Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Staten Island Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area is a unique part of the National Park Service’s effort to preserve natural and cultural resources within an urban environment. Covering more than 2,000 acres along the southern shore of Staten Island, it features expansive salt marshes, beach dunes, maritime forests, and waterfront trails. The unit is home to historic Fort Wadsworth, a key coastal defense installation with structures dating back to the Revolutionary War through World War II. Visitors can explore restored military batteries and enjoy panoramic views of the Narrows and Upper New York Bay, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. The natural environment supports a wide range of wildlife, including migratory birds that visit the wetlands and habitat for fish and shellfish along the coast. Recreational activities include hiking, birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. The Staten Island Greenbelt and trails connect the park to broader green spaces on the island, providing a natural escape within one of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas. The area also features beaches, such as South Beach and Miller Field Beach, favored for their sandy shores and water sports opportunities during summer months. With proximity to New York City, the Staten Island Unit offers city dwellers access to scenic outdoor experiences and historical exploration in a waterfront setting.
