About Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Established in 1992, Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge is located along the eastern shore of New Hampshire's Great Bay in the town of Newington. The refuge protects a significant area along the seacoast for migratory birds and other wildlife. It is one of the longest stretches of undeveloped shoreline along the bay, and consists of mud flats, salt and freshwater marshes, swamps, ponds, streams, woodlands and fields. These diverse habitats support many plants and animals native to the area, including New Hampshire's greatest concentration of wintering bald eagles, and several state-listed rare and endangered species. The rich and varied habitats of the refuge provide wildlife and visitors alike with a place to rest and recharge. Several recreational opportunities are available for visitors to watch wildlife, hike, bike, and hunt on the refuge. Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge is managed by Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. For more information, please contact Parker River at (978) 465-5753. The general email address for Great Bay NWR is parkerriver@fws.gov
How to Get There
Take exit 1 off Route 16 or Spaulding Turnpike and turn onto Pease Blvd. heading into Pease International Tradeport. Go through one stoplight to a stop sign and turn right on Arboretum Drive. Follow refuge signs for 3 miles to refuge parking lot, office and trails.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1405) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge?
Take exit 1 off Route 16 or Spaulding Turnpike and turn onto Pease Blvd. heading into Pease International Tradeport. Go through one stoplight to a stop sign and turn right on Arboretum Drive. Follow refuge signs for 3 miles to refuge parking lot, office and trails.
How do I contact Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 978-465-5753 or email: parkerriver@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
