TOP 10 Nature center wildlife habitats in New York, New York

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge Marsh Overlook #1 Welcome to Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge Marsh Overlook #1, a serene and breathtaking natural retreat located at 340 Smith Road, Shirley, New York. Established in 1947, this refuge spans 2,550 acres along the south shore of Long Island and is a vital sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife and plant species.

Welcome to the Suffolk County Environmental Center, a serene natural haven nestled on the historic Scully Estate in Islip, New York. Located at 550 South Bay Avenue, our 70-acre park offers a unique blend of history, nature, and conservation, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Opened on Earth Day 2010, the center is operated by the Seatuck Environmental Association under a custodial agreement with the Suffolk County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation. Our site, positioned near the picturesque Great South Bay, is adjacent to the Seatuck National Wildlife Refuge and Islip Town Beach, providing a rich tapestry of salt marshes, freshwater wetlands, and mature upland forests for you to explore.

Welcome to the Quogue Wildlife Refuge, a serene 305-acre non-profit nature preserve located at 3 Old Country Road, Quogue, New York. Established in 1934, our refuge is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Long Island. Open 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset, our seven miles of trails invite you to discover a variety of habitats, including lush forests, tranquil ponds, and the ecologically rare Dwarf Pines in the Pine Barrens. Please note that you may encounter periodic trail closures due to the Southern Pine Beetle. Our Outdoor Wildlife Complex is home to permanently injured wildlife that require human care to survive. Here, you can meet owls, falcons, a fox, and other native New York animals, all serving as educational ambassadors to promote wildlife protection.

Welcome to the Rheinstrom Hill Audubon Center and Sanctuary, a breathtaking 1,039-acre natural haven nestled in the southeastern corner of Columbia County at 225 Cambridge Road, Hillsdale, New York. This sanctuary is a vital refuge for numerous climate-threatened bird species, including the enchanting Wood Thrush, Veery, Scarlet Tanager, and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Bird enthusiasts can also spot a variety of warblers such as the Ovenbird, Chestnut-sided, Black-throated Blue, Black-and-white, and Blackburnian. Beyond avian wonders, the sanctuary is home to majestic wildlife like White-tailed Deer, Coyotes, Bobcats, and Black Bears. Rheinstrom Hill Audubon Center and Sanctuary is an ideal destination for birding, nature walks, and hiking, attracting hundreds of visitors each year who come to enjoy its serene beauty. We prioritize the health and safety of our visitors, staff, and supporters. In line with this commitment, we kindly ask all guests to adhere to social distancing guidelines during their visit.

Buttercup Farm Audubon Sanctuary is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6862 State Route 82 in Stanfordville, New York, United States. Covering 641 acres, the sanctuary offers diverse habitats including open grasslands, woodlands, orchards, and marshy areas. Visitors can enjoy six miles of trails and may spot over 80 species of birds, including nesting Great Blue Herons, Wood Ducks, and Bobolinks. The sanctuary is open from dawn until dusk, seven days a week. To support the conservation efforts at Buttercup Farm Sanctuary, visitors can make a tax deductible donation or find the closest Audubon Center or Chapter in their area. By supporting Audubon New York, you are helping to protect birds and their habitats for future generations.

Lenoir Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 19 Dudley Street in Yonkers, New York. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and diverse wildlife. The preserve is a perfect place for nature lovers to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a family picnic, or a bird-watching adventure, Lenoir Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy. Come visit and experience the natural beauty of this hidden gem in New York.

Trailside Museums & Zoo is a unique institution located in New York, United States, at the address 3006 Seven Lakes Drive. It is a combination of a museum, tourist attraction, and zoo, offering visitors a chance to learn about the local wildlife and history of the area. The museum features exhibits on the natural environment, while the zoo showcases a variety of animals native to the region. Visitors can enjoy educational programs, interactive exhibits, and guided tours, making it a fun and informative destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

The Michael Ciaiola Conservation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 480 Haviland Hollow Road in Patterson, New York, United States. This serene and picturesque area offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking. With its lush forests, tranquil ponds, and scenic trails, the Michael Ciaiola Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day with family and friends, this conservation area is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Teatown Lake Reservation is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1600 Spring Valley Road in Ossining, New York. This 1,000-acre nature reserve offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and a picturesque lake. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems of the Hudson Valley region, observe wildlife in their natural habitats, and participate in educational programs and events. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a fun outdoor adventure, Teatown Lake Reservation is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is a renowned research institution located in Salt Point, New York. Situated at 4797 New York 82, this park-like campus is dedicated to studying and understanding the complex interactions between organisms and their environment. Researchers at the Cary Institute conduct cutting-edge research on a wide range of ecological issues, from climate change to biodiversity conservation. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds and learn about the institute's important work through educational programs and events. Whether you're a scientist, student, or nature enthusiast, the Cary Institute offers a valuable resource for learning about and protecting our planet's ecosystems.

Schor Conservation Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 58 Shore View Drive in East Chatham, New York, United States. This beautiful conservation area offers visitors a peaceful retreat into nature, with scenic views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. The park is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. With its serene atmosphere and diverse wildlife, Schor Conservation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

The Ark is a prestigious school located at 415 River Street in Troy, New York, United States. With a focus on fostering academic excellence and personal growth, The Ark provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for students to thrive. The institution offers a comprehensive curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated faculty members who are committed to helping students reach their full potential. At The Ark, students are encouraged to explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills, and become responsible global citizens. Join us at The Ark and embark on a journey of learning, discovery, and success.

The Forest Reserve at Smallwood is a peaceful and serene park located at 48 Richard Crumley Drive in Mongaup Valley, New York. This beautiful forest reserve offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors. With its lush greenery, winding paths, and scenic views, the Forest Reserve at Smallwood is the perfect destination for a relaxing day out in nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings, this park is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in the heart of New York – come explore the Forest Reserve at Smallwood today!

Flowering Sun Ecology Center, located at 315 Brown Road in Ellenville, New York, is a community-run project dedicated to cultivating and providing organic gourmet mushrooms, produce, herbs, and trees using sustainable practices. As an educational center, we specialize in teaching others how to connect with the earth and create a healthy future for generations to come. Since 2019, we have been growing organic culinary mushrooms with a focus on quality and sustainability. Our mushrooms are grown and packed in a controlled indoor environment, allowing us to offer consistent, year-round crops for our wholesale customers and mushroom CSA.

Putnam Valley Town Park is a picturesque park located at 156 Oscawana Lake Road in Putnam Valley, New York. This popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, scenic trails, and tranquil lake views. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, fishing, and various recreational activities in this beautiful natural setting. Putnam Valley Town Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Sterling Forest State Park is a beautiful park and popular tourist attraction located at 116 Old Forge Road in Tuxedo Park, New York. This expansive park offers visitors a chance to explore over 20,000 acres of pristine wilderness, including hiking trails, picnicking areas, and stunning views of Sterling Lake. Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home, while history buffs can explore the remnants of old iron mines and the ruins of a former estate. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape into nature or an adventure-filled day of outdoor activities, Sterling Forest State Park has something for everyone.

Braddock Bay Park is a stunning 375-acre town-operated park located at 199 East Manitou Road in Rochester, New York. As part of the larger 3000-acre Braddock Bay Fish and Wildlife Management Area owned by NY State, the park is currently involved in the Braddock Bay Ecosystem Restoration Project led by the Army Corps of Engineers. The project aims to protect the wetlands from erosion and restore habitat diversity to benefit fish and wildlife. This park is a popular tourist attraction, especially for bird-watchers, as it is a prime location for observing raptors and other birds during their spring migration. The Braddock Bay Raptor Research has been actively involved in preserving the area's natural resources since 1986, focusing on research and educational activities related to the spectacular raptor migration.

Welcome to French Creek Preserve, a natural gem nestled in the heart of Clymer, New York. Located on Marks Corners Road, this serene park is part of the most biologically diverse aquatic system in the Northeast, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate nature's wonders. French Creek Preserve is a biodiversity hotspot within the Upper Allegheny Basin priority conservation landscape. It boasts an incredible array of aquatic habitats, including headwater and mid-reach streams, riparian corridors, and wetlands. These habitats support an impressive 89 species of fish and 28 species of mussels, including the Tippecanoe Darter and the federally endangered clubshell and northern riffleshell mussels. French Creek remains a vital sanctuary for many species that have vanished from other American waterways.

Welcome to Mashomack Preserve, a breathtaking natural oasis located at 79 South Ferry Road, Shelter Island, New York. Just 90 miles from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Mashomack Preserve spans over 2,350 acres of serene landscapes, including 11 miles of pristine coastline, lush woodlands, vibrant fields, and tranquil tidal creeks. This cherished sanctuary is recognized as one of the richest habitats in the Northeast, offering visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature and explore the diverse ecosystems that thrive here. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, bird watcher, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Mashomack has something for everyone. With over 200 bird species recorded since 1980, including the majestic osprey and vibrant scarlet tanagers, the preserve is a bird-watching paradise. The preserve's diverse habitats also support a wide array of wildlife, from painted turtles and monarch butterflies to foxes and deer, ensuring that every visit is filled with discovery.

Welcome to Brick Pond Wetland Preserve, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Owego, New York. Located at 526-576 East Front Street, this 30-acre park offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Brick Pond is a unique natural habitat, featuring open water surrounded by lush emergent plants and a vibrant wet woods area. Meander along the scenic trail, which includes a charming pontoon bridge, and enjoy breathtaking views of the active beaver colony easily visible from the path. Renowned as one of New York State's premier birding sites, Brick Pond attracts a diverse array of songbirds and waterfowl, with an especially impressive warbler population during the spring and fall migrations. The wetland's rich history dates back to when the nearby Susquehanna River altered its course, leaving behind this ecological gem. Once the site of a bustling brickyard, the area has been transformed into a sanctuary for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Welcome to Nuthatch Hollow, a serene and enchanting natural sanctuary located at 875 Bunn Hill Road, Vestal, New York. Spanning approximately 75 acres, Nuthatch Hollow is a haven of diverse habitats, including lush woodlands, a meandering stream, vibrant scrubland, and expansive grasslands. This rich variety of environments supports an incredible diversity of wildlife, making it a treasured bird sanctuary. Originally owned by Robert Schumann, Nuthatch Hollow has been generously gifted to Binghamton University's Environmental Studies Program. It serves as a vital site for research and education, fostering a deeper understanding of ecological systems and conservation efforts. The area is also the proposed site of a groundbreaking Living Building, further enhancing its role as a center for sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Welcome to the Seatuck Environmental Association, a unique blend of museum, park, and tourist attraction located at 550 South Bay Avenue, Islip, New York. Our mission is to conserve Long Island's wildlife and natural habitats, making our community a vibrant place for both people and nature. At Seatuck, we offer a myriad of opportunities for you to get involved and support our cause. Whether you're interested in becoming a community scientist, volunteering your time and expertise, or making a donation, every contribution helps protect the diverse wildlife that calls Long Island home. Our efforts particularly focus on safeguarding species like the Least Terns and other seabirds that depend on our beaches for nesting.

Welcome to Parade Ground, a vibrant hub located in the heart of Van Cortlandt Park in The Bronx, New York. Whether you're here to enjoy a leisurely barbecue or explore the scenic hiking trails, Parade Ground offers a unique blend of nature, history, and community activities for all ages. Barbecuing Guidelines: We invite you to enjoy a barbecue at Parade Ground, but please exercise caution and maintain a safe distance from other patrons, children, and trees. Remember to clean your area thoroughly before leaving. All coal and matches must be disposed of in designated hot coal barrels. Use water to extinguish hot coals, and never place flammable items in regular litter barrels. For gatherings with more than 20 attendees, a permit is required, which must be applied for 30 days in advance. You can apply for a Special Event permit [here](https://nyceventpermits.nyc.gov/Parks/).

Welcome to Van Cortlandt Stadium Located at U.S. 9 in The Bronx, New York, Van Cortlandt Stadium is a vibrant hub of activity and a gateway to the rich history and natural beauty of Van Cortlandt Park, New York City's third-largest park. Whether you're here to enjoy a sporting event, explore the scenic trails, or delve into the area's history, Van Cortlandt Stadium offers something for everyone.

Welcome to Oneida Run, nestled within the beautiful Van Cortlandt Park in The Bronx, New York. Our park is a serene escape from the bustling city, offering a perfect setting for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor adventures. Located at Van Cortlandt Park East, we invite you to explore the natural beauty and rich history of New York's third largest park. Please be mindful of our community guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. When barbecuing, maintain a safe distance from other patrons, children, and trees, and remember to clean your area before leaving. Dispose of coal and matches in designated hot coal barrels only, and use water to extinguish hot coals. For gatherings of more than 20 attendees, please apply for a permit at least 30 days in advance via [this link](https://nyceventpermits.nyc.gov/Parks/).

Welcome to Dog Bone Run, your ultimate destination for outdoor fun and relaxation in the heart of The Bronx! Nestled at 36 West Gun Hill Road, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities for families, friends, and furry companions. At Dog Bone Run, safety and courtesy are our top priorities. If you're planning a barbecue, please remember to keep a safe distance from other patrons, children, and trees. All coal and matches must be disposed of in designated hot coal barrels, and water should be used to extinguish hot coals. Improper disposal can cause significant harm to our cherished park, so please adhere to these guidelines.

Welcome to the North Woods, a hidden gem nestled in the northwest corner of Central Park at 296 Central Park North, Manhattan, New York. Spanning 40 acres, the North Woods is the largest of Central Park’s three woodland landscapes, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. Inspired by the majestic forests of the Catskills and Adirondacks, this tranquil haven was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux to provide New Yorkers with a taste of wilderness right in their backyard. Explore a variety of landscapes and experiences, including the historic Blockhouse, a fortification from the War of 1812, and the enchanting Ravine. The North Woods is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with over 210 bird species making an appearance throughout the year. Wander along rustic paths, discover cascading waterfalls, and cross charming bridges, all while soaking in the beauty of this urban oasis.

Welcome to South Lawn / Quiet Lawn, a serene oasis located at 75 Great Lawn Oval in the heart of Manhattan, New York. Nestled within the iconic Central Park, our park offers an idyllic escape from the city's hustle and bustle, providing visitors with a tranquil space to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Our 55-acre area is a versatile haven for recreation and leisure. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful picnic, bask in the sun, or engage in a friendly game of softball, our expansive 12-acre oval lawn is the perfect spot. With six dedicated fields for softball and additional spaces for volleyball and basketball, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Please note that organized games require a permit.

Welcome to Little Peepers Preschool, a unique learning experience located at 130 Bayview Avenue, East Islip, New York. Nestled within the scenic South Shore Nature Center, our preschool offers a pioneering nature-based education program for children ages 3 to 6. Guided by the belief that it’s never too early to cultivate a connection with nature, our curriculum combines environmental education with traditional play-based learning, providing children with a rich, hands-on experience. Our program, inspired by the spirited Spring Peeper frog, is the first of its kind in Suffolk County. It offers two daily sessions, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., five days a week. Children will explore and learn through activities that integrate science, art, music, math, language & literacy, and dramatic play, all through the lens of the natural world.

Welcome to Sailors Haven, a serene natural oasis nestled on the picturesque Fire Island, New York. As a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike, Sailors Haven offers a unique blend of pristine landscapes and tranquil surroundings. Located at Fire Island, NY 11770, Sailors Haven is renowned for its unspoiled beauty and vibrant ecosystems. Visitors can explore the enchanting Sunken Forest, a rare maritime holly forest that provides a shaded sanctuary and a glimpse into a unique natural habitat. The forest's boardwalk trails offer a peaceful escape, inviting you to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature.