Celebrate National Public Lands Day at beautiful Sandy Hook by lending a hand at our park clean-up! Volunteers will enjoy views of natural, cultural, and/or historical resources while they remove litter and debris, helping protect native habitats and minimize debris around the park. This is a fun family-friendly volunteer opportunity, and volunteers of all ages are welcome.

CLEANUP INFORMATION

When: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 2-4PM

Where: Gateway National Recreation Area – Sandy Hook Unit. Meet at Fishing Beach – Area F Road. Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/v2GFgG233qhMso9d9

Register: Capacity: 50 participants. If you are interested in volunteering for this event, adults 18+ can register on Volunteer.gov. If you would like for a group to attend (work, school, organizations, etc.), please review the “groups” section. Registration closes 12PM the day before the cleanup date or when registration is full.

Parking Fees: No Fees. Parking is along the right-hand shoulder ONLY.

Special Information: Arrive before 2PM and complete your Volunteer Service Agreement Form. The park cleanup introduction and safety briefing will begin shortly after 2PM. Cleanup begins immediately after. This cleanup requires individuals to walk on difficult sandy terrain.

Supplies: We invite volunteers to bring their own reusable supplies! 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.

GROUPS

Groups of five or more require special arrangements and must be confirmed in advance. Please reach out to Mikayla_Turner@nps.gov to be approved to join this cleanup event.

AGE, SKILLS, & WHAT TO BRING:

Complete your Volunteer Service Agreement Form (PDF). All individuals participating MUST fill out a Volunteer Service Agreement. Volunteers under the age of 18 MUST have the parent/guardian approval section signed and a parent/guardian present. Volunteer Service Agreements will be available to sign upon arrival to the site. You may also download a copy of the 301a Volunteer Service Agreement Form and fill out in advance of coming to save time upon arrival.

Wear clothes that can get dirty. Closed-toe shoes are required. Headphones are not permitted during the cleanup. Bring layers for changing weather and rain gear if necessary. Inclement weather, extreme heat, and/or thunder/lightning cancels the event. Volunteers who register on Volunteer.gov will receive notification about cancelations.

Bring a personal water bottle, sunscreen, hat, and snacks.

No experience necessary. Training and tools will be provided. Fulfills community service requirements.

Parking & Fees: No Fees. Parking is along the right-hand shoulder ONLY. Gateway National Recreation Area – Sandy Hook Unit. Meet at Fishing Beach – Area F Road. Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/v2GFgG233qhMso9d9