John H. Chafee
Narragansett, RI 02882
Plan Your Visit
John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge is opened year-round, from dawn until dusk daily. Currently there are no managed trails on the refuge, but there is a kayak ramp and nearby bench for viewing/photography. Fishing is allowed on the shorelines, and hunting opportunities are offered following state and federal regulations.
The kayak launch area at Sprague Bridge off of Boston Neck Road/Rt. 1A in Narragansett (along with a few other shoreline access points) is open to the public every day from sunrise until sunset. There are no other developed visitor use areas on the refuge. The kayak launch area is not accessible by wheelchair or stroller.
Activities
Featured Species
Get Involved
Interested in getting involved with any of the five Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuges or the Providence Urban Wildlife Conservation Partnership? Opportunities include volunteering, internships, employment, and becoming a member of the Friends of the National Wildlife Refuges of Rhode Island.
Working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
About
Established in 1973, the 550-acre John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge at Pettaquamscutt Cove was created primarily to protect the wintering black duck population. The refuge consists of tidal salt marshes and forests that provide essential habitat for various bird species, including the Saltmarsh sparrow, egrets, and herons. While no formal trail system exists, the refuge can be observed from the Narrow River or vantage points at Middle Bridge and Sprague Bridge. The refuge is one of five units within the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex.