Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve is a nature preserve with ponds, wetlands, and sandy areas spread across Staten Island. The landscape is crossed by woodland trails and features spring-fed streams alongside open grassland areas.

During the 1800s, the site was mined for white kaolin clay, with large pits dug out of the ground. These abandoned excavations gradually filled with water and became the natural ponds seen today.

The land carries traces of the Leni Lenape people who lived here long before European arrival. Later, the residents of Sandy Ground, a community of free Black settlers, established themselves nearby and left their own marks on this region's story.

The Nature Interpretive Center is open Tuesday through Saturday and offers free educational programs about local wildlife. Visit during spring or fall to see the most bird activity, as these seasons bring the largest number of passing migrants.

The preserve is an official Bird Conservation Area hosting about 180 bird species, many of them migratory songbirds passing through. This abundance of species makes it a magnet for bird watchers and nature lovers throughout the year.

Location: Staten Island

Inception: 1977

Address: 83 Nielsen Avenue

Website: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/claypitponds/details.aspx

GPS coordinates: 40.53300,-74.23300

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41