Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook, NJ – June 19-21, 2025

Join Leave No Trace at Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook, NJ – June 19-21, 2025

Each year we hand-select nominated outdoor spaces that need our collective care and attention. By designating them as Spotlights, we’re rallying the local community to step up, join forces with Leave No Trace, and make a meaningful impact that can revitalize and protect these special places where we recreate, enjoy one another’s company, and elevate our health physically, mentally and emotionally.

Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook, has been selected as a 2025 Leave No Trace Spotlight. The Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Team will be at Gateway National Recreation Area June 19-21, collaborating with hosts and partners on a variety of programs including stewardship projects, workshops, and community outreach.

Opportunities to Get Involved:

FRIDAY, JUNE 20: 

Leave No Trace Pop-up Education & Outreach,  11:00 am – 1:00 pm, Sandy Hook Beach B Plaza

Join Leave No Trace, the National Park Service (NPS), and partners for engaging and family-friendly outreach and education. Play quick games and activities to learn more about Leave No Trace and how to protect the beauty, wildlife, and special resources of Gateway National Recreation Area and all your favorite outdoor spaces.

Leave No Trace Trivia & Social Hour, 6:00 – 8:00  pm, Sandy Hook Chapel

Whether you are new to Leave No Trace or consider yourself an expert, join us for this family-friendly interactive game night to gauge your knowledge of Leave No Trace practices and principles while learning tips and techniques for protecting Gateway National Recreation Area and all your favorite outdoor spaces. Don’t miss this chance to participate in fun stewardship trivia and win some cool prizes! Advance sign up is encouraged but not required. 

SATURDAY, JUNE 21: 

Volunteer Stewardship Project – Beach Clean up at Gateway National Recreation Area,  9:30 – 11:30 am, Sandy Hook Beach B

Join Leave No Trace, NPS, and local partners for a fun, rewarding, and family-friendly volunteer project. Help keep the park clean, safe, and beautiful by helping to pick up litter and clean up the shoreline along the beach at Sandy Hook Bay. Volunteers will be introduced to Leave No Trace and learn more about stewardship education.

Important information: 

– Parking Fees apply ($20 per day or valid 2025 Sandy Hook Beach Season Parking Pass). All toll booths are cashless and accept credit, debit and contactless payment only.
– Bring water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen. Dress for the weather in clothes that can get dirty. Closed-toed shoes are required.
– Registration closes 12PM the day before the cleanup date or when registration is full. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
– Limit waste by bringing your own bucket and gloves if you have them – but don’t worry if you don’t, we’ll have some supplies on site for you to use.
– Work may entail bending, kneeling, crouching, and walking on difficult sandy terrain.

All individuals participating MUST fill out a Volunteer Service Agreement, available either at the registration portal in advance or to sign upon arrival to the site.

Leave No Trace Spotlights Proud Partners