[citation needed] Founded in 1960 by Ralph E. Ogden as a museum for Hudson River School paintings, it soon became a major sculpture venue with works from some of the most acclaimed artists of the 20th century.

[6] The core collection includes pieces by modern masters, such as Alexander Calder,[7] David Smith,[8] Mark di Suvero,[9] Henry Moore,[10] Douglas Abdell,[11] Isamu Noguchi,[12] Richard Serra,[13] and Louise Nevelson.

The permanent collection of monumental works is situated throughout the grounds in four main areas: the North Woods, a wooded section in the northeast corner of the property; Museum Hill, an elevated portion on the east edge of the property along the Moodna Creek with views of the surrounding land and its sculptures; the Meadows, which includes the western edge of the park and its entrance; and the South Fields, an open expanse in the southwest portion of the center.

The plateau on which stands a 1935 residence, designed to resemble a Norman chateau and later converted to the museum building, was torn apart in the 1950s by bulldozers gathering gravel for the construction of the New York State Thruway; it had to be rebuilt when the art center was established on the grounds.

[1][23][24] Storm King Art Center offers numerous programs for members and everyday visitors to the grounds, including bicycles available for rent and guided trolley rides.