Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve |
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| Type | State park |
| Location | 83 Nielsen Avenue Staten Island, New York |
| Nearest city | Staten Island, New York |
| Area | 265 acres (1.07 km2) |
| Created | 1977 |
| Operated by | New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation |
| Visitors | 25,343 (in 2014) |
| Open | All year |
| Website | Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve |
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve is a special natural area on Staten Island, New York. It covers about 265 acres (1.07 square kilometers). This park is the only state park you'll find on Staten Island! It's a great place to explore nature and learn about history.
Contents
A Look Back: The Park's Past
Digging for Clay: A Mining Story
Long ago, in the 1800s, people dug up a lot of white clay called kaolin clay here. This clay was used to make bricks and terra cotta, which is a type of baked clay used for building and art. After the mining stopped, the big holes filled up with rainwater and water from natural springs. Plants also grew, turning the old pits into new habitats.
Early People and Settlements
This area also holds clues about people who lived here a long time ago. Scientists have found archaeological evidence of the Lenape people, who were Native Americans. There are also signs of early European settlers and the Free Black community of Sandy Ground.
How the Park Was Created
The park was officially created in 1977. This happened after a local group called the Protectors of Pine Oak Woods worked very hard. They are a conservation organization, which means they work to protect nature.
The Nature Center
A new nature center was started on May 4, 2007. It cost about $1.3 million to build. In October 2008, the center opened its doors. It has cool exhibits about the history of the Charleston area. You can also learn about the amazing wildlife and plants that live in the park. This 3,000 square foot (279 square meter) building has exhibit rooms, classrooms, and an outdoor area.
Exploring Clay Pit Ponds: Nature and Activities
A Diverse Natural Habitat
Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve is a 265-acre (1.07 square kilometer) nature preserve. It has many different types of natural areas. You can find wetlands, ponds, sandy areas, streams fed by springs, and woodlands.
Unique Plants and Animals
The park is home to special plants like pitch pine trees. You might also spot rare wildflowers such as cranberry, lizard-tail, possumhaw, and bog twayblade. Many animals live here too! Keep an eye out for northern black racer snakes, box turtles, Fowler's toads, green frogs, and spring peepers. Over 170 different bird species have been seen in the park. You might even see deer!
Fun Things to Do in the Park
The main goal of the preserve is to protect its unique natural environment. It also offers fun ways to learn and play. You can join nature walks or programs about pond ecology. It's a great place for birdwatching. There are two hiking trails open to everyone: the Abraham's Pond Trail and the Ellis Swamp Trail. If you like horses, there are 5 miles (8 kilometers) of paths for horseback riding.
Protecting Special Areas
The park has two special areas that are set aside for endangered species. These areas are not open to the public. This helps keep the rare plants and animals safe and undisturbed.
