Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge
Northeast Region
 

Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation:

The trails in both the Headquarters and Salt Pond Units of the refuge are open to the public from sunrise to sunset. There are special extended hours for fishing the cinder worm hatch during the month of May.

The Kettle Pond Visitor Center is open everday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except we are closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Please call ahead for additonal closures, or current weather conditions.

Pets

Pets are not allowed on the refuges, except at Kettle Pond Visitor Center. We allow leashed dogs on the trail at Kettle Pond Visitor Center because along the trail at least, there are fewer ground-nesting birds than at other locations on our refuges. Dogs present a threat to many birds, even leashed and well-behaved dogs, that may alter the bird's feeding or breeding activity. This disruption may drive the birds away, which is not allowed in our enabling legislation and approved plans.

Helpful Health Hints

Too often visitors take home unpleasant memories of their refuge experience because they have not been dressed appropriately or sufficiently protected against insects. For that reason, as well as for health concerns, we stress the importance of sharing the following “Helpful Health Hints”:

  • Dress appropriately for the weather and call ahead for current weather conditions.
  • Insect repellent is recommended while hiking the trails. Please do a tick check after every hike on the trails.
  • Poison Ivy is a common sight on the refuge. It is relished by deer and over sixty species of birds eat the berries. All parts of the plant can give people serious rashes during any season. Poison Ivy is distinguished from other plants by its three leaflets per leaf and the alternate leaf arrangement.
  • Bring your own water bottles and drink plenty of water while hiking or engaging in activities around the refuge. Wear sunscreen and loose, layered clothing. Stop and rest frequently. Do not over-exert yourselves.

Group Visits

We have a classroom that can be used by groups for meetings during and after hours. Birthday parties and scout meetings are also popular activities at the visitor center. Please fill out the reservation form found by clicking here: Kettle Pond Visitor Center Reservation Form.

Other Helpful Items to Plan Your Visit

Refuge Brochure and Trail Map

Driving Directions

Visitor Opportunities

List of Wildlife and Plants

 

 
Last updated: January 10, 2012