The site of extensive mining for white kaolin clay in the 19th century, the park's abandoned pits are now filled with rain and spring water and add to a unique composite of habitats. In addition to ponds, the preserve comprises wetlands, sand barrens, streams and woodlands. Designated a Bird Conservation Area, Clay Pit Ponds boasts 180 bird species, including 57 species of migratory songbirds.
260 acres
Rossville, Staten Island
Go to Google Maps, and enter your address for step-by-step directions to Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve. (This link will open a page outside the DEC website. Hold the "Shift" key down, and click on the link to open it in a new window.)
Telephone: 718-967-1976
Address: 83 Nielsen Avenue, Staten Island NY 10309
Website: Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve (This link leaves DEC's website)
Photo credits: OPRHP