Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge
Address: 3679D Old Post Road, Box 307, Charlestown, RI 02813, USAPhone: 401-364 9124
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Named after one of the original chiefs of the Narragansett Indians, the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is located on the Southern Coast of Rhode Island in the Town of Charlestown, Washington County.
Perched on the shoreline of the largest saltpond in the State, the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge sits upon the glacial outwash plain of the Charlestown moraine, providing the refuge with its unique character.
The wildlife present is as diverse as the vegetation which occupies the land. Over 250 bird species visit seasonally, and 70 species nest on the property, making bird watching and photography popular refuge activities. From saltmarshes, kettle ponds, freshwater wetlands, maritime shrublands and forests dominated by oak or maple, habitat is varied and plentiful.
Originally being used as a Naval Auxiliary landing field during world war II, the main portion of the refuge still contains remnants of the numerous runways, taxi-ways, and buildings which supported the war effort. Many people served their country here, with this rich history celebrated in an interpretive "trails through time" route which passes through the refuge.
Ninigret, along with the four other National Wildlife Refuges in the State are administered by the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex, headquartered in Charlestown, RI.
On the refuge, a new headquarters and visitor center is under construction, scheduled for opening in 2004, which will celebrate Ninigret refuge and all of the other refuges in Rhode Island. This facility will include interactive exhibits, displays, a sales area, and knowledgeable people where visitors can come and explore the refuges and learn about the wildlife resources and coastal environments of each refuge.
Directions
The Ninigret Refuge can be accessed directly from state Highway 1 which follows the Southern Coast of Rhode Island. Our Western entrance is located on highway 1. Our Eastern entrance is accessed from Ninigret Town Park, by exiting route 1 onto Old Post Road, turning right into the Town park entrance, and following the road to its end. Ample parking is available.
Activities
- Interpretive Programs
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing