National Recreation Area · NY,NJ

Dogs in Gateway National Recreation Area

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Limited accessLeash: 6 feet maximum, at all times.

At Gateway, leashed pets are limited to paved multi-use paths and a couple of bayside beaches. There are no open natural trails and beaches close seasonally.

Multi-use paths, sidewalks, and paved roads, plus bayside beaches at Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove (Sandy Hook) year-round.
Photo: NPS Photo · NPS

Where dogs are allowed

Multi-use paths, sidewalks, and paved roads, plus bayside beaches at Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove (Sandy Hook) year-round.

Where dogs are banned

All campgrounds, the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, and swim beach at Great Kills Park.

Seasonal closures

Ocean-side beaches at Jacob Riis Park, Fort Tilden, Breezy Point Tip, and Sandy Hook are closed to pets March 15 through September 15 for piping plover season; Great Kills swim beach is closed Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Leash rule

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
National Park Service
View the official NPS page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Recreation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Gateway National Recreation Area?

At Gateway, leashed pets are limited to paved multi-use paths and a couple of bayside beaches. There are no open natural trails and beaches close seasonally. Multi-use paths, sidewalks, and paved roads, plus bayside beaches at Plum Island and Horseshoe Cove (Sandy Hook) year-round.

What is the leash rule at Gateway National Recreation Area?

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at Gateway National Recreation Area?

Ocean-side beaches at Jacob Riis Park, Fort Tilden, Breezy Point Tip, and Sandy Hook are closed to pets March 15 through September 15 for piping plover season; Great Kills swim beach is closed Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Are service animals allowed at Gateway National Recreation Area?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.