The Jamaica Bay Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area is located in Brooklyn and Queens, New York, and includes multiple sub units surrounding Jamaica Bay. However, many of these, including the dozen or so islands in the bay, are undeveloped and offer no attractions for tourists or locals. A few of the properties are actually landfills and industrial sites. The National Park Service lists nine destinations worth visiting, and a 12-mile Multi-Use Path open to hikers, bikers, and skaters connects many of them together. See the following sub unit web pages for more information.
- Horseback Riding
- Fishing
- Private beach club
- Canoe launch
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Archery range
- Canoe launches
- Fishing
- Full-service marina
- Golf driving range
- Hiking trails
- Military history
- Playground
- Remote control aircraft field
- Ryan Visitor Center
- Tent and RV camping
- Various sports fields and facilities
- Beach
- Camping
- Fishing
- Military history
- Picnicking (reserve for group outings)
- Private beach club
FRANK M. CHARLES MEMORIAL PARK
- Baseball fields
- Fishing
- Half-mile walking path
- Picnicking
- Playground
- Tennis and basketball courts
- Fishing
- Food, beverage, and live entertainment
- Picnicking
- Pitch-n-Put Golf Course
- Playground, sports courts and fields
- Swimming beach with lifeguards
- Canoe Launch
- Fishing
- Hiking trails
- Picnicking
- Visitor Center
- Wildlife watching and photography
- Beach
- Canoe Launch
- Fishing
OPERATING HOURS
Operating hours for all sub units vary. See the sub unit web page for more information.
FEES
There is a fee to park at Jacob Riis Park from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day between the hours of 8 AM and 6 PM. This is for vehicles only, not for those riding a bike, walking, or getting dropped off. There are also fees for camping at Floyd Bennett Field and to park in certain lots when fishing. See the sub unit web pages for details.
With a few exceptions, use of any photograph on the National Park Planner website requires a paid Royalty Free Editorial Use License or Commercial Use License. See the Photo Usage page for details.
Last updated on January 26, 2025