Clove Lakes Park, tucked into the glacial valley of northern Staten Island, is a quietly majestic urban oasis where woodland, wetlands and serpentine rock outcrops meet a series of peaceful lakes. Established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of Staten Island’s park development, the park preserves significant natural features — including old-growth trees (notably a centuries-old tulip tree), rocky outcrops and a string of connected ponds that draw waterfowl and songbirds. Visitors come for more than scenery: winding trails, picnic areas, athletic fields and a fishing-friendly shoreline make it equally appealing to families, birders, anglers and joggers. The park’s combination of natural history and everyday recreation gives a sense of escape without leaving the city; in one visit you can wander forested paths, watch turtles bask on logs, glimpse migratory birds, and appreciate remnants of the park’s early-20th-century landscape design. Its approachable scale and varied habitats make Clove Lakes Park an ideal half-day retreat for locals and visitors exploring Staten Island.
Clove Lakes Park stands as one of Staten Island’s most treasured outdoor spaces, and honestly, it’s easy to see why once you spend even just an hour wandering through its grounds. This isn’t your typical city park with just a few benches and a patch of grass – we’re talking about a genuine natural retreat that somehow manages to exist right in the middle of urban development. The park gets its name from the three lakes that dominate the landscape, each one fed by natural springs and surrounded by mature trees that create this almost serene atmosphere you wouldn’t expect to find so close to residential neighborhoods.
What strikes most visitors first is the sheer variety of landscapes packed into this space. You’ve got these peaceful lakes where you can watch ducks gliding across the water, dense wooded areas perfect for losing yourself in nature for a bit, and then these well-maintained recreational zones where families gather on weekends. It’s the kind of place where morning joggers share the paths with bird watchers, and where you might see someone fishing by the water’s edge while kids play basketball just a short walk away.
The park has this interesting history too – these lakes weren’t just randomly created. They’re actually part of a natural watershed system that dates back centuries, and the area was historically used for ice harvesting back in the day. Now it serves as a breathing space for the community, a place where people come to disconnect from the usual rush of daily life.
The amenities at Clove Lakes Park are pretty comprehensive, which is part of what makes it such a popular destination for both locals and travelers exploring Staten Island:
Here’s the thing about timing your visit to Clove Lakes Park – there really isn’t a bad season, but each one offers something completely different. I’ve found that spring, particularly late April through May, is absolutely magical. The trees are budding, flowers start popping up around the lakes, and the weather’s usually pleasant enough that you can spend hours outside without freezing or sweating to death. The migratory birds return during this time too, which makes it prime territory for anyone into bird watching.
Summer brings the crowds, and for good reason. The park becomes this hub of activity with families having barbecues, kids running around the playgrounds, and the shaded areas under those massive trees providing relief from the heat. Early mornings during summer are particularly special – you can catch the sunrise reflecting off the lakes before the day heats up and the park fills with people. But yeah, weekends in summer can get pretty packed, so if you’re someone who prefers quieter experiences, maybe aim for weekday visits.
Fall is my personal favorite, and I’ll die on this hill. The foliage transformation around those lakes is genuinely stunning. The combination of reds, oranges, and yellows reflecting in the water creates these postcard-worthy scenes that photographers absolutely love. The temperatures are comfortable for hiking, and there’s something about the crisp autumn air that just makes outdoor activities more enjoyable. Plus, the summer crowds have thinned out by September and October.
Winter has its own charm, especially when the ice skating rink opens. There’s something really special about skating outdoors with the frozen landscape as your backdrop. Snow-covered trails attract a different kind of visitor – the hardy souls who appreciate winter hiking and the peaceful silence that comes with cold weather exploration.
Time of day matters too. Early mornings, like before 9 AM, offer the most peaceful experience regardless of season. You’ll share the park with serious runners, dog walkers, and maybe a few fishermen. Late afternoon, particularly that golden hour before sunset, creates beautiful lighting for photography and comfortable temperatures for casual strolls.
Getting to Clove Lakes Park is straightforward once you know your options, and you’ve got several depending on where you’re coming from. If you’re driving from Manhattan or other boroughs, you’ll want to take the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge to Staten Island. From there, the park is accessible via several major roads, and honestly, GPS will be your best friend here because Staten Island’s road layout can confuse even longtime New Yorkers.
For those relying on public transportation, the Staten Island Railway is your main option. You can take the ferry from Manhattan to Staten Island – which is free and offers great views, by the way – then catch the railway to Great Kills station or other nearby stops. From there, you’re looking at either a bus connection or a rideshare to reach the park itself. Yeah, it’s not the most direct route, but it’s doable and part of the adventure.
Several bus lines service the area around Clove Lakes Park, making it accessible for those who prefer not to drive. The S61, S62, and other local routes have stops within walking distance. Check the MTA website before you go though, because schedules can change and you don’t want to get stuck waiting longer than necessary.
If you’re already on Staten Island, cycling to the park is actually a really nice option. The surrounding neighborhoods have bike-friendly streets, and once you arrive, those dedicated cycling lanes within the park make it worth bringing your bike along.
Parking is genuinely not an issue here, which is rare for popular New York attractions. The park has dedicated free parking lots that can accommodate a decent number of vehicles, and there’s also free street parking available along the roads bordering the park. Weekends during peak season might require arriving a bit earlier to snag a spot close to your preferred entrance, but you’ll find something.
Let me share some practical advice that’ll make your visit way more enjoyable. First off, bring layers regardless of what season you’re visiting. The wooded areas can be significantly cooler than the open spaces, and weather on Staten Island can be unpredictable. I learned this the hard way during a spring visit when what started as a sunny morning turned into a chilly afternoon by the lakes.
If you’re planning a picnic – and you really should because the picnic areas here are fantastic – arrive early to claim a good spot, especially on weekends. The shaded tables near the lakes go fast. Don’t forget to pack trash bags and clean up after yourself. The park is well-maintained, but that only works when visitors do their part.
For hikers, wear proper footwear. Some trails can get muddy, particularly after rain or during spring thaw. Those scenic paths around the lakes might look casual, but you’ll appreciate having shoes with good traction. And bring bug spray during warmer months – mosquitoes near the water can be annoying.
Parents bringing kids should definitely check out the playground areas before settling in for the day. There are multiple play zones scattered throughout the park, and some are better suited for different age groups. The main playground near the ice rink tends to be the most popular and has the newest equipment.
Dog owners, your pets are welcome but keep them leashed except in the designated dog park area. Bring waste bags even though dispensers are available – they sometimes run out. The dog park gets busy during typical after-work hours, so if your pup is nervous around lots of other dogs, consider visiting during off-peak times.
Photography enthusiasts should absolutely bring their cameras or at least have phone storage cleared. The reflections in the lakes during golden hour are incredible, and wildlife sightings are common. Turtles sunbathing on logs, various bird species, and even the occasional deer make appearances.
The ice skating rink operates seasonally, so call ahead or check online before making winter plans specifically around skating. They rent equipment on-site, but bringing your own skates is cheaper if you have them.
Fishing is permitted in the lakes, but you’ll need appropriate New York State fishing licenses. Check the regulations before casting a line.
Restrooms are available, but they’re not everywhere. Plan accordingly, especially if you’re with young children. The facilities near the main parking areas are your best bet.
Pack water and snacks because while there are some vendors occasionally, you can’t count on them being open year-round. Staying hydrated during summer hikes is crucial, and having energy snacks makes those longer explorations more comfortable.
Finally, visit during different seasons if you can. Clove Lakes Park truly transforms throughout the year, and each season offers unique experiences. What you see in July looks nothing like what you’ll encounter in November, and both are worth experiencing.
Last modified March 30, 2026
Clove Lakes Park stands as one of Staten Island’s most treasured outdoor spaces, and honestly, it’s easy to see why once you spend even just an hour wandering through its grounds. This isn’t your typical city park with just a few benches and a patch of grass – we’re talking about a genuine natural retreat that somehow manages to exist right in the middle of urban development. The park gets its name from the three lakes that dominate the landscape, each one fed by natural springs and surrounded by mature trees that create this almost serene atmosphere you wouldn’t expect to find so close to residential neighborhoods.
What strikes most visitors first is the sheer variety of landscapes packed into this space. You’ve got these peaceful lakes where you can watch ducks gliding across the water, dense wooded areas perfect for losing yourself in nature for a bit, and then these well-maintained recreational zones where families gather on weekends. It’s the kind of place where morning joggers share the paths with bird watchers, and where you might see someone fishing by the water’s edge while kids play basketball just a short walk away.
The park has this interesting history too – these lakes weren’t just randomly created. They’re actually part of a natural watershed system that dates back centuries, and the area was historically used for ice harvesting back in the day. Now it serves as a breathing space for the community, a place where people come to disconnect from the usual rush of daily life.
The amenities at Clove Lakes Park are pretty comprehensive, which is part of what makes it such a popular destination for both locals and travelers exploring Staten Island:
Here’s the thing about timing your visit to Clove Lakes Park – there really isn’t a bad season, but each one offers something completely different. I’ve found that spring, particularly late April through May, is absolutely magical. The trees are budding, flowers start popping up around the lakes, and the weather’s usually pleasant enough that you can spend hours outside without freezing or sweating to death. The migratory birds return during this time too, which makes it prime territory for anyone into bird watching.
Summer brings the crowds, and for good reason. The park becomes this hub of activity with families having barbecues, kids running around the playgrounds, and the shaded areas under those massive trees providing relief from the heat. Early mornings during summer are particularly special – you can catch the sunrise reflecting off the lakes before the day heats up and the park fills with people. But yeah, weekends in summer can get pretty packed, so if you’re someone who prefers quieter experiences, maybe aim for weekday visits.
Fall is my personal favorite, and I’ll die on this hill. The foliage transformation around those lakes is genuinely stunning. The combination of reds, oranges, and yellows reflecting in the water creates these postcard-worthy scenes that photographers absolutely love. The temperatures are comfortable for hiking, and there’s something about the crisp autumn air that just makes outdoor activities more enjoyable. Plus, the summer crowds have thinned out by September and October.
Winter has its own charm, especially when the ice skating rink opens. There’s something really special about skating outdoors with the frozen landscape as your backdrop. Snow-covered trails attract a different kind of visitor – the hardy souls who appreciate winter hiking and the peaceful silence that comes with cold weather exploration.
Time of day matters too. Early mornings, like before 9 AM, offer the most peaceful experience regardless of season. You’ll share the park with serious runners, dog walkers, and maybe a few fishermen. Late afternoon, particularly that golden hour before sunset, creates beautiful lighting for photography and comfortable temperatures for casual strolls.
Getting to Clove Lakes Park is straightforward once you know your options, and you’ve got several depending on where you’re coming from. If you’re driving from Manhattan or other boroughs, you’ll want to take the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge to Staten Island. From there, the park is accessible via several major roads, and honestly, GPS will be your best friend here because Staten Island’s road layout can confuse even longtime New Yorkers.
For those relying on public transportation, the Staten Island Railway is your main option. You can take the ferry from Manhattan to Staten Island – which is free and offers great views, by the way – then catch the railway to Great Kills station or other nearby stops. From there, you’re looking at either a bus connection or a rideshare to reach the park itself. Yeah, it’s not the most direct route, but it’s doable and part of the adventure.
Several bus lines service the area around Clove Lakes Park, making it accessible for those who prefer not to drive. The S61, S62, and other local routes have stops within walking distance. Check the MTA website before you go though, because schedules can change and you don’t want to get stuck waiting longer than necessary.
If you’re already on Staten Island, cycling to the park is actually a really nice option. The surrounding neighborhoods have bike-friendly streets, and once you arrive, those dedicated cycling lanes within the park make it worth bringing your bike along.
Parking is genuinely not an issue here, which is rare for popular New York attractions. The park has dedicated free parking lots that can accommodate a decent number of vehicles, and there’s also free street parking available along the roads bordering the park. Weekends during peak season might require arriving a bit earlier to snag a spot close to your preferred entrance, but you’ll find something.
Let me share some practical advice that’ll make your visit way more enjoyable. First off, bring layers regardless of what season you’re visiting. The wooded areas can be significantly cooler than the open spaces, and weather on Staten Island can be unpredictable. I learned this the hard way during a spring visit when what started as a sunny morning turned into a chilly afternoon by the lakes.
If you’re planning a picnic – and you really should because the picnic areas here are fantastic – arrive early to claim a good spot, especially on weekends. The shaded tables near the lakes go fast. Don’t forget to pack trash bags and clean up after yourself. The park is well-maintained, but that only works when visitors do their part.
For hikers, wear proper footwear. Some trails can get muddy, particularly after rain or during spring thaw. Those scenic paths around the lakes might look casual, but you’ll appreciate having shoes with good traction. And bring bug spray during warmer months – mosquitoes near the water can be annoying.
Parents bringing kids should definitely check out the playground areas before settling in for the day. There are multiple play zones scattered throughout the park, and some are better suited for different age groups. The main playground near the ice rink tends to be the most popular and has the newest equipment.
Dog owners, your pets are welcome but keep them leashed except in the designated dog park area. Bring waste bags even though dispensers are available – they sometimes run out. The dog park gets busy during typical after-work hours, so if your pup is nervous around lots of other dogs, consider visiting during off-peak times.
Photography enthusiasts should absolutely bring their cameras or at least have phone storage cleared. The reflections in the lakes during golden hour are incredible, and wildlife sightings are common. Turtles sunbathing on logs, various bird species, and even the occasional deer make appearances.
The ice skating rink operates seasonally, so call ahead or check online before making winter plans specifically around skating. They rent equipment on-site, but bringing your own skates is cheaper if you have them.
Fishing is permitted in the lakes, but you’ll need appropriate New York State fishing licenses. Check the regulations before casting a line.
Restrooms are available, but they’re not everywhere. Plan accordingly, especially if you’re with young children. The facilities near the main parking areas are your best bet.
Pack water and snacks because while there are some vendors occasionally, you can’t count on them being open year-round. Staying hydrated during summer hikes is crucial, and having energy snacks makes those longer explorations more comfortable.
Finally, visit during different seasons if you can. Clove Lakes Park truly transforms throughout the year, and each season offers unique experiences. What you see in July looks nothing like what you’ll encounter in November, and both are worth experiencing.
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