1150 Clove Rd

For New Yorkers seeking a refreshing escape into nature without leaving the city, Clove Lakes Park on Staten Island is an exceptional destination. More than just a local park, this expansive 193-acre urban oasis offers a diverse landscape of serene lakes, winding trails, lush woodlands, and abundant recreational facilities. It's a cherished green lung for Staten Islanders and a worthy excursion for anyone in the five boroughs looking to reconnect with the outdoors. From its fascinating geological history, shaped by glaciers 20,000 years ago, to its modern-day amenities, Clove Lakes Park truly offers something for everyone.

Named from the Dutch word "kloven," meaning cleft – referring to the valley and brook formed by ancient glaciers – Clove Lakes Park is a testament to natural beauty and dedicated conservation. It's a "Forever Wild" site, signifying its valuable ecological assets and rich biodiversity. Whether you're interested in a tranquil stroll by the water, an invigorating hike through verdant trails, a family picnic, or engaging in various sports, this park provides a comprehensive and beautiful setting for all your outdoor pursuits. It's a place where history, nature, and recreation beautifully intertwine, making it a unique and invaluable part of New York City's park system.

Clove Lakes Park is prominently located on Staten Island, New York, with its main entrance and central area accessible around 1150 Clove Rd, Staten Island, NY 10301, USA. Its expansive acreage also stretches across areas bounded by Forest Avenue, Victory Boulevard, and Brookside Avenue. This central Staten Island location makes it highly accessible for residents across the borough and for visitors from other parts of New York City.

For those driving, Clove Lakes Park benefits from its proximity to major Staten Island arteries. The Staten Island Expressway (I-278) runs just south of the park, providing direct access from the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge (connecting to Brooklyn) and the Goethals Bridge (connecting to New Jersey). This makes it convenient for car travel from various parts of NYC and beyond. Ample street parking is generally available around the park's perimeters, and specific parking lots might also be present near key facilities like the Stone House or the skating rink.

Public transportation offers robust options for reaching the park. Numerous MTA bus lines traverse Staten Island, with stops conveniently located along Clove Road, Victory Boulevard, and Forest Avenue, all bordering the park. These bus routes connect to the Staten Island Railway (SIR), which in turn provides seamless access to the St. George Ferry Terminal. From there, the iconic, free Staten Island Ferry takes you directly to Manhattan, offering a scenic journey past the Statue of Liberty. This makes Clove Lakes Park an accessible natural retreat even for those relying solely on public transit, offering a chance to escape urban density without leaving the city.

Clove Lakes Park, managed by NYC Parks, offers a wide array of public services and amenities catering to diverse recreational and leisure needs. These services are primarily focused on providing free or low-cost access to green spaces and facilities.

• Recreational Facilities: The park boasts numerous sports amenities, including multiple baseball fields (including one for Little League), a soccer field, football fields, and basketball courts. These facilities are used for organized leagues, community games, and casual play.
• Playgrounds: Several playgrounds are located within the park, providing safe and engaging spaces for children of various ages to play, climb, and interact. Some playgrounds feature accessible elements.
• Hiking and Walking Trails: Over three miles of paved pedestrian roads encircle the lakes, and an informal network of dirt trails winds through the woods. A five-kilometer cross-country running trail was also reconstructed in 2020, offering opportunities for walking, jogging, and exploring the natural landscape.
• Paddleboat Rentals: Visitors can rent paddleboats to explore Clove Lake and its interconnected ponds, offering a unique and leisurely way to experience the park's aquatic beauty.
• Fishing: Fishing is permitted in Clove Lake, Martling Lake, and Brooks Lake. These lakes are home to various fish species, including brown bullhead, largemouth bass, and bluegill, offering opportunities for anglers (special NYC Parks regulations, including barbless hooks, apply).
• Ice Skating Rink (Seasonal): The Staten Island War Memorial Skating Rink operates seasonally (typically fall/winter), providing an outdoor ice skating experience for the community.
• Picnicking Areas: The park features designated barbecuing and picnic areas, ideal for family gatherings, birthday parties, and enjoying meals outdoors in a natural setting.
• Public Restrooms: Conveniently located public restrooms are available, including an accessible comfort station near the Clove Lakes Park Playground.
• Eateries (The Stone House at Clove Lakes): While an independent establishment, The Stone House restaurant is located on a small island within Clove Lake, offering fine dining, a steakhouse menu, and event space with scenic views.
• Dog-Friendly Areas: Specific areas within the park are designated as dog-friendly, allowing residents to enjoy the park with their canine companions.
• Fitness Equipment: An adult fitness area provides outdoor exercise equipment for public use.
• Wi-Fi Hot Spots: Certain areas within the park may offer public Wi-Fi access.

Clove Lakes Park is renowned for its diverse and captivating features, blending natural wonders with recreational opportunities.

• The Lakes and Ponds: The park's namesake Clove Lake, along with Martling Lake and Brooks Lake, are central to its beauty. These interconnected bodies of water provide tranquil settings for boating, fishing, and offer reflective surfaces that enhance the park's scenic appeal.
• The "Clove Lakes Colossus" (300-year-old Tulip Tree): A true natural marvel, this more than 300-year-old tulip tree is possibly the largest single-trunked great tree in New York City. Located in the park's northwest corner, it's a living piece of history and a majestic sight.
• Diverse Wildlife and Birdwatching: As a "Forever Wild" site, Clove Lakes Park is a haven for wildlife. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching, home to various species including red-tailed hawks, kingfishers, herons, egrets, and a critical stopover for migrating songbirds along the Atlantic Flyway. The wetlands and woodlands support a wide array of indigenous animals.
• Historic Stone Structures: The park features several picturesque stone bridges dating back to the 1930s, built during the Great Depression. The "Stonehenge" Field House, constructed of native fieldstone, also dates to this era and now houses NYC Parks' Staten Island borough offices.
• The Stone House at Clove Lakes: This charming stone cottage, located on a small island within Clove Lake, offers a unique dining experience. It provides fine dining, a steakhouse menu, and serves as a picturesque venue for events, all set against a beautiful waterfront backdrop.
• Geological Formations: The park is populated with outcroppings of ash green serpentine rock, remnants of its fascinating geological past shaped by glaciers.
• Leeseberg Perennial Garden: Completed in 2001, this garden adds a touch of cultivated beauty to the park, showcasing diverse perennial flora.
• Extensive Trail System: The well-maintained network of trails caters to various activities, from leisurely strolls to invigorating runs, allowing visitors to explore the park's natural features at their own pace.

As a public park managed by NYC Parks, Clove Lakes Park does not typically offer "promotions" or "special offers" in a commercial sense (e.g., discounts on entry, as access is generally free). However, the "promotions" available are more focused on free or low-cost community engagement, educational programs, and recreational opportunities.

These "offers" for the New York City community include:

• Free Guided Nature Walks and Birding Tours: NYC Parks and other environmental organizations often host free guided walks within Clove Lakes Park, allowing participants to learn about its ecology, history, and wildlife, especially during peak migration seasons.
• Free Fishing Programs: Events like "Father's Day Freshwater Fishing" programs are often offered for free by Urban Park Rangers, providing equipment and guidance for those interested in learning to fish.
• Community Events and Festivals: The park frequently hosts various free community events, outdoor concerts at the bandshell (if available and utilized), festivals, and seasonal celebrations throughout the year. Checking the NYC Parks event calendar is the best way to find these.
• Affordable Paddleboat Rentals: While not free, paddleboat rentals typically come at a reasonable hourly rate, making a unique lake experience accessible to many.
• Free Access to Facilities: The most significant "promotion" is the free and open access to the vast majority of the park's facilities, including playgrounds, sports courts, fitness equipment, and extensive trails.
• Seasonal Ice Skating (Fee-Based): The Staten Island War Memorial Skating Rink offers ice skating sessions, which are typically fee-based, but provide a popular seasonal activity.

To stay updated on free events, organized activities, and any special seasonal offerings at Clove Lakes Park, New Yorkers should regularly check the official NYC Parks website's "Events" section for Clove Lakes Park.

Clove Lakes Park is managed by the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. For general inquiries about the park, its facilities, or scheduled events, you can reach out to the NYC Parks Staten Island administrative office.

• Park Address: 1150 Clove Rd, Staten Island, NY 10301, USA (main address)
• NYC Parks - Staten Island Borough Office Phone: (718) 390-8000

For specific inquiries related to events or permits, it's always best to consult the official NYC Parks website or the Staten Island Borough Parks office directly.

For New Yorkers, Clove Lakes Park is an indispensable urban sanctuary that offers a multitude of reasons for its suitability as a local destination.

Firstly, its sheer accessibility, whether by car or public transit from any of the five boroughs, means a refreshing escape into nature is never far away. For Staten Island residents, it's a backyard treasure; for those in other boroughs, it's a worthy day trip, made even more appealing by the scenic Staten Island Ferry ride. This convenience makes it ideal for spontaneous visits, family outings, or a dedicated day of outdoor activity.

The park's diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests. Families can enjoy the playgrounds and paddleboat rentals, while athletes can utilize the various sports fields and courts. Nature lovers and birdwatchers will revel in the "Forever Wild" areas, the ancient tulip tree, and the abundant wildlife. The extensive trail system provides ample opportunities for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll amidst beautiful natural scenery.

Moreover, Clove Lakes Park contributes significantly to the quality of life for New Yorkers by providing essential green space for physical activity, mental well-being, and community interaction. It hosts numerous free events and programs throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community and offering accessible cultural and recreational opportunities. The presence of The Stone House restaurant within the park even offers a unique dining experience, allowing locals to enjoy a full day out.

In essence, Clove Lakes Park is a dynamic, multifaceted jewel in the crown of NYC's park system. It offers a vital connection to nature, a wealth of recreational opportunities, and a beloved gathering place for all New Yorkers, solidifying its place as an essential and cherished local resource.

1150 Clove Rd

1150 Clove Rd, Staten Island, NY 10301, USA