National Parks of New York Harbor
4 mi south · National Park Service
These 12 sites preserve more than 400 years of American history! We invite you to explore the past and investigate its relevance in our lives today.
Outdoors
Swimming holes and lakes near Jersey City
Lakes, rivers and beaches near Jersey City where swimming is allowed on public land.
6places to swim
4 mito the closest
3within 30 miles
June–Septemberbest months
Good to know: Most natural swimming areas have no lifeguard; check water-quality advisories and current conditions before swimming.
Closest picks
Gateway National Recreation Area
12 mi southeast · National Park Service
Spanning 27,000 acres from Sandy Hook in New Jersey to Breezy Point in New York City, the park is both the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, and the gateway to the National Park Service for millions of visitors every year.
Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook
19 mi south · National Park Service
Welcome to Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook Unit! There are a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities available at the park including history tours, living history demonstrations, hiking, birding, kayaking, camping,…
Map of all 6 places
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Within 30 miles (3)
National Parks of New York Harbor
These 12 sites preserve more than 400 years of American history! We invite you to explore the past and investigate its relevance in our lives today.
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- History
- Paddling
- Picnicking
Gateway National Recreation Area
Spanning 27,000 acres from Sandy Hook in New Jersey to Breezy Point in New York City, the park is both the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, and the gateway to the National Park Service for millions of visitors every year.
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Paddling
- Swimming
Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook
Welcome to Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook Unit! There are a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities available at the park including history tours, living history demonstrations, hiking, birding, kayaking, camping,…
- Biking
- Birding
- Boating
- Camping
- Canoeing
- Cultural Activities
- Evening Programs
- Fishing
30 to 75 miles (3)
Alosa Campsites
The Alosa Campsites are boat-in only sites located on the west (Pennsylvanian) shore of the Delaware River near Bushkill, Pennsylvania. The side of the river with the campsites will be on your right while traveling downstream.
- Boating
- Camping
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming
Fire Island National Seashore
Immerse yourself in an enchanting collage of coastal life and history. Rhythmic waves, high dunes, ancient maritime forests, historic landmarks and glimpses of wildlife, Fire Island has been a special place for diverse plants, animals and…
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- History
- Hunting
- Swimming
- Wildlife viewing
Hop Brook Lake Recreation Area
Hop Brook Lake Recreation Area is located within the towns of Middlebury, Naugatuck and Waterbury, Connecticut. Its 536 acres provide excellent recreation opportunities and a chance to escape from the growing suburbia surrounding the park.
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Canoeing
- Cross Country Skiing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Kayaking
Distances are straight-line miles from downtown Jersey City. Listings come from Recreation.gov’s federal recreation database; check each official page for hours, fees, fire restrictions and closures before you go.
Get outside around Jersey City
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Visit The Liberty Science Center
An activity Short shared by Strides & Scenes.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Water’s Soul in Jersey City
An activity Short shared by NJ.com.
Watch on YouTube ↗Around Jersey City
More outdoors near Jersey City
Questions
Where is the closest place for swimming near Jersey City?
National Parks of New York Harbor (National Park Service), about 4 miles south of Jersey City as the crow flies. Next are Gateway National Recreation Area (12 mi) and Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook (19 mi).
When is the best time for swimming near Jersey City?
Based on Jersey City’s average highs, June–September. Conditions at higher elevations can be much cooler.
Who manages these places?
Federal agencies including National Park Service, US Army Corps of Engineers. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.