Charles Flood Brickyard

Outside of Hudson, lies a landscape shaped by both industrial history and ecological recovery: the Charles Flood Empire Brickyard State Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Spanning over 500 acres, this site offers a unique glimpse into the region’s past while serving as a vital sanctuary for New York’s native species.

A century ago, this land hummed with the mechanical rhythm of the Empire Brickyard. The Hudson Valley was once the brick-making capital of the world, fueled by the rich glacial clay deposits along the riverbanks. Today, the towering kilns and smokestacks are gone, replaced by a quiet, burgeoning forest. However, the industrial “ghosts” remain; sharp-eyed hikers can still find remnants of old foundations and stray bricks reclaimed by moss and roots.

Now managed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the WMA has transitioned from an extractive site to a diverse ecosystem. Its mix of upland woods, tidal wetlands, and open meadows provides a critical corridor for migratory birds and local mammals. The shoreline offers stunning, unobstructed views of the Hudson River, making it a favorite for birdwatchers and photographers looking to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle or an osprey.