Clay Pit Ponds State Park

Great trails. What a way to escape the hustle and bustle and just take in nature for a few hours. On this trip we saw deer, countless birds, a snake and a red fox but he was to quick to get a photo of. I suggest going on a dry day and not after a rain storm so you can really enjoy.

The park has beautiful peacocks, chickens and all kinds of birds. Did not come across a fox but the ranger told me there are a couple of fox families living there.

We took a brief break here as we were driving by. There’s a nice simple lobby that gives you the history and community basics of Clay Pit Pond State Park. The trail behind the right rear of the building is kind of hidden, but work your way around to that one. Or take the the road off to the left through the maintenance area across the nearby street and you end up at a nice pond for a quiet nature break.

Nice, easy walking trails right in your backyard. They are super quiet and peaceful. Multiple connecting trails and ones that are round. All of the trails are superbly marked.

Great secluded park in Staten Island. Deer preserve is amazing, hundreds of deer in the park. Some walking trails as well. Great place to forget you are on Staten Island for awhile

Another great nature preserve on SI. Plenty of easy hiking trails & they are all visibly marked. Lots of wildlife.

I consider it local so I am here often.
Park is big and beautiful. I know that there are nicer parks, but worth a visit.

Trails are great. We met a hiker from Brooklyn and he loved hiking here because there's nothing like it where he's from. The guided hikes are great too. Very informative. They even offer private group events for schools and Scouts.

Secluded and trails are good.

Another well kept secret in Staten Island. Easily navigated marked and widened trails. This is a park you can safely walk alone. Horses also use these trails. Abundant deer. Great place to meditate. Peaceful, quiet.

This is a really good park. Since this is a preserve there is animals around like deer or special birds. There is also a great entertaining shed that is made of pure tree wood. Oak tree. Inside there is a lot of animals like frogs lizards snakes etc. Do not worry, they are in the cage, obviously. There is also a room with tables and chairs. You can sit down and enjoy the view. Bring lunch and have fun. There are hosts and workers that care for the animals and will guide you through the park. They care for the plants off all kind. It is really big and gorgeous. The shed comes with a room with animals a room were you can relax and a bathroom. Outside, there are benches. There are no limits you can climb walk run and explore all you want! You have got to go there it is so fun. If you go out far enough you will see the 440 highway and Englewood Avenue there is a trail you can follow. down .into the forest. But there is ticks so be careful. But overall have fun and be wild and adventurous!

A hidden gem on Staten Island. You will not believe this sort of preservation is within one of the five boroughs. It is known to locals of course but not heavily frequented. Lots of deer to be seen; walking trails, ponds and various wild life and streams. Once you are five minutes into it feels like a place far far away.

My fav park on the island 🏝. Great for Forest bathing and time away to connect with nature and recharge. Amazing friendly staff. No dogs allowed so don't have to worry about dog skat. =D

Wonderful trail. Very saddening that the citizens of the Borough don't indulge more in the parks and trails on SI.

A place to go where the hikes are well laid out, thanks to the Boys Scouts of America. Took my den out there and they had a blast. Families would love it too!

Nice green park with lots of deers

Great local find. Went to a maple syrup tree sap class - sorry, it was the last of the season. Fun and educational. Great place for hiking and lots of events for public.

A hidden gem. If you looking to hike in solitude, look no further. Well marked paths, ponds, abandoned road - what not to like? And very helpful and approachable staff.

Great place, nothing like the outdoors to get away from it all. Love watching deer 🦌 hopefully one day we will have a view hunting season on Staten Island

Beautiful state park with easy walking trails.