Image source: recreation.gov
“Explore the sensory feast of glamping at Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook. Nestle in amid lush greenery, experience rustic tent sites, and savor the tranquility of nature. Merge extraordinary comfort with a thrilling rustic outdoor experience.”
Address: 26 Hudson Rd, Highlands, NJ 07732, USA
Google Maps Page: https://maps.google.com/?cid=2995174387084132758
Accommodation Options
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, discover the unique tranquil glamping experience at Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook! Nestled within one of the most urbanized areas of the country, this gem lets you connect with the wild while still enjoying the comforts of flush toilets and drinkable water. Offering 20 walk-in only tent sites set over four loops, this distinctive retreat promises an immersive venture into the wilderness. Some sites come with shelters, while all are equipped with a fire pit, picnic table, and bear lockers to keep any food or scented items away from the inquisitive local raccoons. Though there is no beach access or showers at the camp, nearby beaches ensure a quick dip in the sea and outdoor rinse!
This memorable haven lets you truly escape the urban bustle and reconnect with nature. Sitting directly across a lake, you can lose hours watching the small fish schools, witnessing the migrations of horseshoe crabs, and enjoying the company of multiple bird species. The campsite is also a great spot for non-motorized water sports, sunbathing, biking, hiking, and the thrill of spotting seals out in force. Keen history buffs can also embark on an enlightening NPS tour, exploring the military history of the area and visiting the oldest working lighthouse in the U.S.
In the event a recent thunderstorm has interrupted electrical service, fear not! At Camp Gateway, you will find portable restrooms and handwashing stations in position for campers’ convenience. Though there are no electrical outlets or showers located within the campsite or bathrooms, you are still ensured comfort and hygiene.
Seize the moment to immerse yourself in the unique urban wilderness at Camp Gateway’s Sandy Hook! Here, you are not simply camping, but participating in an unforgettable eco-friendly adventure that respects wildlife and cherishes natural beauty. Be prepared for an adventurous glamping experience where natural wonders pair with comfort to redefine your camping experience altogether! Your adventure awaits at this exceptional and scenic natural retreat.
The Glamping Experience at Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook
Venturing into the lush expanse of Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook, the immersive glamping experience is a sensory feast. Nestled among four well-spaced loops, a collection of 20 carefully selected tent sites lay waiting. A sense of adventure sparks as you navigate your way to your walk-in site, the crunching gravel under your wheels as you usher your gear in provided carts, the exhilarating anticipation mingling with the scent of fresh outdoor air.
Some tent sites coyly conceal themselves under the protective awning of rustic shelters, while others are bravely baring themselves to the elements. All are intriguingly equipped with a fire pit and a classic picnic table, flames ready to dance and crackle under the cloak of night. Nearby, the gentle murmur of conversations brushes against your ears as you notice the presence of water spigots and bathrooms, featuring the modern luxury of flush toilets.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the sunset casts an incandescent glow over the landscape, turning the sky into a living painting. You respect the fierce raccoons, storing your scented items securely in the provided bear lockers. Around you, activities abound: trails inviting you for a birding walk or a bike ride, the anticipation of cooling off in nearby beaches, the playful splash of non-motorized water sports, or the historic lure of the oldest working lighthouse in the US.
The refreshing absence of electric hookups or showers amplifies the authenticity of the experience, while nearby beaches offer the indulgence of outdoor shower facilities. An undercurrent of excitement whispers through the woodland; adjacent Hartshorne Woods Park tempts with thrilling hiking and mountain bike trails.
Sudden splashes at the nearby lake entrance invite you to observe small schools of fish, horseshoe crabs, and various bird species, absorbing the tranquility of nature. The campsite is a sanctuary offering clean potable water and efficient facilities for your needs. As night descends, you diligently dispose of your trash, maintaining a respectful distance between nature and your presence.
Immersed in this enchanting setting, you’re reminded of the harmony that exists between humanity and the natural world. The blend of rustic camping and comfort brims with the promise of a memorable adventure. Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook, unassuming yet unique, infuses everyday camping with the unexpected, a place where the ordinary meets the extraordinary.
Activities at Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook
Immerse yourself in outdoor paradise at Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook! Delight in a myriad of activities tailored to nature lovers. If you’re seeking a rejuvenating retreat, head to the picturesque beaches where you can indulge in non-motorized water sports or soak up the sun, including the unique option of a nude beach at Gunnison. Alternatively, a myriad of multi-use trails await here, perfect for both walkers and cyclists alike – a great way to explore the surrounding natural beauty!
Sandy Hook is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering an array of bird-watching opportunities. You might even be lucky enough to spot seals basking in the distance! For the history buffs, embarking on an NPS tour provides a fascinating insight into the military history of the area, as well as a visit to the oldest working lighthouse in the US.
If you’re in the mood for a little adventure, the nearby Hartshorne Woods Park and the Monmouth County Park System offer exceptional hiking and mountain bike trails. Be sure to keep your scented items secured in the bear lockers provided on-site to avoid unwelcome attention from local racoons.
Learning about the diverse wildlife is an experience in itself, thanks to the friendly park rangers who take the time to educate visitors about the vibrant ecosystem. Even children get to enjoy the magic of the wilderness here, with rangers often treating them with camping goodies and binoculars. Finally, don’t miss out on the enchanting sunset over the bay that will surely remain as a memorable highlight from your visit to Sandy Hook. Witness the tranquility of the lake across the campsite where small schools of fish navigate the waters, shoe horse crabs crawl nearby, and various bird species soar the sky.
Remember, at Sandy Hook, it’s all about respecting nature and preserving its beauty. So please, dispose of your trash responsibly every night. This isn’t just any spot, it’s one you get to share with a charming ensemble of wildlife, birds, and marine life. Come, let’s adventure responsibly at Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook!
What is the area around Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook like (Highlands)?
Highlands, New Jersey, is located in Monmouth County on the state’s east coast. It covers an area of about 1.3 square miles. The town boasts a diverse terrain, ranging from its scenic beachfront areas along the Sandy Hook Bay to higher terrain up on the hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Highlands is actually named for its high hills that offer amazing vantage points.
Located right on the Atlantic Ocean, Highlands is characterized by a maritime climate with humid summers and moderate to cool winters, making it a pleasant place to visit at any time of the year.
As for natural tourist attractions, the Twin Lights Historic Site, located in Highlands, offers visitors the chance to explore one of the oldest and most unique lighthouses in America. Additionally, the proximity to Sandy Hook, a barrier spit, makes it a popular location. The Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area is close by and attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its array of activities including hiking, biking, bird watching, and beach-going.
Additionally, the Hartshorne Woods Park offers over 14 miles of trails through upland forests and offers fantastic views of the Navesink River. The park’s diverse terrain challenges hikers, mountain bikers, and outdoor lovers, while the rocky shoreline and salt marsh habitat make it a favorite spot for nature photography.
Remember to also plan a boat trip; the town’s coastal location means that sailing, fishing, and marine activities are popular pastimes and attractions in Highlands.
With its lush green landscapes, stunning beachfront, and historic landmarks, Highlands, NJ is a nature lover’s paradise and holds an irresistible appeal for those who love to explore natural and historic wonders.
What Wildlife might you see at Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook?
Highlands, New Jersey, features a wide variety of wildlife due to its unique coastal location and diverse range of habitats. Some of the various wildlife you might encounter include:
1. Birds: This area is a hot spot for birdwatching. A large variety of bird species can be observed seasonally or year-round, such as ospreys, hawks, gulls, terns, and American oystercatchers.
2. Marine Life: Given its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Shrewsbury River, Highlands is home to numerous marine species like fish, crabs, and shellfish. During migration seasons, you might even be able to spot dolphins and seals.
3. Mammals: In the forests and parklands, you may come across white-tailed deer, foxes, raccoons, and rabbits.
4. Insects and Reptiles: The area’s various habitats also support a wide range of insects, reptiles and amphibians. This includes numerous types of butterflies, turtles, frogs, snakes, and salamanders.
5. Flora: While not wildlife, Highlands also offers a variety of unique vegetation, from the salt marsh grasses by the coast to forest trees and wildflowers.
Please remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and do not feed or disturb the animals.
When is the best time to visit Camp Gateway – Sandy Hook?
Highlands, New Jersey, experiences a full range of climate fluctuations with distinctive weather characteristics each season.
Spring (March to May): Spring weather is quite unpredictable in Highlands, ranging from warm, early summer-like days to colder ones. Rainfall is typical during this season, so it’s key to pack an umbrella or rain jacket. The average high fluctuates between 50‚°F (10‚°C) and 65‚°F (18‚°C).
Summer (June to August): Summers are warm and humid, with an average high of around 80‚°F to 85‚°F (27-30‚°C). Occasional heatwaves can push the temperature above 90‚°F (32‚°C). This season also brings a fair amount of rainfall, usually in the form of thunderstorms.
Autumn (September to November): Fall is arguably the most beautiful time in Highlands, with colors of red, orange, and yellow blanketing the area as leaves change. Temperatures gradually drop from Summer highs to Wintery lows throughout the season. It ranges from 55‚°F to 75‚°F (12-24‚°C). The weather is typically quite comfortable.
Winter (December to February): Winters are usually cold and snowy. Temperatures often average between 25‚°F to 45‚°F (-4 to 7‚°C) during the day but can fall below this range during particularly cold spells. Snowfall is common.
The best time to visit Highlands, New Jersey, largely depends on what you want to do. Summer is great if you love warm beach weather, though it can be quite busy due to its popularity. Fall is fantastic for photography and enjoying the beautiful transformation of foliage.
However, spring, particularly late spring, might be an overall best time to visit for most travelers. The weather is relatively mild, nature is in full bloom, and you can beat the high tourism rush of summer while still getting to enjoy a lot of outdoor activities.
Before you travel!
While we strive to provide accurate and comprehensive details about various glamping locations across the USA, it’s important to note that we haven’t personally visited each and every site mentioned in this website. As such, there might be occasional discrepancies or outdated information in our descriptions. Before finalizing any travel plans or making decisions based on our content, we strongly recommend reaching out to the specific glamping location to verify any details or gather additional information. Your adventure deserves thorough planning, and a quick check can ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate details!
