Mobile users, you may need to rotate your device or click the + sign above to see the full list of neighborhoods.

Great Kills PArk - Staten Island - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of tGreat Kills Park on Staten Island, NYC. I will be returning in the near future for a dedicated tour of the neighborhood, so please keep checking the Updates page and my YouTube channel!

Along the Lower Bay and Great Kills Harbor is the forever wild Great Kills Park. Bay Terrace is to the north, across Hyland Boulevard. To the east is Oakwood, while the neighborhood of Great Kills sits at the northeast corner of the park.

Great Kills PArk slideshow (Coming Soon):

The Neighborhood

Great Kills Park, a scenic and expansive recreational area on Staten Island, New York, is a cherished natural haven that offers a wide range of outdoor activities, breathtaking coastal views, and a connection to nature. As part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, Great Kills Park is a testament to the importance of preserving natural landscapes for public enjoyment and ecological conservation.

**Coastal Beauty:**

Great Kills Park is situated along the shores of the Lower New York Bay, providing visitors with stunning waterfront vistas, sandy beaches, and serene tidal marshes. The park's location allows for panoramic views of the bay, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline.

**Recreational Opportunities:**

The park caters to outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. It features a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, biking paths, picnic areas, sports fields, and playgrounds. Fishing is a popular activity along the shoreline and fishing piers.

**Beaches and Water Activities:**

Great Kills Park offers beautiful sandy beaches where visitors can relax, swim, and enjoy the sun. The calm bay waters are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other non-motorized water activities.

**Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing:**

The park's diverse habitats, including tidal salt marshes, attract a variety of bird species. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can spot a range of avian residents and migratory visitors throughout the year.

**Cultural and Historical Sites:**

Great Kills Park is home to several historical sites, including the Great Kills Harbor Lighthouse, a landmark that has guided maritime traffic for over two centuries. The park's cultural significance is enriched by interpretive programs, educational exhibits, and ranger-led activities.

**Community Events:**

Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of community events, festivals, and programs that engage visitors with the natural environment, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities available within the park.

**Accessibility:**

Great Kills Park is easily accessible, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. It offers ample parking, and its proximity to major roadways and public transportation enhances its accessibility.

**Environmental Conservation:**

Great Kills Park plays a vital role in preserving Staten Island's coastal ecosystems. Its salt marshes and diverse habitats provide valuable resources for local wildlife and contribute to the health of the surrounding environment.

**Gateway National Recreation Area:**

Great Kills Park is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, a unit of the National Park Service. The park's inclusion in this network signifies its significance as a natural and cultural treasure that contributes to the national park system.

In essence, Great Kills Park stands as a testament to the importance of protecting and enjoying natural landscapes. Its scenic beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and ecological significance make it a beloved destination where visitors can connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of New York's coastal environment.

Click here for ALL Photos From Staten Island:

All photography provided by Samuel Walters