Description: Occupying a peninsula between the Sakonnet River and Rhode Island sound, the 242 acre Sachuest Point National Wildlife refuge is a very popular site for the over 65,000 annual visitors each year.

The refuge sports a newly renovated visitor center, over 2.5 miles of nature trails, viewing platforms, and a number of Refuge volunteers present to help visitors and to help in management of the refuge.

Wildlife to Watch: Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is renowned for the presence of the largest winter population of harlequin ducks on the East Coast.

From salt marsh and beach strand habitats to upland shrub dominated lands, the refuge supports over 200 bird species, with such notable occasional visitors such as the peregrine falcon, northern harrier, and the snowy owl.

Special Tips: Over 2 miles of trails, kiosks, interpretive panels, and viewing platforms await the refuge visitor. Special events, such as the annual take me fishing day, and a host of guided tours and walks are available.

Other Activities: Sachuest Point is renowned for its fishing opportunities, from the avid saltwater flyfisher to families enjoying an afternoon together. Night fishing permits are available at the refuge office.

Driving Directions: The refuge is located in Middletown, Rhode Island. Take route 1 South to route 138 East, over the Newport Bridge. Take the Newport exit and pass through downtown Newport on route 138A. Once through the downtown, you will pass First (or Newport) beach. Just past First beach, take a right onto Purgatory Road. Take a right onto Sachuest Point Drive and follow to the end, which will bring you directly into the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge parking lot.

Ownership: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Size: 242 acres
Closest Town: Middletown

Facilities:

Best Seasons for Wildlife Viewing:

Main Photo Credit: Sachuest Point Refuge By U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters [CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0) or Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Wildlife Viewing Areas

A Guide to North American Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

Verified Listing

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

Login