About Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge
Ningret National Wildlife Refuge, Charlestown, Rhode Island - Salt Pond Unit and Kettle Pond Forested Upland Unit.Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is one of five national wildlife refuges in Rhode Island. Established in 1970, it consists of 858 acres of diverse upland and wetland habitats including grasslands, shrub lands, wooded swamps and freshwater ponds. Formerly part of Charlestown Naval Auxiliary Landing Fields, the refuge now provides visitors with over four miles of hiking trails. You may enjoy an excellent view of Ninigret Pond, the largest coastal salt pond in Rhode Island, from the observation platform at Grassy Point. For the birding enthusiasts, over 250 species of birds have been recorded at Ninigret. Also, refuge shores support a large diversity of marine life such as blue crab, bay scallop, and winter flounder.The parcel of Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge where the Kettle Pond Visitor Center is located is referred to as the headquarters unit. Purchased in 2001, this parcel of forested uplands is home to pitch and white pines, black and white oaks, blueberry shrubs, sweet fern, and princess pine. Hiking along the trails offer visitors a chance to witness visual reminders of the great ice sheet, see changes in the seasonal vernal pool, and views of Watchaug Pond.
How to Get There
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. Our newly built Kettle Pond Visitor Center is directly off of highway, on 50 Bend Road, about 1/2 mile south of the Western entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1537) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge?
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. Our newly built Kettle Pond Visitor…
How do I contact Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 401-364 9124 or email: rhodeislandcomplex@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
