Discover the Natural Beauty of Staten Island
Hidden from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Staten Island is often called the “forgotten borough.” However, locals know it as a hidden paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With more green space per capita than any other borough in NYC, Staten Island is the perfect place for New Yorkers to relax, hike, and enjoy nature without leaving the city.
From winding woodland trails to serene shorelines, the borough’s diverse natural areas make it a standout destination for hikers, birdwatchers, kayakers, and families looking for open-air adventures. With over 12,000 acres of parkland, it’s a place where the outdoors truly comes alive.
This guide will walk you through Staten Island’s top parks and outdoor activities — from lush forests to family-friendly beaches. Whether new to the borough or a lifelong resident, there’s always something new to discover.
Staten Island Greenbelt: The Borough’s Natural Core
The Staten Island Greenbelt is not just a park — it’s a massive natural preserve stretching across the borough’s heart. With more than 2,800 acres, it’s the largest continuous stretch of forest in NYC, connecting several smaller parks and natural areas into one green corridor.
The Greenbelt is a sanctuary for those seeking solitude, scenic beauty, or a workout in the great outdoors. It offers over 35 hiking trails, including challenging backcountry routes and easy walking loops. The trails are marked and well-maintained; many are shaded by towering oak and hickory trees.
This urban forest is home to High Rock Park, a quiet area with rustic charm, glacial ponds, and rich biodiversity. You’ll find Moses’ Mountain, an elevated viewpoint built from excavated soil during highway construction. You can enjoy a peaceful view of the treetops from the summit and even spot the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge on clear days.
The Staten Island Greenbelt Nature Center also provides educational resources, interactive exhibits, and guided hikes, making it a great spot for families and students.
Local tip: Visit in early spring to hear the chorus of peeper frogs or in autumn when the leaves transform the trails into a vibrant, fiery tunnel.
Clove Lakes Park: A Local Favorite for All Ages
Clove Lakes Park is a beloved urban escape between Victory Boulevard and Forest Avenue. Known for its three interconnected lakes and rich wildlife, this park offers active and passive recreation for all ages.
The central lake is the park’s heart, where visitors can rent paddleboats or rowboats and glide across calm waters. Swans, turtles, and ducks are frequent companions on the lake, adding a sense of serenity. For those who prefer to stay on land, paved trails wind through the park’s rolling hills, connecting picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports courts.
One of Clove Lakes Park’s lesser-known treasures is its ancient tulip tree, which stands at an impressive height and is believed to be over three centuries old. It’s among the oldest living trees in New York City and symbolizes the resilience of nature in urban settings.
Clove Lakes is also a hotspot for casual joggers and fitness enthusiasts. The paths are wide and shaded, making them ideal for a morning run or a peaceful stroll with your dog.
Insider tip: Early mornings are magical here — the mist over the lake, chirping birds, and soft light through the trees create a perfect start to your day.
Willowbrook Park: Fishing, Picnics, and Carousel Rides
Willowbrook Park, located just off Richmond Avenue, is part of the Greenbelt network but stands out for its unique family-friendly features and tranquil lakefront views.
The park’s centerpiece is Willowbrook Lake, a 5-acre body of water where you can fish for bass, sunfish, and perch. It’s stocked annually and open to all ages — check the local fishing regulations and bring your gear.
A highlight for children is the Carousel for All Children, a beautifully crafted, fully accessible ride that features hand-painted animals native to Staten Island — including foxes, turtles, and owls. It’s a fun ride and an artistic tribute to the borough’s rich natural heritage.
Willowbrook also offers wide-open fields perfect for soccer, kite-flying, or simply laying down a blanket and soaking up the sun. The shaded picnic groves with tables and BBQ grills make it a prime location for weekend get-togethers.
Bonus activity: Explore the adjacent hiking trails that lead into the deeper woods of the Greenbelt. It’s a great way to combine leisure with a little adventure.
Freshkills Park: Nature Rising From Renewal
Freshkills Park is a testament to environmental resilience and transformation. Once the largest landfill in the world, this sprawling site is being restored into a thriving natural space three times the size of Central Park.
While the park is still under phased development, visitors can already enjoy limited public access through guided hikes, biking tours, kayaking events, and seasonal open days. The landscape features rolling hills, open meadows, tidal wetlands, and sweeping views of Staten Island’s western shore.
Wildlife has made a strong comeback here. Over 200 bird species, including ospreys, kestrels, and grasshopper sparrows, have been recorded. Native grasses and wildflowers attract pollinators and give the hillsides a painterly texture in late summer.
Freshkills is not only a place to enjoy nature but also to learn about it. The park’s planners are building an environmental education hub focused on renewable energy, landfill engineering, and sustainability.
Plan: Check the NYC Parks calendar for Freshkills tours or kayak events. It’s a surreal and uplifting experience to stand on land that was once wasted and now hums with new life.
Great Kills Park: A Coastal Escape
Great Kills Park is your best bet for craving salt air and sea views. This expansive waterfront area offers everything from sandy beaches to birdwatching spots, making it one of Staten Island’s most diverse natural environments.
Part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, Great Kills includes a protected marina, tidal salt marshes, biking trails, and several points for swimming and sunbathing during the warmer months. Lifeguards are typically present at designated swim areas, and there’s plenty of parking nearby.
Boaters and anglers especially love the park. Kayakers can launch from the beach or marina and paddle through gentle waters while fishermen line the piers hoping to catch bluefish, striped bass, or fluke.
Birdwatchers will find an oasis here — the marshlands host egrets, herons, and migratory species that stop by in spring and fall. Don’t forget binoculars and a camera.
Ideal for Sunset walks, early morning fishing, and weekend picnics with a waterfront view.
Conference House Park: History and Shoreline Views
Located at the southernmost tip of Staten Island, Conference House Park is where history meets nature. It’s named after the historic Conference House, a colonial stone manor where a failed peace negotiation was held during the Revolutionary War.
But this park is more than a historical site — it’s also a sprawling coastal preserve with grassy fields, maritime forests, and beach trails along the Raritan Bay. It’s a quiet, scenic spot with far fewer crowds than more central parks.
The beach itself is rugged and natural, making it a great place for tidepool exploration and fossil hunting with kids. Visitors often spot monarch butterflies during their migration or stumble upon driftwood sculptures created by the waves.
Weekend activity idea: Take a historical tour of the Conference House, then walk the shoreline trail to clear your mind and catch a sea breeze.
Blue Heron Park Preserve: Tranquil and Undisturbed
Blue Heron Park Preserve is a perfect match for those looking to escape the noise and find inner peace. This 222-acre preserve lies in the South Shore and features a mix of swamps, meadows, and forests.
What makes it special is its commitment to preserving fragile wetland habitats. Elevated boardwalks and soft trails guide visitors through moss-covered woods, sparkling ponds, and past observation decks built for wildlife viewing.
As the name suggests, blue herons are common, especially at dawn and dusk. In the spring, the park blooms with wildflowers, while fall brings a rust-colored palette that’s perfect for photography.
There’s no playground or food stands here — that’s the point. This is a place for contemplation, quiet reflection, or journaling beneath a tree canopy.
Pro tip: Bring a thermos of coffee and arrive early to hear the forest wake up with bird songs and rustling leaves.
Wolfe’s Pond Park: One Stop for Everything
Wolfe’s Pond Park is the ultimate “do-it-all” destination. With a beach, forested trails, athletic fields, dog runs, and picnic areas, it caters to just about every kind of park-goer.
On hot days, the small beach attracts sunbathers and swimmers looking for a low-key shoreline experience. Once a vital source of fresh water, the nearby pond adds a tranquil backdrop to wooded paths, perfect for walking or biking.
The park also includes tennis and basketball courts, soccer fields, and multiple playgrounds, making it great for families and groups. Dogs have their off-leash area, so your furry friends can enjoy some freedom, too.
Weekend itinerary: Start with a beach stroll, hike through the trails, grab lunch at a picnic bench, then let the kids enjoy the playground while you relax.
Outdoor Activities Beyond the Parks
While Staten Island’s parks are the crown jewels, the borough offers even more outdoor adventures if you want to switch things up. These activities highlight the island’s natural diversity, from biking trails to waterfront excursions.
Staten Island Ferry Ride
Though technically a transit route, the Staten Island Ferry offers one of the most scenic and relaxing rides in the entire city — and it’s completely free. Whether a first-time visitor or a local looking for a mental reset, the 25-minute journey across New York Harbor gives you unbeatable views of the Statue of Liberty, Lower Manhattan, and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. It’s especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. You don’t even need a plan — hop on, enjoy the ride, and let the wind do the talking.
Biking the Staten Island Greenway
Cyclists will love the Staten Island Greenway, a 10-mile bike-friendly path network connecting neighborhoods to major parks. Whether commuting or just riding for fun, you’ll pass through wooded trails, quiet side streets, and the occasional waterfront lookout. The greenway isn’t just scenic — it’s also a practical way to explore the borough without traffic stress.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
If you enjoy being on the water, Staten Island’s calm coastlines are ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding. Launch from Lemon Creek Marina, Great Kills Harbor, or certain areas near Conference House Park. These shallow, protected areas offer a gentle environment perfect for beginners and wildlife watchers. It’s common to spot egrets, cormorants, or even the occasional seal if you’re lucky.
Guided Nature Events and Walks
Many of Staten Island’s parks — especially those in the Greenbelt — offer guided nature walks, birdwatching groups, and educational workshops throughout the year. Led by naturalists, these events are great for kids, photography enthusiasts, and anyone curious about local flora and fauna. Check out the Greenbelt Conservancy or NYC Parks Events Calendar to stay updated.
Seasonal Tips for Enjoying Staten Island Outdoors
Staten Island’s beauty isn’t limited to one season — every part of the year offers a fresh perspective. Here’s how to make the most of it, no matter the time of year.
Spring: Bursting Into Bloom
Spring is when the borough wakes up. Trails are lined with budding trees, migrating birds return, and local ponds shimmer under softer sunlight. Visit Blue Heron Park or Willowbrook Park for the best-blooming dogwoods and daffodil displays. This season is also ideal for fishing since many parks have begun stocking ponds.
Summer: Beach Days and Boating
Summer brings longer days and warm weather — perfect for visiting Great Kills Park, Wolfe’s Pond, or Midland Beach. Bring sunscreen, snacks, and your sense of adventure. Paddleboarding, kayaking, or even a relaxing ferry ride can help you beat the heat while enjoying the outdoors.
Fall: Foliage and Festivals
Come fall, Staten Island transforms into a painter’s palette. Hike Moses’ Mountain or walk through Clove Lakes Park to enjoy fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. This season is also packed with outdoor festivals, harvest fairs, and pumpkin-picking events in nearby farms — perfect for families and Instagram-worthy moments.
Winter: Quiet Trails and Snowy Scenes
Don’t underestimate winter. On snow-dusted trails, places like High Rock Park and LaTourette Park become quiet wonderlands. Bundle up and bring thermoses of hot chocolate. For a fun twist, some hills at Clove Lakes offer sledding opportunities for kids. Just be sure to check trail conditions and dress in layers.
How to Be a Respectful Outdoor Visitor
Enjoying the outdoors comes with a shared responsibility: leave it better than you found it. Staten Island’s parks thrive thanks to decades of community care and environmental stewardship. To keep them beautiful for everyone:
- Stay on marked trails to protect fragile habitats
- Never litter — even biodegradable items like food scraps can harm local wildlife
- Keep dogs leashed unless in designated areas, and always clean up after them
- Observe wildlife from a distance — no feeding, chasing, or touching
- Respect quiet zones, especially in nature preserves like Blue Heron or Freshkills
Joining local clean-up efforts or conservation events is another great way to give back while enjoying nature. Remember: when you protect the parks, you also protect your mental space.
Embracing Nature in Staten Island: A Breath of Fresh Air
Nature isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a source of healing, inspiration, and connection. Staten Island offers all of that and more. Whether scaling Moses’ Mountain, paddling through Great Kills Harbor, or watching herons glide above a quiet marsh, there’s always something to remind you of the natural beauty beyond your doorstep.
More than just “the green borough,” Staten Island is a living, breathing example of how nature and city life can coexist. And with so many parks to explore, trails to hike, and shores to discover, there’s never been a better time to get outside.
So next time you’re looking for fresh air, skip the screens, grab your walking shoes, and rediscover the joy of the outdoors — here in Staten Island.
FAQs: Exploring Staten Island’s Nature, Culture, and Attractions
What are the top Nature & Parks attractions in Staten Island for outdoor enthusiasts?
Staten Island is a dream for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of Nature & Parks attractions that combine scenic beauty with recreational fun. From serene trails to stunning waterfront views, there’s something for everyone.
Top spots include:
- Staten Island Greenbelt – Explore over 2,800 acres of serene trails, including the famous blue trails, with breathtaking views and wooded pathways.
- Staten Island Botanical Garden – Located in Snug Harbor, this is a perfect spot for relaxation, featuring beautiful gardens, seasonal blooms, and Japanese-inspired landscaping.
- Clove Lakes Park – Ideal for walking, bike riding, or paddling while taking in scenic views of the lakes and forests.
- Staten Island Zoo – Great for families, featuring exotic animals and special events year-round.
Staten Island delivers a serene beauty unmatched in the city, whether you’re into hiking, wildlife spotting, or relaxing with amazing views.
How does Staten Island’s rich history attract history buffs and cultural explorers?
Staten Island has a rich history that spans centuries, making it a top destination for history buffs and culture seekers. Its blend of history, architecture, and educational experiences offers a deeper understanding of New York’s early roots.
Key historical sites:
- Historic Richmond Town – A living history village showcasing 17th–19th-century buildings, with actors in period attire and seasonal events that bring the past to life.
- Staten Island Museum – Features history exhibits, art exhibits, and rotating cultural events exploring local and global stories.
- Ellis Island – While not on Staten Island, it’s accessible via ferry and closely tied to the immigration history that many Staten Islanders share.
- Staten Island Boat Graveyard – For the curious and adventurous, this site offers stunning views of shipwrecks that whisper tales of maritime history.
These locations aren’t just informative but immersive, offering spectacular views and unforgettable stories.
What are the best spots on Staten Island for stunning and panoramic views?
For panoramic views and stunning waterfront views, Staten Island is hard to beat. Whether exploring hills, parks, or coastal edges, you’ll find countless spots offering beautiful views of nature and cityscapes.
Top picks include:
- Moses’ Mountain in the Staten Island Greenbelt – Offers breathtaking views from one of the highest natural points in NYC.
- Fort Wadsworth – Overlooks the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and New York Harbor, giving you spectacular views across the water.
- Alice Austen House – A public park with artistic heritage and stunning views of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn.
- South Beach Boardwalk – Ideal for a stroll or bike riding, with amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean.
These are great for sightseeing and perfect for photography, meditation, or quiet walks along serene trails. Each location combines serene beauty with the city’s bustling energy just beyond the horizon.
How can I get around Staten Island using public transportation or other modes of travel?
Getting around Staten Island is simple, thanks to its efficient public transportation network and diverse modes of transportation.
Here are the best ways to travel:
- Staten Island Ferry – The most iconic and free ride connecting Staten Island to Manhattan with spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline.
- MTA buses and Staten Island Railway offer extensive routes across the borough, making reaching major attractions, parks, and historic sites easy.
- Bike riding – Ideal in parks like Clove Lakes or on the South Beach boardwalk.
- Walking – Many neighborhoods are walkable, especially near public parks and historic landmarks.
Public transit is reliable, and with modern updates, apps, and maps, navigating is easier than ever. It’s a great way to see the sights without the hassle of city driving — and you’ll still enjoy scenic views.
Are there any unique experiences for art lovers and foodies visiting Staten Island?
Absolutely! Staten Island offers a variety of experiences that art lovers and food enthusiasts will appreciate — from art exhibits to immersive Food Tours.
Here’s what to explore:
- Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden – Hosts rotating art exhibits, performances, and workshops in a serene setting filled with beautiful gardens.
- Staten Island Museum – A blend of art, science, and history, perfect for curious minds and creative souls.
- Historic Richmond Town – Besides history, this site often holds cultural events like artisan markets and craft demonstrations.
- Food Tours – Local businesses and food bloggers offer tours highlighting Staten Island’s rich mix of Italian, Sri Lankan, and Caribbean cuisine.
Pair a gallery visit with a food crawl, and you have the recipe for a fulfilling day. These spots enrich your understanding of the borough and offer amazing views and a taste of true Staten Island culture.
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Read: Is It Better to Have a Male or Female Divorce Attorney? Understanding What Really Matters
