Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
Created in 1966 to protect 1,167 acres of estuary salt marsh and uplands. The refuge also preserves dunes, barrier beach, and a tidal estuary.
Guide Sections
Use Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge's guide sections to understand how this stop fits into the larger park plan.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge Details
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Situated on 9,125 acres of land spread over 50 miles of the southern coast of Maine, Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1966 to protect 1,167 acres of estuary salt marsh and uplands. The refuge also preserves dunes, barrier beaches, and a tidal estuary. The endangered piping plover also nests on the refuge along with bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and least terns, making for excellent bird watching opportunities. The New England cottontail, which is a candidate species of the Endangered Species Act, also resides on the refuge with efforts being made to increase their population. Hooded and grey seals are favorite targets for wildlife photographers, along with moose and black bear. Hunting, fishing, and shellfishing are all permitted on the refuge with proper licenses and permits on a controlled seasonal basis.
