Poricy Park
Park Overview:
Known for the Poricy Pond Fossil Beds, the park also has a small network of hiking trails and two marsh platforms.
Park Description:
The fossil bed at Poricy Brook is what makes Poricy Park different from other nature preserves and historic sites. Not only can visitors dig for fossils, but they may also take them home. The fossils, mostly of shellfish, are approximately 72 million years old. The park asks that visitors sift the sand and gravel in the stream bed and refrain from digging directly into the banks, which causes erosion. As the park frequently schedules programs at the fossil beds, it is advisable to call ahead.
The site includes a restored Colonial house and barn dating to 1767. Although the Township of Middletown owns the land and buildings, the Poricy Park Conservancy [a non-profit organization] provides funding for the programs, professional staff, furnishings, and equipment.
Trails Overview:
The park has a four-mile trail system that leads past a freshwater marsh [with two viewing platforms], a hardwood forest, a pond, wet meadows, fields, and the restored Murray Farmhouse, dating from the 1770s.
To view a park brochure and trail map use the Web Map link on this site. Click for a detailed description of a hike in the park.
Park Acreage:
250.00 acresMunicipality:
MiddletownKnown for the Poricy Pond Fossil Beds, the park also has a small network of hiking trails and two marsh platforms.
The fossil bed at Poricy Brook is what makes Poricy Park different from other nature preserves and historic sites. Not only can visitors dig for fossils, but they may also take them home. The fossils, mostly of shellfish, are approximately 72 million years old. The park asks that visitors sift the sand and gravel in the stream bed and refrain from digging directly into the banks, which causes...