Sandy Hook Partially Reopening Next Saturday, May 9

HIGHLANDS, NJ — Gateway National Recreation Area will reopen Sandy Hook, in a limited capacity, beginning next Saturday, May 9.

The National Park Service announced the news Friday, after closing Sandy Hook in early April, following Gov. Murphy's decision to close all state and county parks.

Following guidance from the White House, CDC cnd state and local public health officials, Gateway National Recreation Area is opening limited recreation access.

Beginning May 9, the following sites at Sandy Hook will be open for passive recreation from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily:

• Parking lots B, C, D, E, and G will be open at 50% capacity
• Most trails including the Multi-Use Path
• Both ocean and bay-side beaches will be accessible for passive recreation (beaches will not be lifeguarded)
• 2019 Fishing Permits will be honored for access.

Passive recreation includes activities such as:

• running
• hiking
• fishing
• kayaking

Prohibited activities:

• swimming
• picnicking
• group gatherings and activities.

Permanent restroom facilities will remain closed; however, portable units will be available for public use. There will be limited garbage services. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles (carry in, carry out).

With public health in mind, the following facilities remain closed at this time:

• Sandy Hook Campground
• Sandy Hook Lighthouse and Visitor Center
• History House
• Fort Hancock Museum
• Guardian Park Picnic Area
• Parking Lot A
• North Beach / K Lot
• All gun batteries and fortifications

"We encourage our visitors to enjoy the outdoors and engage in passive recreation, such as walking, jogging, and hiking, as well as biking and fishing," said Jen Nersesian, superintendent of Gateway. "A social distance of six feet should be maintained at all times while visiting Sandy Hook."

The following spaces within Gateway continue to be open to visitors:

• Staten Island Unit
• Jamaica Bay Unit (other than Floyd Bennett Field)

While these areas are accessible for visitors to enjoy, a return to full operations will continue to be phased, and services may be limited. When recreating, the public should follow local area health orders, practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid crowding and avoid high-risk outdoor activities.