Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve is a 265-acre nature preserve near the southwest shore of Staten Island. Its habitats include wetlands, ponds, sand barrens, spring-fed streams and woodlands. The preserve is managed to keep its ecology intact while offering educational and recreational opportunities for all ages. Evidence of the Lenape, European settlers and the Free Blacks of Sandy Ground gives it a rich cultural history, and educational programs such as nature walks are offered.