Great Kills Park
An ocean beach playground and wildlife haven
Located on a peninsula in Staten Island that features an inlet harbor and barrier ocean beach, Great Kills Park -- part of Gateway National Recreation Area -- is 580 acres of open space where visitors can enjoy many recreational amenities or explore the wildlife still thriving in New York City.
Great Kills has always been an area known for its ecological resources. Before European settlement, Native Americans gathered food and made medicine from the region's plants and animals. The name Great Kills originates from a Dutch name meaning "many creeks." Up until World War II oysters were plentiful in its waters.
In 1860, John J. Crooke, a businessman and pioneering naturalist, purchased the peninsula's point. While living in a log cabin on its sandy shore, he spent time photographing the beautiful natural space and collecting plant and animal specimens. In 1929, the City of New York bought Crooke's Point and the surrounding properties to develop into a park. Work was delayed however due to the Great Depression, and it was not until 1949 that Great Kills Park opened to the public. This precious wildlife haven became a national park in 1973.
Today, visitors can hike, bike, or run on the many trails throughout the park, relax on the beautiful beach or go for a swim in the life-guarded ocean surf. The park also includes a marina, fishing areas, and sports fields. Visitors can enjoy numerous recreational and athletic activities as well as learn about a well preserved and highly diverse ecosystem without leaving the city.
