Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod

For many New Yorkers, the idea of a true outdoor escape, complete with pitching a tent and sitting around a campfire, often seems like a distant dream, requiring hours of travel and a significant commitment of time. However, a remarkable and surprisingly accessible opportunity for this very experience exists right here in Brooklyn. Forget the long drives upstate; you can find tranquility and a taste of the wilderness without ever leaving the five boroughs. This unique proposition makes "Camp Gateway Brooklyn," home to the Tamarak and Goldenrod camping areas, an invaluable resource for locals looking to reconnect with nature.

Camp Gateway Brooklyn, nestled within the expansive and historically rich Floyd Bennett Field, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, redefines what urban camping can be. It offers an unparalleled chance to sleep under the stars, listen to the sounds of nature (perhaps even an occasional helicopter, a quirky reminder of its past as an airfield!), and enjoy the simple pleasures of camping, all while remaining surprisingly close to the vibrant energy of New York City. This isn't a sprawling wilderness campground, but rather a thoughtfully designed space that provides essential amenities and a peaceful atmosphere. It's the perfect solution for families eager to introduce their children to the joys of camping, individuals seeking a quick mental reset, or anyone simply craving a break from the concrete jungle without the logistical headache of a long journey. The unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and unparalleled accessibility makes Camp Gateway Brooklyn a truly distinctive and highly suitable local escape for any New Yorker yearning for an outdoor adventure. It truly allows you to experience two worlds at once – the serenity of a campfire and the iconic skyline just beyond the horizon.

Camp Gateway Brooklyn, encompassing the Tamarak and Goldenrod sections, is strategically located at Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY 11234, USA. This address places it within a fascinating and geographically significant area of New York City, offering exceptional accessibility for local residents.

For those traveling by car, Floyd Bennett Field is readily accessible via major thoroughfares. The Belt Parkway provides a direct route, with Exit 11S (Flatbush Avenue South) leading straight into the park. This makes for a relatively straightforward drive from all boroughs, particularly Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island, avoiding the deeper congestion of Manhattan. While there is parking available at the campground, it’s important to note that specific tent sites may require a short walk from the parking area, so campers should be prepared to transport their gear. Reviews confirm that the campground is considered "very safe" due to its location somewhat removed from densely populated areas.

A significant highlight of Camp Gateway Brooklyn’s location is its public transportation accessibility, a rare and valuable feature for a campground in New York City. While you cannot walk directly to a subway or bus stop from the campsites themselves, the Q35 bus route serves Floyd Bennett Field. This bus connects campers to the Flatbush/Nostrand Avenue subway station, which is served by the 2 and 5 train lines. This connectivity means that New Yorkers without a personal vehicle can still enjoy the camping experience, reaching the campground via a combination of subway and bus. This significantly broadens the appeal of Camp Gateway, making outdoor adventures truly democratic and available to a wider segment of the city's population.

Beyond simple transportation, the location within Floyd Bennett Field offers immediate access to a wealth of activities and points of interest. The campground serves as a gateway (pun intended!) to various hiking and biking trails that crisscross the former airfield. Historical sites, including old airport hangars, are within reach for exploration. The proximity to Jamaica Bay is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying coastal habitats. This means that once you've set up your camp at Tamarak or Goldenrod, you're not isolated; you're on the doorstep of a rich natural and historical landscape, easily explored on foot, by bike, or with a short ride to other parts of Gateway National Recreation Area, like Riis Beach. This blend of urban proximity and natural exploration truly defines the accessibility of Camp Gateway Brooklyn.

Camp Gateway Brooklyn, comprising the Tamarak and Goldenrod sections, provides a fundamental yet comprehensive array of services designed to facilitate a comfortable and authentic camping experience within an urban setting. These offerings focus on essential amenities, ensuring campers have what they need for an enjoyable stay.

Key services and amenities generally provided include:

• Dedicated Tent Sites: Both Tamarak (13 sites) and Goldenrod (14 sites) are primarily tents-only sections, offering individual spaces for campers to pitch their tents. Goldenrod sites are noted to have a combination of grass, dirt, and gravel, grouped into small alcoves, while Tamarack sites are along the perimeter of a large grassy field.
• RV Sites: In addition to tent sites, Camp Gateway Brooklyn also offers RV sites in sections like Amelia Earhart, though it’s important to note that these are often on tarmac and do not typically offer full hookups (water/electricity/sewer) at the site itself. A dump station is available for RV waste.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite, whether tent or RV, is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and gathering.
• Fire Pits/Grills: Individual campsites include fire rings for campfires and stand-up grills for cooking. This allows campers to enjoy the classic campfire experience. (Note: Personal charcoal grills, glass containers, and alcoholic beverages are generally not permitted. Outside wood is prohibited; firewood is available for purchase on-site).
• Restrooms: Clean, modern bathroom facilities are available in a mobile home-type building near the camp store. It's noted that these restrooms are typically open during limited hours (e.g., 9 AM to 2 PM when the store is open), with a chemical toilet available for after-hours use.
• Hot Showers: Hot showers are provided, a highly valued amenity for campers, particularly after a day of outdoor activities. Like the restrooms, these are generally accessible during camp store hours.
• Camp Store: A convenient on-site camp store offers essential camping supplies, firewood for purchase, drinks, and snacks. This is a crucial service, especially given the park’s somewhat isolated feel from immediate commercial areas.
• Ranger Programs: The National Park Service often provides ranger-led interpretive programs, especially during the warmer months. These educational and engaging activities offer insights into the park's natural and cultural history.
• On-Site Staff/Rangers: Reviews consistently praise the helpfulness and presence of park rangers, who contribute to the campground's safety and provide assistance to campers.
• Dump Station: Available for RV campers to dispose of waste.
• Designated Parking: Parking is available, though in some tent sections, gear may need to be carried a short distance from the parking lot to the campsite.

While a more rustic experience than some glamping options, Camp Gateway Brooklyn excels in providing the core elements necessary for a comfortable and authentic camping trip, all within the unique context of an urban national park.

Camp Gateway Brooklyn, including its Tamarak and Goldenrod sections, offers a truly unique set of features and highlights that distinguish it as a premier urban camping destination for New Yorkers. These aspects make it not just a place to stay, but a destination for exploration, relaxation, and connection with both nature and history.

Key Features and Highlights:

• Unbeatable Urban Camping: The most compelling feature is the ability to camp within New York City. This provides an extraordinary opportunity to experience outdoor living under the stars, just a short distance from the bustling metropolis. It's a surreal and often peaceful experience, as confirmed by reviewers who note it's "not bad at all" for camping in NYC.
• Historical Riches of Floyd Bennett Field: The campground sits on what was once New York City's first municipal airport, and its history is palpable. Campers can explore the remnants of old hangars (like Hangar B, which houses restored planes and offers tours), discover Civil War-era forts, and learn about its past as a Naval Air Station. This historical depth adds a unique educational layer to the camping trip.
• Nature and Wildlife in an Urban Setting: Despite its location, Floyd Bennett Field is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, a vital ecological zone. It's a haven for birdwatching, particularly at the nearby Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, and offers opportunities to observe various coastal ecosystems. Reviewers mention encountering raccoons (a reminder to secure food!) and suggest an abundance of mosquitos, indicating a vibrant natural environment.
• Extensive Recreational Opportunities: The area provides numerous avenues for outdoor activity. There are extensive hiking and biking trails throughout Floyd Bennett Field, including routes to interesting locations like "Bottle Beach" (part of Dead Horse Bay, with a fascinating history to research). Riis Beach is also part of the park and worth exploring.
• Convenient Amenities: For a campground so close to a major city, the provided amenities are a significant highlight. Clean bathrooms and hot showers are available, as well as a camp store for essential supplies and firewood. Each site also includes picnic tables, fire pits, and grills, ensuring comfort and convenience for meals and campfires.
• Safety and Friendly Staff: Customer reviews frequently praise the safety of the campground and the helpfulness and "cool" attitude of the park rangers. This contributes significantly to a positive and worry-free camping experience.
• Unique Proximity to NYC Attractions: While a tranquil escape, the campground’s accessibility via public transport means that major New York City attractions are within reach for day trips, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban exploration.
• Affordability: Compared to hotel stays in NYC, camping at Camp Gateway provides a remarkably affordable accommodation option, making a New York City getaway more accessible for many.

These features collectively define Camp Gateway Brooklyn as more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates New York City’s hidden natural gems and rich history.

As a National Park Service (NPS) campground, Camp Gateway Brooklyn (including Tamarak and Goldenrod) operates primarily through the Recreation.gov booking platform. While typical commercial "promotions" like percentage-off sales are not standard for NPS sites, there are ways New Yorkers can find value or potential savings:

• Federal Recreation Passes: Holders of certain federal recreation passes, such as the America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass series (which includes Annual, Senior, Access, and Military passes), are typically eligible for a 50% discount on camping fees. It is essential for pass holders to present their valid pass upon check-in to receive the applicable discount.
• Off-Season Value: While not a direct "promotion," camping during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or weekdays often offers a more tranquil experience and potentially easier booking availability compared to peak summer weekends. While rates generally remain consistent, the overall value may increase due to fewer crowds and a more peaceful environment.
• Ranger-Led Programs: These educational and interpretive programs, often offered free of charge during the summer months, add significant value to a stay at Camp Gateway. They provide engaging activities and learning opportunities for families and individuals without additional cost.

To secure your spot and inquire about any specific current information or policies regarding fees and potential savings, prospective campers should:

• Visit Recreation.gov: This is the official and most reliable platform for checking availability, current rates, and making reservations for Camp Gateway Brooklyn. Search for "Camp Gateway- Brooklyn NY."
• Contact the Park Directly: For any specific questions regarding accessibility, group bookings, or nuanced policies that might not be immediately clear on the website, calling the park office (details below) is recommended.

Given its unique location and popularity, especially on weekends and during summer, it is highly advisable to book reservations well in advance to ensure availability. The primary value proposition lies in the unique opportunity to camp within New York City at an affordable rate.

For direct inquiries regarding Camp Gateway Brooklyn, including the Tamarak and Goldenrod camping areas, please use the following contact information:

• Address: Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY 11234, USA
• Phone: (718) 338-3799
• Mobile Phone: +1 718-338-3799

When calling, you may reach the general visitor center or park office for Gateway National Recreation Area, and they can assist you with campground-specific questions, provide details on site features, or guide you through the reservation process.

Reservations are primarily managed through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to visit their website and search for "Camp Gateway- Brooklyn NY" to check current availability, view campsite details, and complete your booking. Given the campground's unique location and popularity, especially during peak seasons and weekends, booking well in advance is essential to secure your preferred dates and site.

For New York locals, Camp Gateway Brooklyn, encompassing the Tamarak and Goldenrod sections, stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for an outdoor retreat. Its most compelling advantage is its unparalleled accessibility within the five boroughs. For busy New Yorkers, the thought of escaping to nature often involves hours of driving and intricate planning. Camp Gateway eliminates this barrier, offering a genuine camping experience that's reachable via a relatively short drive or even public transportation via the Q35 bus connecting to the subway. This convenience means less time commuting and more time enjoying the outdoors, making it ideal for spontaneous weekend getaways or even a quick mid-week refresh.

Beyond accessibility, the campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and essential amenities. Locals can discover the hidden natural wonders of Jamaica Bay, enjoy birdwatching, and explore extensive hiking and biking trails, all within minutes of their home borough. The historical context of Floyd Bennett Field, with its aviation past and military remnants, adds a fascinating educational dimension to any stay, providing a deeper connection to New York City's own rich history. The presence of clean restrooms, hot showers, picnic tables, and fire pits ensures a comfortable experience, addressing common concerns about urban camping.

Furthermore, the affordability of camping at Camp Gateway, especially when compared to hotel stays in the city, makes it an attractive option for families and individuals looking for a budget-friendly vacation or "staycation." It provides a safe and well-maintained environment, with helpful rangers adding to the peace of mind. For those looking to introduce children to camping, it’s an ideal, low-barrier entry point into outdoor adventures. In essence, Camp Gateway Brooklyn offers a rare and valuable opportunity for New Yorkers to reconnect with nature, learn about their city's history, and create lasting memories, all without the need to venture far from home. It's a true urban oasis designed for the local adventurer.

Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod

Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY 11234, USA