Iona Island National Estuarine Sanctuary and Research Reserve
Stony Point, Rockland Co.
Iona Island is one of the largest tidal wetlands along the Hudson, with about 270 acres of freshwater and brackish cattail marshes. It is included as part of the Iona Island/Doodletown Bird Conservation Area. The highlight of a winter visit is seeing bald eagles roosting in treetops, perched on the ice or soaring overhead, attracted by the open water and plentiful fish.
Wildlife to Watch
- Waterfowl, Canada geese and mallards
- Bald eagles
- Smaller birds, including swamp sparrow, marsh wren, willow flycatcher, common yellow throat, and the least bittern, a tiny species of heron
- Muskrat and mink
- Snapping turtles
Where to Watch
- Tidal creeks
- Mudflats
- Marshes
- Half-mile causeway
Recreational Opportunities
- Hiking
- Birdwatching
Size
556 acres
Closest Town
Stony Point
Directions
See Google Maps and enter your address for step by step directions to Iona Island (This link will leave the DEC website. Hold "Shift" down while clicking on the link to open a page in a new window)
Contact Information
Telephone: Hudson River Research Reserve: 845-889-4745 or Palisades Interstate Park Commission: 845-786-2701
Address: Route 9W, Tomkins Cove, NY 10986
Website: Iona Island
Photo Credits: Iona Island National Estuarine Sanctuary, Jim Clayton, Paul T. Schnell