The closest national park to NYC is Gateway National Recreation Area (~53 miles). Other national parks near New York City include Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (~75 miles), Saratoga National Historical Park (~180 miles), and Shenandoah National Park (~280 miles).
The 4 closest national parks to NYC
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1. Gateway National Recreation Area
Distance: ~53 miles (1 hour drive)
Highlights:
- Spans parts of Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, as well as Sandy Hook in New Jersey.
- Offers beaches, hiking, birdwatching, and historic sites like Fort Tilden and Floyd Bennett Field.
Perfect for: A quick escape into nature while staying close to the city.
2. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Distance: ~75 miles (~1.5-2 hours drive)
Highlights:
- Located along the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border.
- Features stunning waterfalls, hiking trails (including parts of the Appalachian Trail), and the Delaware River for kayaking and fishing.
Perfect for: Outdoor recreation and scenic views.
3. Saratoga National Historical Park
Distance: ~180 miles (~3 hours drive)
Highlights:
- The site of the pivotal 1777 American victory during the Revolutionary War.
- Walking and biking trails with interpretive signs, plus scenic overlooks.
Perfect for: History buffs and nature lovers.
4. Shenandoah National Park
Distance: ~280 miles (~4.5-5 hours drive)
Highlights:
- Located in Virginia, featuring the famous Skyline Drive with stunning mountain views.
- Offers hiking, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Perfect for: A mountain getaway with breathtaking landscapes.
While some of these areas focus on recreation and historical significance, they offer fantastic opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities near NYC.
Now you can answer the question:”what is the closest national park to New York? It’s Gateway National Recreation Area.
The 4 Closest National Parks to NYC map
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