Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
What started out as a horse racing area, and then a Naval communication site, the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is a great place for families vacationing in the area, or for anyone just out sightseeing for the day. Located between the Sakonnet River and Second Beach, numerous trails lead you through the area with trailside exhibits along the way.
Prior to the 1800’s Sachuest Point was used mainly for sheep grazing and farming. The Navy took over the site during World War II and used the land as a rifle range and communication center. In 1970 the Audubon Society of Rhode Island began the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge.
The Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is home to over 200 species of birds during any given year. Being located on the Atlantic flyway, you may be able to witness the largest colony of harlequin ducks, or migratory birds which occupy the 250 acres of wetland. You may have the opportunity to see the snowy owl, peregrine falcon, or the northern harrier during your visit.
A newly renovated visitor center offers tourists numerous interactive exhibits, displays, a sales area and knowledgeable volunteers and employees who are willing to make your experience to Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge not only a memorable one, but an informative one also. Also making the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge a spectacular place to visit are the numerous viewing platforms throughout the 2.5 miles of nature trails.
