Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve

Parks don’t move, you know. Preserves stay, if we manage to keep thy intact.
But yet, somehow, ylp managed to screw’up old listing for this one… And while park did not move, listing did. So, I am re-​posting my old review — with few additions, since I did come back here, many times, and over again…
My exploration of Staten Island parks, preserves & greenbelt brought me to my next destination — Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve.
First time I came here, the main gate were closed, but I got an amazing up-​and-​close encounter with white-​tailed deer, that came right to the wooden barrier.
On my next visit I was determined to walk the trails and see all that this park has to offer. I came on holiday — it was open and very quiet. No one was around except me and the wilderness…
.And time after time, I am coming here… On weird days, on rainy days, when noone is around, when deer running wild, with those white rabbit-​like tails up in the air… When rain drops lend on my camera and on my nose, just to make me laugh. When streams are full of life, and greenery is all washed and bright…
This place is truly unique — with all the parks on the island, I assure you, this is the best place to bird-​watch or encounter wild life.
There are hawks, and cuckoos, turtles and frogs, rabbits and, of course, large numbers of white-​tailed deer. The latter ones are absolutely adorable with those white tails up in the wind as they walk and run around!
There are few easy hike trails — it is more recreational and relaxing than actual hard core hiking. Ponds, bogs & swamp add to the charm.
(Horseback riding permitted on certain trails as well!)
Trails are incredibly well-​maintained — with wooden bridges over ponds, and benches in few key areas so you can take a break and watch ‘em turtles.
I feel like I am turning into turtle walking here — slow hike, breath of fresh air and not a worry on my mind.
This is serene.