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1760s era lighthouse located at the Gateway National Recreational Area in Sandy Hook
Historic Site | National Park

Sandy Hook

A strategic location for the defense of New York's harbor, the Continentals failed to reinforce this peninsula, leading to the city's capture in August of 1776. A lighthouse dating to 1764 still operates there today, once serving as a Loyalist fortification.

  • Parking
  • Restrooms
  • Wheelchair Accessible
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New Jersey
84 Mercer Road Highlands, NJ 07732
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Upcoming Events

Salt marsh with houses along shoreline in horizon and a clear blue sky
Event | Aug 28 - Sep 25, 2026
Jamaica Bay Book Club
Highlands, NJ
Come join us for our book club! We will be reading selections of nature-themed literature, and together think critically about nature literature and our place in the natural world. This will be an...
Group of people hiking on sand
Event | Aug 28, 2026
Sandy Hook In Motion
Highlands, NJ
Take an evening guided walk along Fisherman’s Trail as the moon rises over Sandy Hook. Follow Sandy Hook in motion, moving through sand, tides, history, wildlife, and people, until everything meets at...
Kayaker on the water
Event | Aug 28, 2026
Little Egg Marsh Excursion
Highlands, NJ
There’s nothing “little” about the vistas of this open water paddle across the bay to see a remarkable part of the refuge tucked between West Broad Channel and Beach Channel. Dress to get wet, wear...
Parlor with furniture from the 1940s.
Event | Aug 28 - Sep 28, 2026
Sandy Hook History House
Highlands, NJ
Built in 1898 and designated a lieutenant’s quarters on Officers Row, History House is furnished to the WWII era, the busiest time in the fort’s history. Enjoy this unique experience at your own pace...
Line of lanterns
Tour | Aug 28, 2026
Fort Tompkins Lantern Tour
Highlands, NJ
Explore Fort Wadsworth after sunset on our Lantern Tour! Rangers will lead you through the dark rooms and passages of Fort Tompkins. Along the way, you will learn about the history of the fort and...
Kayaks on shore
Event | Aug 28, 2026
Mill Basin Beginner Paddle
Highlands, NJ
Enjoy this easygoing paddle along the basin’s shoreline and perhaps glimpse roiling bunker or horses on the far shoreline. Dress to get wet, wear shoes that will not fall off, and bring water...

Uncovering History

We invite you to visit the preserved locations along the Liberty Trail and to immerse
yourself in the extraordinary events that determined the fate of a nation.

A modern-day photo fo Camden Battlefield
Battlefields

Discover the historic fields, farms, and forests across The Liberty Trail where pivotal battles were fought and the foundations of our nation were forged.
Revolutionary War reenactment showing three riders on horses
Events

Discover all The Liberty Trail has to offer through local festivals, re-enactments and community events.
Kershaw House. Two stories of white siding levels with large porches on a brick foundation
Historic Sites

Journey through The Liberty Trail’s rich historical sites to uncover their pivotal roles in securing America’s independence.
Minute Man National Battlefield Park
Tours

Discover The Liberty Trail through immersive guided tours—right at your fingertips.
Trail view from Old Santee Canal Park
State Parks

Discover The Liberty Trail’s diverse parks and forests, where both Loyalists and Patriots once ventured.
Six individuals kayaking
Outdoor Activities

Whether you hike, bike, boat, fish or golf, find all your favorite outdoor fun.