Great Kills Park | Staten Island

Here is a detailed overview of Great Kills Park on Staten Island:

Overview

Great Kills Park is a 580-acre waterfront park located on Staten Island’s southern shore, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area managed by the National Park Service. It is a vital natural, recreational, and cultural resource, blending beach, marshland, forest, and harbor environments.

Natural Environment

Habitats:
The park features a mix of coastal ecosystems, including:

Salt marshes that support diverse aquatic life and act as natural buffers against storms and flooding.

Dunes along the shoreline, helping to prevent erosion.

Woodlands with native trees and underbrush, supporting local wildlife.

Beaches providing habitat for shorebirds and serving as natural recreation spots.

Wildlife & Birdwatching:
Great Kills Park is a renowned birding destination with over 279 bird species recorded.
Key species include:

Parasitic Jaeger

King Eider

Sandhill Crane

Short-eared Owl

Lapland Longspur

Yellow-headed Blackbird
These species attract birdwatchers especially during migration seasons, making the park important for avian conservation.

Recreation & Facilities

Beaches:
Multiple beaches stretch along the park, including:

New Dorp Beach

Cedar Grove Beach

Oakwood Beach

Fox Beach
These beaches are lifeguarded seasonally (Memorial Day through Labor Day) and are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

Trails & Paths:
A multi-use paved path runs about 1.5 miles through the park, suitable for walking, jogging, and biking, offering scenic views of the harbor and natural areas.

Fishing:
Designated fishing spots exist, particularly around Crooke’s Point and the harbor area. A fishing permit is required for parking in some areas.

Boating & Marina:
The park includes the Great Kills Marina, which provides boat docking, maintenance, and rental services.
The boat launch ramp allows for motorboats (excluding personal watercraft like jet skis, kayaks, or canoes), giving access to Great Kills Harbor and the Lower New York Bay.

Picnic Areas & Facilities:
There are picnic spots with tables and grills, restrooms, and ample parking available for visitors.

History & Environmental Efforts

Crooke’s Point:
Named after John J. Crooke, a 19th-century naturalist who owned land here, the area has long been valued for its natural beauty and biodiversity.

Radium Contamination & Cleanup:
In 2005, the discovery of elevated radium-226 levels triggered a major environmental cleanup.
Approximately 282 acres of the park have been closed to the public since for remediation.
The cleanup is ongoing, with portions gradually reopening as the site is made safe.

Accessibility & Visitor Information

Location:
The park is accessible via Hylan Boulevard and Buffalo Street on Staten Island’s South Shore.

Hours:
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Contact:
National Park Service office: (718) 354-4606

Additional Information:
The park’s official info and updates are available through the Gateway National Recreation Area website.

Summary

Great Kills Park is a vital green space offering a rare combination of:

Coastal and forest ecosystems

Rich bird and wildlife diversity

Beaches and recreational amenities

Historical and environmental significance

It serves both as a natural refuge for wildlife and a cherished public resource for outdoor activities, education, and relaxation on Staten Island.