Group Programs
The Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center offers interactive exhibits and environmental education programs. Come learn about the Preserve's natural environment and rich history of the Lenape, the Free Blacks of Sandy Ground, the clay-miners, and organic farmer Herbert Gericke. Historical artifacts as well as wildlife specimens native to Staten Island's south shore are on display. Visitors can get up close and personal with live animals, enjoy the touch discovery station, look through a children's stereoscope or play in the kid's activity area. Be sure to venture outside and explore the miles of trails that wander among meadows, forests, wetlands, streams and to Sharrotts Pond.
The Interpretive Center offers environmental education programs year round for schools at all grade levels as well as interpretive programs, hikes, and themed walks for youth organizations and the general public. Contact the Center for more information on public, school, scout or camp programs.
Hours of Operation
- The Park Office, located at 83 Nielsen Ave, Staten Island, NY is open 9 AM - 5 PM daily. Phone: (718) 967-1976
The Preserve gounds are open dawn to dusk.
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- The Interpretive Center is open Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm and Sundays 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm with exhibits, classroom space, games and access to Preserve trails.
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Fees & Rates
- Program Fees
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- All programs are FREE of charge. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
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Tot Time
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Explore a different nature theme each week during this free play
group. Story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather
permitting. Click
here
to register!
Registration: Required
Seasonal Crafting for Seniors: Bird Feeders
Thursday, June 19, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Join us to make bird
feeders with recycled teacups and saucers or create your own design on a blank
canvas mug. All materials provided, but feel free to bring your own cups or
saucers. Socialize with peers and enjoy the scenery of our gorgeous park on an
optional hike. Ages 55+. Click
here
to register!
Registration: Required
Puppets in the Park
Saturday, June 21, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Enjoy our Plight of the
Pollinators performance! Learn all about pollination during a kid-friendly
puppet show. Show times are at 11:00am and 2:00pm. All ages. Click
here
to register!
Registration: Required
Puppets in the Park
Saturday, June 21, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center
Enjoy our Plight of the Pollinators performance! Learn all about pollination during a kid-friendly puppet show. Show times are at 11:00am and 2:00pm. All ages. Click
here to register!
Registration: Required