Clay Pit Ponds Preserve - Are We There Yet?

This 250 acre natural area near the southwest shore of Staten Island was once the site of a clay mining operation. Today the Park supports a variety of habitats such as wetlands, fields, sandy barrens, spring-fed streams, and woodlands. The area is rich in plant and animal life.

Nature-related programming is offered year-round, free of charge for Families and Individuals. A calendar is available on request.

Guided and Self-Guided Nature Walks, Pond Ecology, Bird Watching, Tree and Wildflower Identification, and nature-related arts and crafts are among the many great activities families will enjoy here.

Various School Programs are available for ages 3 through adult and cover such subjects as, "Tuning In" to the natural environment; Plant and Animal Adaptations; Geological Processes that created the clays and sands of the area; Discovery of Life and activity during the winter season; and many others.

Clay Pit Ponds offers exceptional opportunities for families and School Groups wanting an educational outdoor experience.

Hours: Grounds open daily from dawn to dusk. Interpretive Center is open Tuesday - Saturday from 9am - 4:30pm, with exhibits, classroom space, games, and access to Preserve trails. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Hours subject to change. Call to confirm.

Admission:

FREE, including programs.

Groups:

FREE.

Group Reservations: At least 3 weeks in advance.

Lunch: Bagged lunch may be eaten at tables near Park Headquarters.

Handicapped Access: Partial.

Directions: Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to I-278 west to Verrazano Bridge to Rt. 440 south (West Shore Expressway). 5 miles to exit 3. Turn left onto Bloomingdale Rd. Then turn right onto Sharrot's Rd. (Sleepy Hollow Inn) to Carlin St. Right onto Carlin and follow to end.