Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod Introduce
Welcome to Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod, a distinctive campground offering an unexpected escape within the bustling metropolis of New York City. Nestled within the historic grounds of Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, this site provides a unique blend of urban accessibility and natural immersion. Operating under the umbrella of Gateway National Recreation Area, Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod is not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a "Scenic Spot" that offers a refreshing perspective on New York City, providing a range of services and goods that cater to the outdoor enthusiast looking for a unique urban adventure.
The environment of Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod is truly one-of-a-kind. Situated on what was once New York City's first municipal airport, the campground retains a sense of its historical past while offering expansive open spaces. While the area is still subject to occasional helicopter traffic, adding to its unique ambiance, the vastness of Floyd Bennett Field provides a surprising sense of tranquility and isolation from the immediate urban sprawl. Guests can expect a mix of open areas for camping, with designated sites that often feature picnic tables, fire pits, and grills – essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience. The overall feeling is one of safety and peace, with the campground being sufficiently removed from heavily populated urban areas to offer a genuine sense of escape. It’s an interesting juxtaposition of a former airfield now serving as a verdant retreat, making it a truly scenic spot for those seeking an unconventional outdoor experience.
As a "Scenic Spot," Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod goes beyond just providing a place to sleep outdoors. It offers a range of services and features designed to enhance the camping experience. For the convenience of its guests, the campground boasts a well-stocked camp store, ensuring that campers have access to essential supplies during their stay. Furthermore, the provision of hot showers and clean bathrooms is a significant amenity, offering comfort and convenience that might not always be expected in an urban camping environment. These services are crucial for a comfortable stay and demonstrate the campground’s commitment to providing a positive experience. The presence of helpful and approachable rangers is also a key service, contributing to the overall positive atmosphere and ensuring that guests feel supported and safe. These services contribute to the overall appeal of the campground as a destination, making it a viable option for longer stays and a true scenic spot for outdoor recreation.
The features of Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod are particularly compelling for those who appreciate both natural beauty and historical intrigue. The campground's location within the larger Gateway National Park system means that visitors have access to a wealth of outdoor activities and natural attractions. Several trails crisscross the area, inviting exploration and offering opportunities for walking, jogging, or cycling. A standout feature is the intriguing "Bottle Beach," part of the historically rich "Dead Horse Bay." This unique location, with its fascinating backstory (which can be explored further via Wikipedia), offers a glimpse into New York City's past and provides a compelling reason to venture beyond the immediate campground area. Another notable feature is the presence of a hanger that is dedicated to restoring old planes. Tour guides are often available to provide access to some of these aircraft, offering an unexpected and educational experience. Additionally, Riis Beach, another part of Gateway National Park, is easily accessible and well worth exploring for its recreational opportunities and coastal charm. These features truly elevate Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod beyond a mere campground, transforming it into a vibrant scenic spot with a diverse array of attractions.
While Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod offers an exceptional urban camping experience, it is important for prospective campers to be aware of certain considerations. Reviews consistently highlight the presence of mosquitoes, which can be particularly bothersome, even for those accustomed to outdoor environments. Campers from regions like Florida, known for their insect populations, have noted the severity of mosquitoes at this location, emphasizing the need for robust insect repellent. Another common observation is the prevalence of raccoons. These intelligent creatures are not shy around humans and are known to be opportunistic, making it imperative for campers to secure all food and backpacks inside tents or vehicles to prevent unwelcome intrusions. One reviewer recounted a raccoon entering their wife's purse, underscoring the importance of vigilance. It is also important to note that while the campground offers a unique urban escape, it is not within walking distance of subway or bus lines. This means that campers should be prepared to utilize personal transportation or ridesharing services to access other parts of the city, and budget for parking fees if driving into Manhattan or other urban centers. Despite these challenges, the overall sentiment from experienced campers is highly positive, with many expressing a strong desire to return, a testament to the campground's unique appeal as a scenic spot.
In conclusion, Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod stands as a remarkable "Scenic Spot" that defies conventional expectations of urban camping. Its strategic location on historic Floyd Bennett Field, within Gateway National Park, offers a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and surprising tranquility amidst the urban landscape. The campground provides essential services such as a camp store, hot showers, and clean bathrooms, ensuring a comfortable stay. Its unique features, including access to trails, the intriguing Bottle Beach, the plane restoration hanger, and nearby Riis Beach, make it a destination that offers much more than just a place to sleep. While campers should come prepared for mosquitoes and vigilant about securing food from raccoons, and plan for transportation, the overwhelming positive feedback from visitors underscores its value as a unique and memorable camping experience. For those seeking an authentic outdoor adventure without straying too far from the vibrant pulse of New York City, Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod truly is a hidden gem and a prime example of a scenic spot delivering exceptional experiences.
Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod Photos










Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod Location
Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod
Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY 11234, USA
Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod
Floyd Bennett Field
Gateway National Recreation Area
H4Q6+R5
Ecology Village
Campsite Trail
Floyd Bennett Garden Assoc. (Private)
43-125 Aviation Rd
Jean Bourque Marsh Lookout
Hiking Trail
Marine Parkway Bridge Connector
Belt Pkwy
Jamaica Bay Trail
Jamaica Bay Greenway
McGuire Fields
Bergen Ave
Lindower Park
Strickland Ave
Paerdegat Beach
Paerdegat
Salt Marsh Nature Trail park
3078 Gerritsen Ave
Gateway National Recreation Area - Jamaica Bay Unit
Far Rockaway
Gwirtzman Triangle
Cronston Ave &
Camp Gateway Brooklyn Tamarak and Goldenrod Reviews
For a place to camp in NYC its not bad at all. It's on an old air field that still has helicopter traffic but it's cool. Positives... very safe. It's far enough from the hood that you don't have to worry about anything. The ranger is very helpful and cool and the sites have picnic tables and fire pits along with grills. Negatives.... mosquitos are the worst I have experienced and we are from Florida. They don't even care if you cover your self in cutter. Lots of raccoons. They are not afraid of people so )/bringing bring your food and backpacks inside. First night one went in my wife's purse. All in all we camp a lot and I would come back here. Fyi you can not walk to the subway or bus so be prepared to pay for parking in the city. Other notes.... They have camp store, hot showers, clean bathrooms.
Jul 19, 2017 · John KrukAmazing location. I found this randomly while searching 'maps'. This site is part of the larger 'Gateway National Park'. Its fairly Isolated from the rest of Brooklyn but a good place to Male a base and travel from. The camp sits on top of the first NYC airport. Prepare yourself for mosquitoes and raccoons. 'Walk in' sites are pretty good. Make sure you dont book an rv site if you are tent camping. The site is all tarmac! Location has several trails including an interesting location called 'Bottle Beach' part of 'Dead Horse Bay'. Wikipedia the history. Also offered is a hanger that restores old planes. Tour guides are useful to gain access to some of the aircraft. Riis beach is also part of the park and worth exploring.
Oct 08, 2018 · Paul ButlerI wish I could say that this is the weirdest place I have ever camped but it is certainly one of the more interesting."Camp store"/Registration closes at 1600 and there is no fee box or camp host to register with after hours like they have at other NPS facilities. "Camp store"/Registration is supposed to open at 0900 but NEVER did while I was there. It isn't really a camp store, it is a souvenir shop selling useless NPS junk that happens to also have firewood and ice. Make sure you have everything you need before arriving or you will be taking a ride into Brooklyn to get it.The tent sites have all the usual things you expect at a NPS campground (fire ring, BBQ, picnic table) but you can't park near your site so if you have more than a tent and a sleeping bag, you will be making multiple long trips to your vehicle. The "RV sites" are really just a parking spot on a sectioned off piece of one of the old landing strips so don't expect to do any of the usual "camping" activities like having a campfire.Hands down the most clueless NPS staff I have ever encountered. If you want unsolicited advice on the NYC transit system or where to get a slice of pizza they are a wealth of information... ask them anything even remotely camping related and they turn into a bunch of babbling buffoons. Asked one staffer where the potable water spigot was and she looked at me like I had 12 heads. The "water faucet"... blank stare... "the place the water comes out" (am I playing charades or talking to a federal government employee?)... "what do you need to use the water for?"... "washing my hands before handling food, rinsing dishes, ect."... "You can wash your hands in the bathroom over there"... (pointing to the water container in my hand) "where do I fill this up with H2O?"... "are you camping here" (?no I came here for the water?)... "Yes"... "go to w"... "what is w?" It should not take a two minute conversation to find out about a basic camping task!There really is no other viable camping option anywhere even remotely close so you are stuck with this place. Just don't expect Yellowstone or Yosemite type NPS management. Never thought I would ever say that a place needs Xantera or Delaware North type concessioneers to run a proper campground.
Oct 27, 2017 · Mya GillIt was such a great experience to be able to camp near NYC. I was looking forward to it for a while and it did not disappoint. There are restrooms and showers on site. You can also buy firewood for about $11. However, finding twigs to start a fire proved to be somewhat difficult. Hammocking could be hard since there are not that many suitable trees. You can walk to the water and watch the sail boats go by or stare at the city lights.
Jun 23, 2019 · Andres GarciaStaff are excellent, place is amazing. Air conditioned bathroom facilities and plenty of parking but it's Brooklyn camping. Which means it's loud, very loud sometimes. I still love it though!
Sep 13, 2018 · Paul Larkin
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