Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is one of five refuges of the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex. This refuge, the former Charlestown Naval Auxiliary Landing Facility is located in Charlestown, Rhode Island. The glacial ice sheet and former uses have shaped this refuge's diverse landscape. It is known for its migratory bird species, and its rich history.

Latest Information for Beach Passes, Visitor Center Hours, Hunting Opportunities and Free Public Programs
Kettle Pond Visitor Center 

Regular hours for fall/winter months are 10am to 3pm, 7 days a week.  Thank you to an amazing cadre of passionate and fun volunteers who staff the Visitor Center.

Hunting information

Applications and brochures for the 2023-2024 season are available on our Hunting Activities page.  

Free Public Programs:

  • Wild about Reading, Wednesdays 10:00 am-11:00 am
Learn; about the habitats at RI National Wildlife Refuge by exploring the inside exhibits at the visitor center.

Location and Contact Information

      Our Organization

      Providence youth learning how to identify a song bird that was being banded

      Providence Urban Wildlife Conservation Partnership

      Using the network of over 120 existing and accessible parks in Providence, partners in Rhode Island are coming together to build on conservation initiatives to the city. Learn more about the Providence Urban Wildlife Conservation Partnership and Urban Bird Treaty City. 

      Our Species

      Grey, white and black bird on sand in the foreground

      Size: 18 cm (7.25 in) in length. Color: Breeding season: Pale brown above, lighter below; black band across forehead; bill orange with black tip; legs orange; white rump. Male: Complete or incomplete black band encircles the body at the breast. Female: Paler head band; incomplete breast band....

      FWS Focus
      Brown and gray rabbit hides in the grass

      The New England cottontail (Sylvilagus transitionalis) is a medium-large sized cottontail rabbit that may reach 1,000 grams (2.2 pounds) in weight. Sometimes called the gray rabbit, brush rabbit, wood hare or cooney, it can usually be distinguished from the sympatric eastern cottontail and...

      FWS Focus

      Get Involved

      Looking for internship, volunteer, or job opportunities? Visit our get involved page to learn more!