New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden at Snug Harbor on Staten Island, photographed May 1, 2025.

Outdoors

Picnic spots near Staten Island

Day-use and picnic areas near Staten Island on public land, from quick drives to full-day outings.

12picnic areas
8 mito the closest
5within 30 miles
April–Octoberbest months

Good to know: Group picnic sites can often be reserved; fire rules change with the season, so check before bringing a grill.

Closest picks

1

National Parks of New York Harbor

8 mi northeast · 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.

2

Statue Of Liberty National Monument

9 mi northeast · National Park Service

A gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States "Liberty Enlightening the World" is recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. It was dedicated by President Grover Cleveland on October 28, 1886.

3

Ellis Island Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument

10 mi northeast · National Park Service

Millions of Americans and people around the world have ancestors who came through Ellis Island. The Main Immigration Building was the epicenter of one of the greatest migrations in modern history.

Map of all 12 places

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Within 30 miles (5)

8 mi northeast · National Park Service

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

9 mi northeast · National Park Service

Statue Of Liberty National Monument

A gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States "Liberty Enlightening the World" is recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. It was dedicated by President Grover Cleveland on October 28, 1886.

  • Boating
  • Picnicking

10 mi northeast · National Park Service

Ellis Island Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument

Millions of Americans and people around the world have ancestors who came through Ellis Island. The Main Immigration Building was the epicenter of one of the greatest migrations in modern history.

  • Picnicking

10 mi northeast · National Park Service

Governors Island National Monument

From 1794 to 1966, the U.S. Army presence on Governors Island played a vital role in the social, political, and economic life of New York City. The island then served as the headquarters of the U.S.

  • Biking
  • Picnicking

12 mi southeast · National Park Service · Campground

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 (5)

40 mi northeast · National Park Service

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Sagamore Hill was the home of Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, from 1885 until his death in 1919. During Roosevelt's time in office, his "Summer White House" was the focus of international attention.

  • Biking
  • Hiking
  • History
  • Picnicking
  • Wildlife viewing

46 mi west · National Park Service

Lower Delaware National Wild and Scenic River

The Delaware River, the largest free-flowing river in the eastern United States, runs past forests, farmlands and villages. It also links some of the most densely populated regions in America.

  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Paddling
  • Picnicking

56 mi northwest · National Park Service

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Situated within the most densely populated region of the United States, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area provides a unique opportunity to experience tranquil landscapes, rich human history, and striking scenery along 40 miles of…

  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Climbing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • History
  • Horseback riding
  • Hunting

68 mi south · National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve, at Mullica River and Great Bay, is the only reserve in the national system to be named after an individual.

  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Paddling
  • Photography
  • Picnicking
  • Swimming

68 mi east · Fish and Wildlife Service

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge

Established in 1947, Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge protects 2,550 acres on the south shore of Long Island.

  • Birding
  • Boating
  • Cross Country Skiing
  • Educational Programs
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • History
  • Hunting

75 miles and farther (2)

86 mi northeast · US Army Corps of Engineers · Campground

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

94 mi northeast · US Army Corps of Engineers · Campground

Northfield Brook Lake Group Shelters

Northfield Brook Lake Group Shelters are located along a small scenic lake in the Naugatuck Valley of west-central Connecticut.

  • Biking
  • Birding
  • Camping
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • History
  • Kayaking

Distances are straight-line miles from downtown Staten Island. Listings come from Recreation.gov’s federal recreation database; check each official page for hours, fees, fire restrictions and closures before you go.

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More outdoors near Staten Island

Questions

Where is the closest place for picnic spots near Staten Island?

National Parks of New York Harbor (National Park Service), about 8 miles northeast of Staten Island as the crow flies. Next are Statue Of Liberty National Monument (9 mi) and Ellis Island Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument (10 mi).

When is the best time for picnic spots near Staten Island?

Based on Staten Island’s average highs, April–October. Conditions at higher elevations can be much cooler.

Who manages these places?

Federal agencies including National Park Service, US Army Corps of Engineers, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Each listing links to its official page for hours, fees, closures and current conditions.

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