Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center

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Address
2351 Veteran’s Road West
Staten Island, NY 10309

New York City Region

Latitude 40.53758

Longitude -74.225349

Directions

General Information: (718) 605-3970 ext 201

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Interpretive Center at Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve

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.
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.

Fees & Rates

Program Fees
All programs are FREE of charge. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Tue 14 Jan

Tot Time
Tuesday, January 14, 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

Thu 16 Jan

Seasonal Crafting for Seniors: Aromatherapy Hand Warmers
Thursday, January 16, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center

Make a small, reusable, pocket size warmer for minor aches needing warm attention. Socialize with peers and enjoy the scenery of our gorgeous park on an optional hike. All materials provided. Ages 55+. Click here to register. Future date: Wood-burned Tree Cookie Coasters 2/13/25.

Registration: Required

Sat 18 Jan

Art in the Park: Winter Wonderland Crafts
Saturday, January 18, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center

Join us to make snowmen, penguins, and snowflakes that belong in a winter wonderland! All materials provided. Drop in anytime. All ages. Click here to register.

Registration: Required

Tue 21 Jan

Tot Time
Tuesday, January 21, 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

Sat 25 Jan

Maple Tap Fest
Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center

Learn how to tap maple trees during this volunteer event! We will be tapping every tree we will use for the entire 2025 maple syrup season. Includes up to 1-mile hike. Ages 6+. Registration required. Click here register - note tickets go on sale Jan 6th at 9am.

Registration: Required

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Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation