fort Wadsworth is located on The Narrows underneath the Verrazzano Bridge, and was occupied by both British and American forces during its 250+ year history. Went on a ranger-led tour and got to see the inside of the main structure. Outstanding views of the Manhattan skyline and the Verrazzano Bridge.
Great Kills Park is a large and lovely area along the coast. There are beaches, a playground, boat launches, fishing areas, and walking paths. I was there early on a Saturday morning and there were lots of people out and about.
Miller Field was once farmland owned by Cornelius Vanderbilt. The US Government bought the property in 1919 and turned it into an Air Defense Station with runways, hangars, and housing. The Park Service took the airfield and created a recreation space in 1972.
