The Nature Conservancy in New York - Long Island: Calverton Ponds

Calverton Ponds contains one of the highest concentrations of rare and endangered species in New York State.

Visitor Information

The plant communities of Calverton Ponds are fragile and easily trampled. Please stay on the trails when you visit the preserve. Find out more information and directions here or contact the Uplands Farm Sanctuary at (631) 367-3225.

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This 350-acre assemblage of Pine Barrens and Coastal Plain Ponds comprises one of the rarest and most fragile wetland ecosystems in North America. The preserve is cooperatively owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy and Suffolk County Parks.

Location: Calverton, Suffolk County

Size: 350 acres

What to See: Plants
The woodlands here are dominated by pitch pine and oak trees, with a shrub layer of scrub oak, huckleberry and blueberry. A unique community of plants grows along the pond shores, dependent on the rise and fall of the pond levels based on rainfall patterns. Periods of both low and high water levels are essential for their survival.

What to See: Animals
The ponds are home to several rare amphibians, fish and insects, including tiger salamanders and banded sunfish.

Why the Conservancy Selected This Site:
Calverton Ponds and the headwaters of the Peconic River contain one of the highest concentrations of rare and endangered species in New York State, with more than 30 rare plants, including three that are globally threatened.

Visiting the Preserve
Pond shore plants are delicate and easily destroyed by trampling, pets, horses, or vehicles. As you walk along the trails, please abide by the rules for visiting Long Island preserves. Groups are limited to 25 persons and should call in advance for reservations. Contact the Uplands Farm Sanctuary for more information.

From the Long Island Expressway (495E), take Exit 70, Manorville-Eastport.
At the end of the off-ramp, make a left-hand turn and go north for about 0.25 miles to Ryerson Avenue. (The Manorville Post Office is on the corner.)
Go right on Ryerson, crossing the railroad tracks, .2 miles to North Street.
Turn right on North Street for 0.2 miles to where road curves to left, becoming Wading River Manor Road.
Follow this north 0.8 miles and make a right onto Old River Road (not River Road).
Follow 0.4 miles to a small parking area on the left. Please do not block the gate.