Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve is 265acre state park located near the southwestern shore of Staten Island, New York. It is the only state park located on Staten Island.HistoryThe park was the site of extensive mining of white kaolin clay in the 19th century that provided the raw material for bricks and terra cotta. After the abandonment of the quarrying operations, rainwater, natural springs, and vegetation filled in the pits. The preserve also contains archaeological evidence of settlements of the Lenape, early European settlers, and the Free Blacks of Sandy Ground.The park was created in 1977 after extensive lobbying by the Protectors of Pine Oak Woods, a local conservation organization.In October 2008, an interpretive center opened on Nielsen Avenue with exhibits on the history of the Charleston area and wildlife and plants found within the park. The groundbreaking for the $1.3 million nature center was held on May 4, 2007. The 3000sqft facility contains exhibit space, classrooms, and an outdoor pavilion.
