Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Reviews

Gorgeous place for birdwatching, beach walking. this is a pristine stretch of undeveloped beach- peaceful and unspoiled.

Reasonable cost of entry ($5). Parking was close to beach with a wooden walkway across the dunes. Beach was nice. Since this was the off-season, it was almost abandoned. Restrooms were really clean.

this national wildlife refuge is a wonderful place to observe/photograph birds that live there and migrate through there. there is a fee charged when the entrance is staffed during the warm months.

We've been going here for years. It's one of the most beautiful beaches but unfortunately if you don't arrive at the crack of dawn you won't get in until the end of the day. And beware of July because July is greenhead month and greenheads are vicious!!

I was here many tears ago and on my most recent trip to New England, I made sure I put this Refuge on my list. This is a "Bird Nerd's" paradise as well as a jewel for anyone who loves salt marshes and their unique ecosystems.

Board walkways will take you through the marshes as well as into the sand dunes. Watch for birds and wildlife on the road, too. The scenery and wildflowers are magnificent, as well as the sight, smell, and sound of the sea. Piping plovers were nesting on the beaches, so they were off limits to tourists, but there are plenty of other places to explore. Also, there is a wonderful information center before you get to the Refuge on Plum Island. I love this place.

This is a wonderful place; it's heartening that the government works to protect the lives if birds and their habitats. We took a bus tour which was informative and fun.

The area itself is very nice however it does feel very restrictive and negative. There was a sign at the gate saying the furthest parking lot was full, although we found there were several spaces available. The majority of spaces in the parking lots were closed. The leaflet we were given listed everything you weren't allowed to do, but provided no information about the walks / trails. It would be nice if they were more positive.
The small amount of beach available was very nice for a walk, although we did have to avoid a guy trying to fly a kite.

A birders paradise during migrations, and the longest stretch of unspoiled beach I know in Massachusetts. But the critters rule, from birds to bugs, so not for casual beachgoers.

Well worth a drive so see the beauty of the marshes and all the birds and wildlife. Many trails and observation towers.

This is what a true natural beach and conservation area is.
Many bike trails and lots of wildlife to see. This is an inspirational place just by its simple natural beauty. Enjoy the beach limited parking for visitors, but worth the try.
Unfortunately about 4 miles of the beach have been blocked off to the pubic no explanations given, just lot of no trespassing signs. Sad I remember been able to walk most of the beach area and it was BEAUTIFUL very secluded and peaceful. During June and July bring lots of bug spray the horseflies are nasty!! and if you get bitten it hurts big time.
Our favorite spot on the beach will be kept a secret, each time we go still quiet and peaceful. Enjoy the rest of this most truly natural area by the ocean; you will love it as much as we do.

We love birding at Parker River in the fall. The summer tourists are gone and so are the green head flies. The plover nesting season is over so all the park areas are open to explore. The park is well maintained and has a wonderful visitors center staffed by friendly, knowledgable volunteers who guide you to the best spots , explain the refuge map and facilities on the property. Thank you volunteers!! Serious birders can spend the day here especially during migrations. There's always some surprise waiting. We saw the American Avocet. Parker River is ideal for any outdoor enthusiast. Make sure to have enough time to enjoy all it has to offer.

I live close to Parker River so I have the great advantage of being able to visit it many times. It is only in multiple excursions that you can see the variety of plants and wildlife, especially the birds, in all of their different seasons. Go once and you may see something interesting but just as likely you'll be disappointed. Go back to the refuge a couple or three times a week in all its seasons and you'll be richly rewarded.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge's main unit is on Plum Island; a 7 mile long barrier beach facing the north Atlantic. In early spring, late summer, and early fall this is a mecca for migrating shorebirds. In the winter it's a great place to see the wild Atlantic and seabirds, especially ocean ducks. It's also a great place for spring fall outs of migrating warblers and for fall gatherings of thousands of swallows before they migrate out to sea. In Midsummer (after the greenhead flies are gone) it's a great beach – but you have to get there first thing in the morning pretty much every day.

I was visiting a friend who lives on Plum Island who is a birder and brought me to Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. It definitely helped to have an experienced local guiding me. Late Sunday afternoon we drove to the end to Sandy Point State Reservation and were able to find a spot to park (though not without a nasty guy trying to take our spot - we opted not to argue with him and wait for someone to leave), left our shoes on the sand near the end of the very short boardwalk, and walked for about an hour. We passed fishermen and photographers with serious camera equipment, cool tide trees formed by the outgoing tide. On the way out parking lots had largely emptied out and we stopped at one with a l-o-n-g boardwalk and a beautiful view. The sun was setting and was so spectacular that we had to stop every few hundred yards for more shots of a spectacular red-orange-yellow sunset.

We took the "Behind the Scenes" tour. The guide, Janet, was excellent. The beaches were off limits as it was nesting season, but still well worth the visit.

Beautiful natural setting, great for bird watching and photography. Be sure to check the website during early summer months as some of the beaches are typically closed for piping plover nesting. I live nearby so the $20 annual membership is a steal. I've taken so many beautiful shots here. FYI: The first half of the reserve road is paved and great for bike rides, but the second half is not, and can get pretty dusty for riders.

This was a great winter to see snowy owls at Parker River
Parker River is a great place to visit any month out of the year.

If you goal is to take a nice walk along the boardwalks that go back and forth between the beach and the marshes, then this is a lovely place. If you are looking for wildlife, then check with the locals. When we where there, there was no wildlife to speak of. Not sure if it was time of day or the time of year.

We rented a car and drove here from Boston. Visiting the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island was a highlight of the day. It's beautiful and well worth a stop. We saw a lot of birds. It was nice to walk on the boardwalk. Excellent views for bird watching. Plus, the nearby beach was open.

Fabulous reserve, but beware of the green heads in July. They were so bad today that there was a warning at the ticket booth, the ranger confirmed that it's the middle of their season and a calm day so they were out in force. We did not stay, but will be back in the fall.

Beautiful and stunning park with varied habitats. Great for bird-watching, nature walks, and enjoying a special and unique place. It's the Everglades of New England.

If you've never been, be sure to visit this refuge. My family and friends have been birding there for more than 30 years.

Visiting this area for the first time. Hope to return. The visitor centre was excellent with interactive activities for children and quiet area with wi fi and library.

Parker River Wildlife Refuge is wonderful. It has beaches, hiking trails (dunes & marshes) along with information available about wildlife. I love this place....and since I live close by I visit often.

My wife and I enjoyed using our free military National Park Service pass to gain entry to Parker River Wildlife Refuge at not cost. We drove the entirety of the refuge, stopping at a few points of interest along the way. We walked along the beach for a quarter mile or so and then back. We had a great day to visit the refuge!

The building has lots of information about birds in the area, great, clean bathrooms, and views out to the marsh area. We didn't have time to walk around outside, but loved the details we were able to see inside the building. We would visit again for more bird watching.

True amazing place has a lot to offer. Late summer afternoon with soft breeze make this a nice walk. With one side access to beach and other marsh land. You won’t be sorry to spoil a good afternoon here.

We came from California and are riding bikes. Yesterday was a dreary, rainy day. We rode out here and you can hear the birds! It was beautiful and peaceful. Some walks were closed. Probably really nice on a clear day, but more crowded. Glad we came!

After driving 2 hours to get there, a rather unpleasant and unapologetic woman at the visitor's center desk told us it was now closed to everyone else coming in. (It was Sunday at about 10:30 AM). She smugly told us that when their parking lot fills up they close admittance to the sanctuary to everyone else, and she said that if we wanted to get in on a weekend we would have to "get there by 7 AM". REALLY? NOWHERE ON THEIR SITE DOES IT SAY THIS. We planned our trip for weeks. (Contrary to some reviews, there is NO other place to park to gain access, and we were given no other option to get into the park.) My husband called a few days before, and NOTHING LIKE THIS WAS EVER MENTIONED BY THE WOMAN ON THE PHONE WHEN HE CALLED TO MAKE SURE THEY WERE OPEN THIS SUNDAY, and saying that it was our first trip to Plum Island. We are completely disgusted. This is a HUGE area that should be open to all and accessible more ways then a silly parking lot. The fact that NONE of this is mentioned by them is ridiculous in the extreme. We stopped people coming into the center on our way back to our car and told them what she said to us, and no one else could believe it either. We won't be going back. (Parker is probably really nice if you could ever get in, but to mislead people, and not have any of this info on their sites is just---bad.) There are many state parks, and other areas where everyone can go anytime and not be greeted by a snarky woman and the news that they can't get in. Plum Island traffic in town was a zoo, and no place to park there to see the beach or anything else, so it was too late for us to do much else. We ate the lunch we brought in a park in lovely Ipswich, and drove home. We'll be going clamming (for free) in a Maine State Park on the ocean soon to make up for our disaster day trying to get into Parker!

Beautiful area, not all trails were open. Marsh and sea disturbed
Not too many visitors, a few fishermen, photographers, lots of bird watchers … all equipped with really impressive Swarovski optic.

We spent a few hours hours at the refuge enjoying the drive, the lookout spots and the beach. The day was peaceful and relaxing.

We quite often go to the Refuge to just walk the trails or the wonderful beach.
So far the allusive Snowy Owl has avoided us.
The park is open from Dawn to Dusk but in the summer it quite often fills up for traffic by 9AM.

Plenty of trails to walk and lots of wildlife to see. You can walk the trails on the marsh or walk the trails on the dunes to see the ocean views. Bird lovers will enjoy the trails. Lots of people walking, jogging and riding bikes on the main road.

Since our last visit, extensive boardwalks have been built, with spurs that lead to interesting views. It's beautiful, natural, and quiet. We love it.

This place is spectacular. We visited today for my first time ever! We stopped at the visitor center and spoke to a wonderful volunteer named Kate. She was informed and articulate as she told us about the various stops we'd make along the way.

Upon entering the gate we purchased a Federal Duck stamp for $15 that would get us in to any Federal Preserve for 1 yr. Road well maintained with several bathrooms available. The layout is well thought out and easy for all travelers whether, driving, cycling, hiking, or wheelchair. The birds are amazing and the beach is beautiful. We will be back as it is only 45 min from our home!

This beach is the most beautiful beach in my world! I have travelled to many carribean islands and Costa Rica and my hometown harbors the most beautiful beach especially when it is fully open which unfortunately is rare!

This was one of the first places I visited when trying to decide to move here. I loved it then and now. There are so many different things to see at every time of year! Different birds, scenic vistas, I hear there are other animals but I have not had the pleasure of meeting them yet and just beautiful beaches. Great for the nature adventurer, bird watcher (Mass Audubon does tours). Also stop by the Mass Audubon Joppa Flats or Parker River Headquarters prior to the park to get info on where to go to get the best view at this time of year. They are a wealth of information along with the ranger/guard/cashier who is also happy to give you a bit about where to go for the best birding. Great staff here.

If you go, stop in one of the few restaurants and talk with some friendly locals too. Plum Island is a different kind of gem.

Every time I go to walk the paths or the beach I feel like I am in another world! Breathtaking! So many spots to discover. Great place to take a walk, bird watch or picnic on the beach! Great trails!

It was my birthday and the wife and I were trying to think of a nice walk near the beach. We read online that Plum Island has some nice trails through marsh with wildlife. We decided to take the drive through Newburyport, pay the $ 5.00 parking fee and the entrance gate and have a walk. It was well worth it. We started at the beach, where we watched the waves crashing onto the sand. We walked close to the dune and then we headed to the refuge area, mainly the Hellcat Wildlife area. We got a nice view from an observation tower, which gave great views of the North Pool. We also took the boardwalk trails around the area, through the Dune Loop. The boardwalk was safe and well maintained (although a bit buggy in some areas). Lots of tall grass and thick brush throughout. On the way out, we got to see the sun set over Plum Island sound, whilst watching a Great Egret look for its supper. It was a nice way to end my birthday. Well recommended to others who like wildlife walks.

I really do love this beach, it is beautiful. However, the staff, volunteers, rangers, etc. and their pompous attitudes really ruin the experience. On our most recent visit, we asked the payment kiosk employees when the other parking lots would be open and basically got a death stare and attitude. We just asked a question. No need for an attitude. We also saw a ranger screaming at a family packing up their car to leave for having a kite. I get it, there are protected birds here that quite possibly taste like chicken, but screaming at a family? Totally unnecessary ranger power trip. The employees here really need an attitude adjustment and maybe training in how to smile and how to play nice with others.

A gem so close to town! Very relaxing, great opportunity for photographing wildlife. Beach is clean and a fun place to look for shells and driftwood.

We are not experienced birders but we were there in mid September on a gloriously sunny and warm day and saw tons of birds wherever we looked. We were there mid-day, too, which apparently isn't prime time for bird watching. We have been to several National Wildlife Refuges along the Atlantic Flyway at about the same time each year and this is by far the best.

Plum Islandb is a wonderful place, especially off season. So gorgeous and natural, it restores one. We stayed at the Compass Rose and the inn was delightful. Because of TONs of snow we were lucky to be central and able towable most placed.,mand Agave was very good, and lose to the inn.

Beaching, birding, bicycling and more; this federal reservation is the best in the Newburyport area. There are no life guards on the beach which may be closed during part of the summer for nesting birds but the reservation is still open for other activities. Beware of the biting greenhead flies that are present in July. Drop by the federal building for information and interesting exhibits before your first visit to the reservation. There is a fee to enter the reservation.

Every time I visit the refuge, I am reminded how lucky I am to live so close to such an incredible natural resource. The birding is incredible if you are into that. I just go to enjoy the landscape and take in the natural beauty of the area.

Lots of trails to explore. Wildlife is usually easy to spot. Local turkeys roam around. Great place for birding! Bring your camera and binoculars because you will never know what might show up! Great place for a family outing.
Love this place!

I have been going there since I was little with school. And when my kids were in elementary school they did the same. It is peaceful and beautiful there.

I wasn't sure what to expect but I knew I wanted to come check it out. Spent about 4 hours here. Can drive through and never get out of your car but you will be missing so much. At the beginning there is access to a beach but I wanted to see what was beyond the beach parking area before stopping...at the end of the road you are in Sandy Point State Park...I stopped there also for beautiful photos. There was a section of the beach closed because of the pregnant piping plovers. Turned back into the wildlife refuge and headed back toward the beach. Really cool "nest" near the restrooms for Purple Martins! Saw at least five of them Great place! Cost was $5 for the day...great value!

Wow what can I say about Parker River. It’s one of a kind. It’s the type of place 30 years from now you will be telling someone “I’ve been going here for 30 years”. You go once...you’ll keep going. Peaceful. Clean. Quiet. Simply amazing. I love the beaches, the wildlife, the people and you will too. Bring a camera!

This is one of my favorite places to go year round. If you enjoy wildlife and strolling through marsh and sand dunes, this is the place. The spring and fall migration of birds is not to be missed. Make sure you stop at the visitor center prior to you visit to the island and get some tips from the rangers there!

Great nature sanctuary for a spring, summer and fall hike. Bring binoculars for viewing birds and animals.

Had a beautiful bike ride with daughter-in-law, her mother and my two grandsons. Went to the end of the paved road, climbed the tower and walked one of the boardwalks near the tower. Brought a picnic and enjoyed some family time.

I walked the Hellcat Boardwalk Loop for the first time back in November and fell in love with the pampas grasses then caught the sunset before heading home.

There is ample parking in the lot and the whole trail is stroller and handicap accessible, with a strong, even boardwalk and plenty of benches to stop and rest. There is also an observation tower that is perfect for 360 views and photos, especially at sunset!

All in all, it's a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the day!

We came here on a warm, sunny September day and enjoyed both the beach and bird watching. After relaxing for a bit by the ocean, we drove down the refuge road looking for birds. At one stop, we saw 19 great egrets preening in the late afternoon sun.

You can't beat the scenery here. Miles and miles of trails throughout the conservation land. Great bird watching area. The wooden boardwalks extend deep into the marshes for many more miles. Bring some water a lunch and a good book and relax for the day.

We very much enjoyed the refuge. Their pathways are very well maintained making it easy to get around. Many different varieties of birds just waiting to have their picture taken.

Lived on Plum Island and worked virtually ... so lunch at the end of the refuge overlooking Little Neck and Cranes Beach was a little bit of heaven. Parking can get tight, but don't give up ... it is worth the extra effort. Also ... VERY IMPORTANT ... Check to find out if the green heads are gone. They can arrive early July and stay into August.

I have been here many times before, and try to get here at least yearly. I came here with my sister, who'd been with me before many years ago. It is always a treat. If you don't possess a park pass, it's a reasonable $5.00 entry fee per vehicle, and the number of vehicles allowed in is restricted. Summer times can be very crowded, so you either want to get here early, or come mid-afternoon after the first wave of beachgoers has left. The refuge has bathroom facilities in several locations, board walk paths, bird blinds for viewing wildlife, two observation towers and miles of beach access.

On this visit, the piping plovers were nesting, so beach access was quite restricted, and could only be accessed from the first parking lot. At Lot 7 you can get to the rocks and beach, and are not able to walk the beach northward because of the plover restriction. However, the refuge then leads you to Sandy Point State Reservation beyond Lot 7, and you can access the beach there near the mouth of the Parker River. From there you can see across the channel to Castle Hill and Crane's Beach, Ipswich. There is 6 miles of walking beach at the refuge normally. Swimming is not advised due to the strong undertow. Anglers can often be found along the beach: their off-road vehicles allowed, which is most unfortunate, in my opinion. The road which traverse the refuge is paved until about half-way, when it turns into packed dirt. Dust is easily kicked up by vehicles' wheels, and the speed limit is 25 mph, though many travel much faster than that, posing a threat to wildlife in the roadway and causing unwanted noise pollution.

Over 300 species of resident and migratory birds, mammals, insects, reptiles and amphibians reside in the refuge year-round. White tailed deer tend to come out at dusk. The refuge comprises 4700 acres of diverse habitat including sandy beach and dunes, cranberry bog, maritime forest and shrub land, and freshwater marsh along the Parker River. The road bisecting the refuge passes through parts of the towns of Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley and Ipswich.

Trash receptacles are limited but available. Sadly, we noticed a fair amount of human trash left in the brush or along the roadside. While most visitors are respectful, and bring in/bring out their picnics and personal items... there are always a few who have little respect for nature or for themselves, leaving their unwanted litter behind. Despite this, my sister and I loved our day at the refuge. It was cool and breezy, but sunny, and it was not overcrowded with people.

I will go back of course.... again and again to get my "fix" of the natural world and the relative quiet of this beautiful preserve.

Beautiful area . A lot of walking but boardwalks are very nice. Beach areas are very clean and sandy. Stay away from the beach area at the farthest point of Plum Island near the Merrimac River. People walk their dogs and the beach smells putrid. Shame. Such a nice island. Bob's Lobster also has great food.

beautiful natural barrier island scenery with easy access either by car, bike, or kayak. birdwatching spectacular especially during the migration season...the refuge is bracketed by a state park and local town beaches all within an easy ride from downtown Newburyport. Make sure to stop by the Refuge's/ MA Fish and Wildlife visitor's center on the Plum Island Turnpike as you head out to Plum Island. (It's is on your right across the street from the MA Audubon Center). The visitor center has great programs for children and wonderful exhibits for all.

The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge was a surprising discovery on a recent trip to Newburyport.

It has miles of beaches, dunes and wetlands to be enjoyed. Very clean and interesting for families.

A word of caution: Much of the beachfront is now closed due to a protected species of wildlife so the one available parking area fills quickly. Best to check if you are planning to visit the beach.

$20.00 gets you rights to come and go as you please for one entire season! Great find! Parker River offers so many wonderful things to do! Sit, beach comb, walk the many boardwalks among marshes and woods, bike ride. GREAT shells and sand-dollars. I always find something interesting here when I visit. One issue with the refuge can be fullness. If it is full, you can't enter. That's an issue! If you travel a bit you may try to check their website 1st to see if you'll be denied. Also, check all the rules and regulations before planning a visit. No dogs, no kite flying, things like that are important to know if you are planning a day and would like to include those features into your day. Plan ahead and it will be great!

My husband and I had a amazing afternoon, walking on the beach and was amazed to see a snowy owl. Beautiful, clean and very well maintained sanctuary. We recommend this place to anyone that is looking forward to Relax.

What a beautiful refuge, the paths out to the Marshes are especially beautiful and worth seeing. Lots of plovers and other birding opportunities.

Long drive on Plum Island to get to the end. Becomes a dirt road. Many of the parking lots were closed. Some due to Piper Plover Nesting, so that was understandable. Lots of green head flys, so really couldn't be outside for long.

A great destination at any time of year. Particularly appealing during the bird migrations of Fall and Spring - a major landing zone for North <--> South migration seasons. The beaches ar long and great for walking and for small children - as slope is very shallow and water gentle ( also warmer due to shallow depths).

Visit the Audobon and National Park Visitor Centers ( on road to the REfuge)

This is an amazing place for bird watching and enjoying nature. The most famous spot is the parking lot #4, where the observation deck is. However, the entire 6 mile stretch is beautiful. I saw a lot of folks biking with their kids. It was little overcast day, however I was able to capture beautiful sunset and bird photographs. I now plan to visit in winter to see if I can capture photos of snow owls.

Since I moved to the Newburyport area a few years ago, I have visited the Parker River Wildlife Refuge on numerous occasions. Situated on the southern end of Plum Island, visitors will find a vast array of flora, fauna and wildlife. Great Blue Herons, red-winged blackbirds, cardinals, osprey, owls, eagles, deer and many more species can be spotted almost anywhere in this area. There is a parking area located next to the observation tower. This is a great place to go for a relaxing walk while taking in "nature's show". Children old enough to appreciate it will also enjoy it. The admission price is also reasonable and National Park passes are accepted. NB: Admission does not permit visitors to use the nearby beaches.

The weather was not conducive to a great afternoon but did not spoil our time there. It also kept the numbers down so the parking lots and trails were virtually empty. Many different environments including beach, wetlands and forest. Many different species of birds, including my first Black-and-white Warbler which took a liking to my bald head (maybe a disliking) and dive bombed me. The Purple Martin feedboxes outside the first information center were fascinating.
A great place to spend a half day for all of the family, or a whole day for those interested in completing the numerous trails.
There is an entrance fee of $5 per car, unless one of your party has a National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.
Bob Lobster, just over the bridge, is a great place to eat on the way out or to buy fresh fish for later.

My review is for the Visitor Center only. Specifically the "volunteer" staffing the desk on the afternoon of June 28. I approached the desk - she would not look up. After standing there for a while, I said "excuse me, we'd like to purchase a pass to view the refuge." She literally snorted and said "You people make me laugh. You really do. I am not allowed to take money. I'm only a volunteer" She then said to go down the road, look for a diner and turn right. Said we probably wouldn't find a parking space, but we could certainly try. I almost always find volunteers to be enthusiastic people who like people and love the cause for which they are volunteering. This one made me feel stupid.

the entirety of plum island is fun during the peak summer months, but our favorite time to visit is offseason. There is a lot of good bird watching to be had, without even trying. The board walks that weave through the island are fun for families and a great way to enjoy nature without committing to a hours long hike.

Its a great and beautiful spot to get some exercise and enjoy the outside. Its also very dog friendly

We came to walk the long and splendid beach this Veterans' Day. It was a beautiful day, sun, sand and sparling ocean waves, white spindrift against the blue ocean and sky.. Sandpipers darted in and out of the waves. Lots of birders, nature trails. wow.

The beach was wonderful. Part of it was closed for the nesting birds but the part of it that was open was very nice. Very good value considering it costs $20 or more to park at most beaches on the north shore. Beautiful scenery all around ! A little further into the reserve make sure to stop by and climb up the observation tower to get a birds eye view of the salt marshes.

Went on a cooler day so we only saw a few of the dreaded geen flies. They are only out in June thru August. The ranger said they are more active the warmer it gets. Just like wasps and hornets just be on the lookout for them and you will be fine.

We went here to look at nature and some small nature walks with my 5 1/2 year old daughter. It was early Spring so things were still bare but it's still a beautiful area. It was a warm Spring day, you should be aware of the sun when visiting and wear sunscreen as there isn't a lot of shade cover, it's a pretty open seashore area. I knew my daughter would love the boardwalk loops. About midway there is a long boardwalk trail that has a marsh loop, woods walk and dune loop. I just love walking on boardwalks. The views are great over the marshes and dunes. This location is also very popular with bird watchers. You might want to bring your binoculars. You can also go to the beach and see the ocean. But this is a nature preserve and large sections of the beach are often closed to the nesting plover birds. There is also an observation tower. As a place for young kids to explore, it's great. And the scenery never disappoints. There are ample restrooms as well that are clean. And it's only $5.00 for a car to drive in!

A quick drive through the park was enjoyable, with the beauty of the stark landscape and the quiet of the marshes.

Great to visit all year round Good for birding and photography.

People bike ride or walk. There is a fee for entrance

Beautiful beautiful beautiful describes this refuge from the wildlife to the trails to the beaches just can’t be beat.

Great place to go for a walk. Peaceful but bring bug spray! There's beach access from the parking lots.

I've lived in Mass my whole life and never visited this beautiful refuge. Although some of the people visiting are kind of snobby, don't let that detract you from visiting the beautiful beaches and trails. Definitely want to go back soon.

Birds, foliage, habitat - far more diverse than expected! Recommend a slow pace and really look. Bring binoculars and a bird book. Enjoy this resource.

So - a wildlife refuge - how much can you say. If you are into the ocean, sand dunes, sea birds, et al, this is a wonderful spot. If you are able-bodied, park and walk - boardwalk over the dunes to the shore, and up and down on the sand. But if you're not, like my friend, then pull over into one of the observation areas, roll the windows down and just breath deeply, and watch. . . .

This proved a "refuge" indeed during the long pandemic, as the migratory birds and other animals carried right on, providing much-needed psychological relief and inspiration. And now with the world reopened, we returned and were rewarded by a thrilling gathering of snowy egrets, a sort of picturesque avian family reunion, complete with eating, chattering, squawking, conflict, reconciliation, and occasional flight. The boardwalks to the sea and marshes entice as ever, but sometimes, as in this case, a marvel of nature unfolds directly by the roadside.

This spot is very nice for a bike ride, a walk along the road where you can do some birdwatching, or a walk on the beach. The beach areas are really nice and very clean, although they are not meant for the general public since parking is very limited. Lot 1 is the only one with plenty of spots, but a small lot non-the-less. The other parking spots can only accomdate about 5-10 cars. There are bathrooms at two locations and they were well maintained. The lady at the gate was really nice. This spot is worth the visit.

We went here for a few hours, but could easily have spent the day. There are many trails to walk and lots of birds to see. We will be going back again to enjoy another relaxing walk with nature. The best thing to do is to stop at the visitors center to get a feel for what there is to do and some maps. It is important to note there are multiple rest rooms throughout the area, don't be afraid to pack water.

Came here on a warm September day with a friend and had a blast. Great price to park and the beach is more than big enough to go for a walk, or just chill out away from the crowds. Saw plenty of wild life including Monarchs and Mantis. Just be sure to cover your sandwiches from Seagulls!

Beautiful way to spend a day with my camera and the birds. Very peaceful and easy to find solitude. One of my favorite places in the area.

I almost don’t want to tell anyone about this lovely gem. Uncrowded, very reasonable parking. Beautiful stretch of beach with grassy dunes and adorable piping plovers skittering about. Water was warm enough to enjoy. Lovely views across to Cranes and Cape Ann. A national treasure.

Have been going to Parker River since I was a child. Beautiful beach, nice boardwalks to look at wild life. Speed limit I believe is 20 MPH, which is perfect. You can see wildlife when driving.

Lovely and extensive nature preserve. Beautiful spot for nature, birds, beach, salt marsh. You can drive the length of Plum Island, with frequent pull-offs where you can see the local environment and wildlife.

Loved the boardwalked interpretive walk that loops through the dunes! The guide is extremely well written in highlighting the big picture about the ecological importance of the plant species in each section of the dunes. Some marvelous turkey sightings on the road and along the trail, too! And we loved watching the birdwatching humans watch the birds, from the experts with their big spotting scopes to the folks just following along behind the turkeys and gobbling at them.

We drove north to Newburyport from Northboro, MA with the hopes of seeing some great wildlife and we were not disappointed.

This is a great location for wildlife viewing. It’s easy to get to, there is a good amount of parking and there are lots of trails that are super easy and friendly for all types of bird watchers (our 4 year old was with us and had a great time on our “adventure”).

We didn’t even get to the ocean, we stayed on the plum island side of road and it was perfect, I look forward to going back to get the full spectrum of sea birds.

We saw a ton of snowy egrets, herons, cormorants, osprey, Canadian geese, red winged black birds, plovers and countless other birds species! The landscape was beautiful and is definitely a great place for taking nature pictures.

There were areas that were a bit buggy and I’m sure it depends on the time of year so I would bring bug spray just in case. A hat and sunscreen would be a good idea as well.

I so look forward to going back and I definitely recommend taking the trip, it’s a really beautiful place.

This is why we go to Newburyport! Very protected area for wildlife. Trails, birds, nature protected for miles.

When the entire family seems to be on each other....get'em over to this beautiful ocean park. Fun for all ages.

The sky was bright, the wind just breezy, and the road uncrowded as we cycled past salt water ponds, dunes, bushes bright with red berries, and avid birdwatchers with binoculars affixed to their faces.
From parking lot 1 to the end of the road is 8 miles each way, about 4 paved, the rest gravelly. Although this was a holiday, there wasn't much traffic. There are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the open views of the Parker River saltmarshes, giant windmills to the southeast, and, at the end of the trail, the ocean breaking over sandbars, the openings of both the Ipswich and Essex Rivers, and the rocky northern coast of Cape Ann.
The park facilities are spotlessly clean, admission is $5 for a car, free for cyclists and pedestrians, and it helps to have the National Parks pass.
Enjoy!

We stopped first at the visitor's center, which is just before you hit Plum Island. They were friendly and helpful. They gave us a map, a list of birds we might see, helpful tips, and personal suggestions about where to stop. They also filled us in on the fact that the Refuge more or less closes from April until the end of July to protect the nesting of the endangered piping plover.
It's $5 to enter the park. There are no amenities other than a few composting toilets. We spent a couple of hours here, and didn't get to see everything. I strongly feel that we'll be back.
We saw turkeys, a harrier (bird of prey), two kinds of sparrows, chickadees, a variety of waterfowl, piping plovers, a fisher cat (!), and a shrew.
I learned afterwards that MA Audubon at Joppa, nearby, hosts birding walks through the Refuge, which I think could also be an interesting addition to the overall experience.

Such a beautiful place to visit. Peaceful. Stunning views. Very popular with bird photographers. Nicely maintained boardwalk traversing through the wild. The Atlantic Ocean on the east side of the road. Salt Marshes on the west side of the road.

We really enjoyed our visit, we were there for birding and were not disappointed. We couldn’t access the beach as it was closed. We would definitely go again for birding. Trail wasn’t too long and we would like to walk the beach

Great for bird watching and seeing all sorts of wildlife. Many trails to walk, and educational opportunities. Natural beauty at it's best.

Make time for this. Get info online before you go. Kids love it. The whole family will love it. If the air is still bring bug spray. Drive or walk from place to place in the Refuge. Great and interesting visitor center. Like the title says "Wish i had more time".

Slightly off season is best and definitely avoid mid july-early august-- green head season. Each stop is beautiful. On the right, you can walk on boardwalks into the marsh and there is a birdwatching tower toward the end of the drive. On the left, stops for ocean walks/swimming with few other people around. My favorite stop is the very last ocean stop. You can comb among the rocks, then walk and walk as far as you possible want to. Bring plenty of water, snacks nothing in the refuge by way of supplies once you pass the entrance.

I visited here several years ago and decided I needed another trip. It was raining when we arrived so we visited the visitor center. The staff in there was very informative. The displays were great and helped us plan what we wanted to see while there. we traveled the the end of the preserve and started there the beach was very littered, Each beach there after were amazing. The number of birds were amazing and something to keep each of us busy while we were there with beaches, hiking, birding etc

If you like birding and wide open spaces, beautiful beaches. Go. Now. Serene, green and incredible! Go in the early morning or at dusk for the best birding. On this visit we watched a harrier hunt at dusk, and saw 9 types of sandpiper water birds....

Parker River Refuge is a wonderful spot - with beaches, walking trails, places to just sit and think, do photography, painting, sketching, go for a walk with friends and family and appreciate the wonderful natural surroundings.

The main refuge road runs in one straight line, north to south from the refuge gate at the north, to Sandy Point State Park at the south. East of the road are dunes, and wooded areas next to the Atlantic Ocean. West of the road are marshes, streams, pools, salt pannes, with the hills of Newbury, Rowley, Ipswich in the distance. In many places on the refuge, you can hear the crashing of the waves even if you are not right on the beach.

It is a wonderful place for birding and appreciating nature year round*.
The refuge road is paved most of the way, so it's good for walking or biking. It's a gravel road on the southern end, so better for traveling by car. There are walking trails, boardwalks off the main road, so visitors can access the beach (when it's not closed for breeding birds) and overlooks to the marsh, areas to put in canoes.

The Refuge staff often have tours and info sessions...check at the headquarters on the right as you head out to Plum Island. (The headquarters is also a good place to stop for information about the refuge, the wildlife in the area and the history of the refuge...also good rest rooms) Mass Audubon Joppa Flats also offers nature walks and informative tours. Their headquarters is on the left as you head out to Plum Island.

Entry is pretty inexpensive: $2 on foot or bike, $5 per car. For $20 you can get a year round pass, or even better, for $25, you can get a Federal Duck Stamp that supports wildlife habitat and gives you 1 year access to all National Parks. (There are also discounted entry passes for Seniors and for some other programs) I think the gate house only accepts cash (no credit cards). Also, keep in mind, since it's a wildlife refuge, no pets are allowed, even in your car.

* Though the refuge is a wonderful place to visit year round, July is green-head season in the area salt marshes, including the refuge. Those flies are incredibly annoying and persistent, and will give nasty bites. So if visiting in July, your best bet would be to view the refuge from the safety of your car :) Other times, the ocean breezes keep most of the bugs at bay.

We spent several hours here bird-watching and it was just idyllic. I, particularly, loved the Dune and Marsh Loops and learning more about the salt marshes. Just fascinating! We were there in mid-May and flowering shrubs were in full bloom, so it added to our experience. I enjoyed photographing the terrain, as much as seeing the wildlife. Highly recommend for nature lovers and bird-watchers, especially at this time of year, but be warned that some of the trails can become crowded at the weekend, especially if there are bird-watching groups present. On some of the narrow trails, you may have to wait to get through, if a rare bird has been sighted.

Nice beaches but often closed. (Plover nesting) Long drive to find out no beaches open. A large sign at the entrance noting closed beaches would be a nice gesture by the NPS. The beach right after the gate is usually opened, try it.

We went to Plum Island (Parker River Refuge) to watch birds, but I guess I should have done more research - all we saw was a couple of turkeys, a pair of swans, and a few Black ducks. We did enjoy a nice lunch on the beach. Only a small section of their expansive beach was open, though, due to the nesting area of the piping plovers.

Located on Plum Island, the reserve is a 10 minute drive from downtown Newburyport. There are several parking lots spread along the 7 mile stretch with modern rest stop just inside the main gate. You can bike or drive along the mostly paved roadway as well as walk through the dunes. Wide selection of birds and wildlife to observe as well as sandy beaches to walk or picnic. Minimal entry fee or use a national park pass. Best visited during the week as they limit entry on busy weekends during the warmer weather

This place is a gem! On the weekends they offer free tours in a van with a guide . Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. A group of 14 people are taken out with a tour guide and get to see a lot of behind the scenes things. If you are a birder, bring your binoculars. You will not be disappointed. This is not a trip for small children. Check their website for details, and call to make a reservation.

Fabulous beach and great isolated area to walk on soft sand. Waves crashed and the sun shined and I hated leaving this great site. Took in many of the bird areas in the surround salt marsh area. It was a wonderful way to spend the day.

Our learning experience started at the headquarter located right across the road from Yoppa Flat Sanctuary. I highly recommend watching their short video introduction of Plum Island before visiting the refuge. Their museum exhibits are also kids friendly. My 8 and 9 year olds spent almost an hour exploring the exhibits. Most of the parking lots and beach front inside the refuge were close in July and August, due to the efforts of protecting the endangered piping plovers and their babies. But, we still spotted a good number of birds along walking trails or at different look-out areas on a hot summer day between 11am-2pm: blue herons, egrets, blue jays, robins, cormorants, and a rare avocet. Can't imagine how many more birds we could have encountered if we went in early morning or late evening! Bring your binoculars and enjoy the self guided tour. We are also planning to sign up for one of their behind the scene weekend tour with the park ranger.

Everything moves slower here, so it is all the more astounding when a previously unseen bird flashes through the trees or over the salt marsh or a squatter muskrat swims out of the beaver lodge. Plum Island (home to Parker River National Wildlife Refuge) is right in the migration-route flyway for millions of birds each year, so it's possible to see any number of species not native to New England. But patience is the keyword. On the way in, the speed limit is 25 mph, but most cars drive more slowly because there is so much to see. The Hellcat Trail splits into a marsh trail (pictured) and a dune trail, at the apex of which is a lookout platform from which you can see 360°—the Atlantic Ocean, Plum Island, the salt marshes, the mainland. This is not the place to come for the beach-crowd "scene," because the beach on the preserve cannot be built on, and even the beachiest of beach days is quiet and relaxed. And it is just as wonderful in different ways in autumn and winter.

A beautiful natural area. Great for bird watchers and walking along beautiful sea coast beaches. Sections are seasonally close because of the Piping Plover habitat. This is a f dermal wildlife area.

Parker River Preserve is a wonderful place to enjoy some natural beauty. There are unspoiled beaches, some were closed to the Piping Plover hatching season during out visit, and a few areas where one could see some birds. We hiked the hellcat boardwalk trail which goes through some marshland and over dunes on a well-maintained boardwalk. You are rewarded with some magnificent ocean views and might catch a glimpse of a plover. Overall, the preserve is a great place to get outside and enjoy nature, a must visit if in the area.

Beautiful area, staff super friendly and knowledgeable. Chilly day so we only took a short walk this time.

Took family from California to walk the beach. Good day for all and everyone was impressed by the scenery.
Nice we no longer need to share the space with green heads and plovers.
Too bad the Rangers can't figure out a way to keep track of people coming and going at Sandy Point. They turn many families away not paying attention to the fact that the early morning birders have left and indeed there are parking spaces available. Should be an easy fix. We have been sent away many times and been told that there were indeed newly open spaces.

A peaceful refuge for nature lovers - the beach is great for walking, but not recommended for surfing; the trails are short - more like a stroll, so not a destination for exercise; A+ bird watching; great for sunrise or sunset; if you have a dog, do not make the trip - they are absolutely not allowed in; if you have the time, travel all the way to the state park at the end, too. The visitor's center is a few miles away from the refuge itself, which is rather odd - but worth a stop.
CAUTION Do not attempt to visit if greenhead season - unbearable; and if the plovers are nesting, there is very little beach access. I love visiting in the off-season best (Fall, Winter, Early-Spring

Excellent adventure. Spent the afternoon exploring different spots. Walked along both trails at location number 4. Beach is very pretty at Emerson rocks location 7. During summer I would recommend bug spray. Good trip for only $5.

If you are in the area and have a few hours to kill, this is a nice place to do so. Nice views and walks through the dunes.

A Beautiful day to explore, the beach there along with observation towers and wild life refuge. I took many pics and will share some along with a beautiful sunset to end the day .It was hard only putting up 15 pics. below as I took hundreds. This is such a beautiful area.

I'm a frequent visitor to the reservation. I'm always taking family and friends up the plum island River to Sandy Point which is at the end of the reservation.
When not boating I'm walking on the reservation just enjoying the sheer beauty. The many different walkways to various parts of the reservation should all be seen atleast once and then you decide which path to take....

My husband and I went here in hopes of getting our steps in for the day. I made the assumption there were plenty of walking trails. We joined a short line of cars to enter the park for $5. There is a lesser fee for walkers and bike riders. We didn’t have a map or any sense of where we were heading. There were signs at the entrance that stated the Sandy Point beach lot was full and there was no parking. We asked at the entry kiosk about other ways to see the refuge and were given a parking lot recommendation. We were just looking for a place to walk so the beach wasn’t a priority for us. We first stopped at the Pine Tree trail which was the recommended lot 5. It was a .3 mile walk and didn’t satisfy our walking needs. We did see the beach to gaze at here but could not go on it. That was fine with us. The refuge trail was closed which I knew in advance. The Hellcat trail was also closed as it’s under construction. This I didn’t know. I looked on the website but never got a feel for what I was going to be able to see. I expected plenty of access points for walking. We spent time in and out of the car looking for walkways and small parking lots that were full. We found a spot in a lot that wasn’t the closest lot to the beach an decided to walk down to the beach to see the Sandy Point hot spot. We came across cars lined up waiting for parking spots to open up in the very small beach lot. Some wait 45 min to 2 hours idling in their cars hoping for someone to leave. The beach spots fill up early. If you get one you can enjoy a nice private spot on the beach. We took a quick look at the beach, didn’t see anywhere else to go and headed back to our car and out of the refuge. The road the refuge is on is a single, long, winding road that ends at the beach but there is no sidewalk. It turns into a gravel road well before arriving at the beach. Cars traveling on it create a bit of a dust up making it unpleasant for walkers and those riding bikes. I would turnaround before the road turns to gravel if walking or on a bike. Plan better than I did. Bird watchers and those looking to get on the beach early will appreciate this spot in the summer.

To enjoy this in the summer months you have to arrive early to get parking - by 9am probably. It is an unspoiled beach, nice views, rocks, sand, rock pools.Other inland side has marshes to explore and bird watching in all areas

What a great area at the end of Plum Island. walked along the beach for quite awhile. Very scenic and quiet at low tide. Saw egrets and many shells driftwood and sand dollars.
This are looks like the cape of the north without the sand dunes. With beautiful old Newburyport not many miles away.

I came for the Hellcat Interpretive Trail, which has a marsh loop and a dune loop. All quiet expect for the birds. This is a wonderful preserve in a rich ecosystem. Through the morning I encountered rare shorebirds, turtles, a beaver dam, and a nice local person who let me share her spotting scope at one of the observation blinds. This park also has plenty of beach (best to bike if that's where you're going; the parking lots fill up very quickly on nice days), and at least one wheelchair-accessible trail (the Pines Trail). A must for nature lovers visiting the area!

Located on the southern tip of plum island, the Parker river preserve is a great place to walk an unspoiled beach, fish for stripers and blues and observe birds of all sizes and shapes. The road into the reserve is fine for biking and walking, but be forewarned the last 4 miles are not paved, wider tired bikes are advised. Parking can be tight on weekend so arrive early. Bathrooms are available at the entrance and at the end of the road. Bring water, there's not a drop to be found. There's lots to keep the kids busy with warm water, gentle waves (. Most days ) and sea shells, sand dollars and tidal pools to keep them busy all day. It's truly a gem. Don't forget seniors ( over 55 ) can buy a lifetime pass for 10 bucks that admits a carful with the card holder. It's good at all national park entrances. Live long and get your money's worth!

The volunteer made sure we saw the short film on the different domains of the park and the birds and animals that inhabit each area. It was only 10 minutes in duration but kept your attention and an education, as well.
We have been on a different walk every time we go there. Best ever...

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a terrific place to go bird-watching, beach walking or kayaking. It's got a nice paved drive, and several short trails through the marsh. I was there in early December and even in the cold weather, it's a nice place to visit. This time of year, keep an eye out for Snowy Owls!

Multiple access points for the ocean and river for birding, hiking, biking, kayaking, and just enjoying nature. Changeable with the seasons. Each access point along the way provides something different.

We tried to visit on a Saturday - we weren't interested in the beach but wanted to check out the wildlife refuge and birdwatching. However, because the parking lot for the beach section was full, they were not allowing any cars to enter to drive through the park. We were told that we were welcome to walk 3.5 miles just to reach the start of the trail! I don't understand why there isn't a separate entrance point for the suntanners so those of us interested in the refuge can still enter? Highly disappointing.

Wonderful natural habitat for nature and humans! Besides access to the beach, there are trails through dunes and marshes along with lookouts and places to photograph birds, beautiful scenery and other 'creatures'.

If you come during the summer months, you will probably be frustrated by the tight crowd controls in place...but you will be incredibly grateful for those controls once you see what is being protected. This is a beautiful, unspoiled stretch of beach surrounded by tidal marshes. You can't find many places this untouched anymore.

I am at PRNWR every month of the year. It is a prime birding location on the east coast. The sourthern tip of the island is a State Reservation (swimming beach) and the north tip is residential. But the middle is all refuge. It is a great place to walk on the beach or walk the boardwalk on the marsh side. You'll always run into birders - no matter the weather. Dogs are not allowed but bikes, cars and walkers are welcome.

We had a most enjoyable day traveling through Parker river and stopping at the watch tower, and other designated ares for viewing the birds. Saw a wild turkey! it was wonderful on the marsh. It is very different terrain. We went to Sandy Point Beach too which was great fun. If you like beachcombing, it is a good place to go!

On a busy weekend, there was ample parking, rest room facilities and a walkway to the beach that made for easy walking. Away from the crowds of the more public beaches, it was a nice respite on a sunny afternoon. I was able to snag the $10 senior pass for entry at any national park for life!

This is a hidden gem... hidden in that this large park is right on the ocean but you have to know it is there - you won't likely just happen to drive by it. To locate, you need to drive through downtown Newburyport and out the east side, heading toward the ocean. The long barrier beach offers several white sand beaches for people looking to soak up the sun or get into the water. The back barrier salt marsh is a place to observe all kinds of water fowl. There is a guard shack at the northern end of the roadway where you can pay $5 per car (Summer 2015) for a day pass, or $20 for a Season Pass. With this pricing, if you are from the area, it is a true bargain. Some of the parking lots are closed periodically so that wildlife (seals, birds, etc.) can relax on the nearby beaches. If you have a bicycle or want to walk, there are pathways and back areas to explore. The lower half of the road through the refuge is not paved and can be a bit dusty during dry summer days but is easily passable in any vehicle. This is a great place to take a family trip, but you may want to take food with you when you go as there are no dining facilities inside the park, and other food options immediately outside the park are limited. My suggestion: stop in Newburyport center on your way through town and pick up a sandwich or two.

The Parker River National wild life sanctuary IS A VERY SPECIAL PLACE. With six miles of pristine beach, trails and lookouts one has the opportunity to site over 350speciaes of birds including Snowy Owls. They have excellent facilities where presentations are regularly mad such as the half day event about Snowy Owls earlier this year. in addition to birds, the refuge is home to a heard o f deer, beaver and other wildlife.

We spent every day walking in the Parker River Refuge. Great place to do birdwatching. The walking paths and new boardwalks are well marked and restrooms available at several locations.

I only had a short time here since I was traveling with my mom. Nonetheless, in a very brief walk from the parking lot at the end of the paved road, we saw over a dozen species of birds (for the record it was thirty minutes and about a 1/4 mile). This is a spectacular location for both spring and fall migration. The admission is $5 per car, and the signage claims that $4 stays right there. This area is easily accessible from anywhere in Northern coastal MA or Southeastern NH. Oh, and apparently they have lovely beaches, too!

My wife and i have gone many times. Always see something new in the way of birds. The beaches are always nice and quiet. We go to the end and picnic,and swim also. Water is refreshing and cool.Right on the ocean side. Never has it been crowded or even busy during the week.

A long stretch of beach on undeveloped land and excellent sunsets make this relaxing park an excellent place to pass quiet time with loved ones or get in touch with nature.

Beautiful place to walk through...like the photos show. Lots of bird viewing and marsh experiences. Blue Heron, Egrets and sometimes White Owls if you're lucky...Superb.

Dunes, marshes, good beaches, good fishing, wildlife and birding, a perfect southern New England unspoiled barrier island.

The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a place to visit almost the entire year.

In the summer, if you get there early enough to get your car in, you can walk the boardwalks to the beach and enjoy the sun and water.

In the spring and fall, the Hellcat Swamp Trail a few miles down the refuge road is a lovely place to walk. Part of the trail goes up over the dunes to the ocean side where there's a nice platform to view the ocean or look for birds. On the inside of Plum Island, the boardwalks take you over the marshes and into the woods. We've seen young deer and swans flying overhead during walks on the Swamp trail. The refuge is a great place to see birds.

At the very end of the Refuge road you cross into Ipswich and the parking lot of Sandy Point. Wonderful place at the mouth of the Ipswich River - at low tide big flat rocks appear out of the ocean to walk around and look into the tide pools.

If you are fortunate to be over age 60, you can purchase a national parks pass for $10 at the ranger station you pass when entering the refuge. It gets you in for free, along with national parks anywhere else in the U.S.

Great for walking and seeing the bird life. Go in the summer when it is warm. Spend at least a few hours there

A bit more developed than when we visited 30 years ago but lots of good sites and sightings here. We particularly the boardwalk area and driving through the refuge.

This beach has trails and parks where you can walk off of the beach and into the woodsy areas around the refuge. Great for birdwatching and accessing a piece of solitude and quiet! Beach is quiet in the mornings and big enough to escape people. Parking lots fill up very quickly and once they do, you cannot access the refuge.

We make a point of going here when we visit our daughter in Newburyport. Lovely vistas over the marsh and dunes. Lots of birds and wildlife. A beautiful place to walk and contemplate nature. Places to sit along the way. Newly updated walkways.

I first came here on a sunny Sunday afternoon in March and the Hellcat parking lot was full, so I continued on the unpaved road down toward Sandy Point and walked around down there. I returned early on a Thursday morning in April to catch sunrise at the beach and had the Hellcat boardwalk to myself. It was quiet and peaceful, the birds were out, and there were only a few other cars (although they were all serious birders and would frequently just stop in the middle of the road if they saw something, so be careful!) Definitely recommend an early morning visit over a mid-day visit, and it's a beautiful place to connect to nature.

Parker River NWR is a great opportunity to see a seaside wildlife refuge. This is an outstanding location for bird watching. Call ahead to make sure the beach side is open (it closes for piping plover nesting). Your National Parks Pass will get you in for free.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a great park located on Plum Island. it was nice seeing so many variety of birds there.

This Refuge is a gem. Miles of natural salt marsh that are virtually untouched and look much the way they must've appeared 300 years ago. Birds are everywhere and the road leading you in has plenty of pull outs where you can sit and watch birds for hours on end. There is one road in and out, but most of the year, traffic is light at best. Well worth the time to visit.

A family favorite. We have been here many times, year round. Most of the parking lots are closed July & August for the piping plovers. Beautiful spot for birding - I have personally seen a Snowy Owl, Great blue Heron, woodpecker, red winged blackbirds to name just a few - and I'm not an experienced birder. I've taken the tour twice - great information even for the longtime resident. A must for any nature lover.

Parking is the only issue here. But that's because it's so beautiful! Pay the fee with a smile on your face that they keep this,place so pristine. I avoid it in the summer because I've heard bad things about horseflies.

We walked every trail, and saw millions of migrating swallows all heading south. The lay of the land is great. Beautiful raised boardwalk trails over marsh and ocean terrain. It was the second week of August, and we had a fantastic time.

Drove to the Lighthouse and Plum Island beach. Walked along beach and over to next beach beautiful views. Then drove to the Hellcat Board walk. It is just where the paved road ends and dirt road begins There is a parking lot and well maintained boardwalk with many outlooks of ocean and Saltmarsh. It is well signed. Recommend it for all ages. Suggest you stop at Bobs Lobster Shack on way back to Newburyport

This really is a wonderful place to explore anytime of year. My favorite is the spring before the season gets busy. There is nice beaching, walking, biking, bird watching, relaxing...great for couples, kids, families, elderly, young people. No one will be disappointed here!

The Parker River Wildlife Refuge is beautiful any season of the year. But in the Fall, there are no crowds, plenty of parking and lots of wild life. There is easy access to the ocean from several parking lots and well maintained board walks. The sand is soft and pristine, and great for beach walks. If you go to the last parking lot, you can see Cranes Beach across the water. The sand and rock formations at the last parking lot are extremely interesting. Along the road, while you travel down then refuge is an extensive marshland, which has an array of birds and ducks. Beware, if you go during the month of July, there are lots of mosquitoes and green head flies. This is a beautiful place and I definitely recommend a visit while on the North Shore of Massachusetts. Please see my pictures for a view of the Parker River Wild life Refuge in October

This is a great refuge at any season. But don't plan on using it as an access to the beach during the breeding season for piping plovers. The beach access parking lots are all closed. Enjoy the birds and be sure to stop in the visitor center.

Beautiful, very easy trails and the birding here is fantastic!! In general and also especially for water fowl! Right past the entrance are several marsh ponds with pull-out parking as well as a small regular parking lot and some information signs about the usual birds and environment.

I did the Hellcat Boardwalk trail which is super easy at just over 1 mile long (more like 1.3 miles). The entire trail has well maintained Boardwalk and there are a couple of well marked road crossings. So it's very handicap accessible. But a word of caution in the colder weather - I was there very early and there was frost all over the Boardwalk - I have hiking shoes with crazy good grip so I didn’t have issues, but it was slick in places so be aware.

There are also numerous little "legs" of the Boardwalk that branch off and dead end into lovely viewing areas. I only had time to do the one that takes you out through the dunes and ends with a gorgeous view of the Atlantic!! Highly recommend it!

The birding was just phenomenal!! Saw so many species - Northern Harriers, Yellow Rumped Warbler, tons of Robins and Sparrows, Black Capped Chickadee, numerous species of water fowl, including a small group of Mute Swans that dramatically flew in at the end of my visit!

It's $5 to enter - but they accept various passes, including the national park pass. The toll booth wasn't open when I entered bc it's off season but it's on the honor system with pay station envelopes. There's a restroom stop right through the entrance and also at the Hellcat Boardwalk trailhead - super clean vault toilets!! I was surprised how clean they were!!

There are numerous trails all throughout this refuge. There's only one road in and out - and it's paved about half the way, then turns to some pretty bumpy dirt/gravel. I didn't have time to drive to the end - will have to save that for my next visit!

Such a lovely and relaxing spot! We got close-up views of finches, a red-winged blackbird, an egret, a turkey and orioles and saw ducks and swans at a distance. Many parking spots were blocked to minimize the impact on nesting birds.

You follow one road about six miles to the end (the river is on the right going in, with the ocean accessible by boardwalks on the left) and take the same road out. There are spots to walk to the beach or out towards the marsh, and some towers to climb for higher views.

On a weekday morning, we almost had the place to ourselves.

I visited here with family. We had an enjoyable walk along some trails and on a beach during a mild January afternoon. We saw a few birds. We also enjoyed seeing the patterns in the sand caused by the tide going out.

Always see something amazing! If you continue on farther down the road you can pay $5 and drive down the coast bird watching and then park and walk to the ocean.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a great spot for a leisurely walk any time of year. The beaches are beautiful but are not open for most of the summer unfortunately due to nesting plovers. Also beware of the last two weeks of July-the green heads are terrible and make sunbathing impossible!

The air here is so fresh I can't help but take deep breathes when I'm here. Pretty beaches, tons of birds, and lots of protected land and salt marshes. Sometimes we'll bring binoculars and just enjoy the many birds that are playing in the air and resting in the trees. Definitely worth a visit.

Since the boardwalk has been closed for repairs it was nice to be able to walk the dice which is normally closed.Some hawk activity, but just nice to have a different perspective.

Beautiful area to fish, birdwatch, or relax on the beautiful beaches. Only problem is that the majority of the parking areas and beaches are closed during july when the Plovers are nesting. Scenery alone is worth the trip.

A birder's paradise and a beautiful place to ride a bike! A great beach awaits those who drive out to the tip of the reserve.

Maudslay State Park lies on the west side of Newburyport and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge lies on the east side. The two are very different and each is beautiful in its own way. The PRNWR takes up the southern half of Plum Island - a barrier island. The outside faces open Atlantic Ocean and the inside faces calm salt marsh and the Plum Island Sound. The southern tip faces Crane Beach in Ipswich. The water is cold so a wet suit is a good idea if you're planning on swimming, surfing or kayaking. Wading calf deep is enough to cool you off even on a 95 degree day!

It is a National Wildlife Refuge and so the animals take first priority and the birds are the stars of the show here, with the lead role played by the endangered Piping Plover. These birds are endangered and nest on the beach, so much of the beach is closed for much of the season to protect their reproduction. If you can be a little bit flexible, though, there is still always a nice time to be had here if you love nature. I wouldn't call it a hiking area, but there are some little nature trails for you to stretch your legs on, and it's a great place to photograph birds, do a little beachcombing or surf fishing. A fair number of cyclists ride the reservation road as well, which turns to packed gravel about halfway down - it's not too bad, but you're better off with something meatier than a skinny road racing wheel/tire on that stretch. Especially if you go at off-hours or off-season it's very peaceful and beautiful here.

Parker National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful park to visit. The visitor center is staffed with knowledgeable volunteers who will answer questions, make recommendations and explain the flora and fauna of the park. They are a wonderful resource so be certain to stop in and talk with them; you will get so much more out of your visit. There are beautiful beaches with limited access and parking during plover nesting season. There are nice walking trails and observation towers in the marsh with plenty of photo opportunities. Roads within the park make getting around easy. Birds abound and as we went mid week the park was not too busy. One word of caution: beware greenhead fly season-July - Sept.: they are very aggressive and have a nasty bite.

There was a family fiesta event on the weekend we went. There is no entrance fee charged that day but there was a long queue of cars entering the refuge. However, the crowd was heading for the beach, so we drove further in towards the dike. There were no crowds in that area. Pleasant walk to the dike. Saw many shore birds. Too bad we arrived late morning and it was already hot. I believe if we were there much earlier, we would be able to see even more species of birds.

most of the time the entire Wildlife refuge beaches are closed. A shame because of the great expense of taxpayers money that was spent of 10 or more wooden walkways built for people to enjoy the beach. This is insane behavior when 6 miles of beach is closed because of a few birds nesting. Other places along the coast protect the endangered areas and allow people to enjoy the beaches. In my opinion nature is a survival life. Birds and eggs are destroyed by other animals. Very few, if any are destroyed by human beings. You can travel through the wildlife refuge and go to the beaches on the end of the refuse that belong to the state. It is next to impossible to get a parking spot unless you are there around 8 a m on a good sunny day.

I've been visiting this place all my life. It's a treasure. So glad this slice of nature has been preserved.

We came here to do a small hike while passing through the area. The trail was very muddy and so we decided to turn back. But we could view quite a bit of the marsh by walking along the road. The scenery is basically flat land with ponds/streams throughout and very few trees. All in all, unless you are interested in viewing birds and have binoculars, not sure it is worth the trip. But I suppose it is something different to see.

Great beaches feel remote. Two issues (1) Green Heads in the last two weeks of July first two weeks in August can be unbearable. (2) They close the majority of the beaches because of the piping plover. Call ahead to check these things out. Otherwise they are beautiful and clean sandy beaches. If you have small children beware there are no lifeguards and there is a strong undertow.

The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge offers stunning views of salt marshes and open ocean. It is a birders' mecca.

We spent a lovely morning driving from stop to stop to enjoy the winter birding along the Parker River. It was chilly and windy, but really lovely in the Winter Sun.

And well worth $5. There are beaches, there are trails, and many many birds. We didn't make it even close to everything and were there for 2 hours.

Palm Island, an unexciting small habitat, Parker River National Wild Life Refuge - Another story, explore the long winding, light to steep sloping boardwalks through the woods and to beach, climb steps up and down the boardwalks, occasional glimpses of some local birds: Very invigorating! Unexpected that it was!! Number of small and big parking lots at boardwalk points.
All that with only $ 5 entrance fee!

If you like beaches and birding and nature, this is the place to be and be seen. About a mile or more before you reach the entrance to the park, there is a visiting center. There you will learn about how this refuge came about and what it has to offer. The volunteer staff is very helpful and courteous, too! Plum Island, Parker River Wildlife Refuge offers both young and old a true nature experience.

It's a great way to get outside and see the marsh. The walk is easy and has great views, especially around sunset

Great short trail, but half of Hellcat trail (the marsh section) was closed due to deteriorating boardwalk.. However, the Dune Trail had awesome views, but some of the numbered panels to use with the guide were missing. Get ready to use your arm muscles if you go there with a stroller!

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is by far one of my very favorite nature places. I've been coming here for many years. At best I now get here once a year, as I live in Maine, with no car. I made a recent visit while visiting my family in the area. The preserve is a wildlife sanctuary where one can find many bird species, both indigenous and migrating, including water foul and raptors. It is also not unusual to see fox, white-tailed deer, wild hare, seals and many other species of mammal. The refuge is ranger-monitored and managed and tends to keep out the typical beach-goer in favor of those who are there to appreciate the solitude, quiet and simplicity of nature. The refuge offers 6.5 miles of unspoiled beach abutting dunes, the Parker River wetlands and inner marshes within the towns of Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley and Ipswich. Therefore, the landscape and environment are varied and abundant. Often, the endangered piping plovers are nesting, so many areas of the preserve can be off-limits to foot traffic. On some occasions there have been swarms of swallows, filling the air, diving and soaring often low to the ground in an insect-feeding frenzy.

The preserve has seven parking lots, most with beach access. Other lots are on the marsh side, offering wildlife viewing stations, and bird towers, most with well-maintained boardwalks. There are restrooms located at the start, middle and end of the preserve.... which also leads into the adjoining Sandy Point Reservation, at the south end of the long peninsula, in Ipswich. The preserve is only paved about half way in. From there it is dirt/gravel road. Because the preserve closes at dusk, and has an entrance fee and room for only so many vehicles, access is restricted when vehicle lots are full, and after dark. Four-wheel drive vehicles, with permits, are (unfortunately) allowed on the beach, bringing their pollution and beer-drinking fisherpersons to the land. While the preserve generally is clean of trash, it is still seen in some spots.... because humans manage to ruin nature wherever we go. If you don't want to drive it, or don't have a car, the refuge is accessible also by foot or bicycle.

On this particular visit I spotted a seal off the beach, a lone deer crossing the dirt road, many bird species including Canada Geese and white cranes. I took a short walk on the far end of the beach and climbed the bird tower near lot # 6 as the sun set to the west. Sunrise and sunset times are posted at the main gate, as are the tides. The gate was not staffed on this visit. There is a drop box for the entrance fee, and camera observing who pays and who doesn't. For a measly $5.00 the entrance fee was well worth it, and the funds go toward preserving the park and other associated costs.

I love Parker River Wildlife Reservation, and plan to return again and again.

There are many boardwalk trails that take you directly into close observation of nesting birds and signs of other wildlife abound. Once you are in there, you lose a sense of contact with the crazy world of stress and busy schedules, to breathe in deeply and have your eyes feast on nature in the raw. I try to get out there every so often to shake off the craziness of everyday life.

It was right after Christmas so probably more children but was a lovely serene place to appreciate nature!

Great place for bird watchers! There were a lot of people there today on a nice fall day but still a very pleasant experience. There are new boardwalks which make walking very easy for all abilities. Access to quiet and scarcely populated beaches is a plus.

We were checking out Plum Island area and stumbled upon the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. This is a very pleasant and very easy walk. Nothing strenuous, but beautiful to behold.

Either early morning or after summer, and you have lots of space to move around and just enjoy some wild areas. If you go during the summer, you will have lots of friends.

Great place to go birding...

This place is not far alway from Boston. But the beach is very nice, which is comparable to Cape Cod. And there are many birds on the right side. You may find snowy owl there on winter.

They charge 5 dollars per car, but leave a partial of unpaved road. You may have to walk a while to arrive the beach, which is difficult to use baby stroller.

Never disappoints. The natural beauty is always stunning and the fact that the park ensures that the nesting birds are not disturbed during certain times of the year is fantastic!

great spot for walking sightseeing birding or beaching, love this place never know what you will see at sunrise, sunset or in between

My wife and I went to the beach for a two day get away. We arrived early both days and got parking easy. However, by 10am parking was a problem for other visitors. Only a small beach was open on the refuge because of some birds breading. It made for amazing bird watching. We brought in our bikes and had a fantastic 9 mile bike ride (up an back) down the road on plum island. It took about an hour and was well worth the time away from the beach. The beach itself was clean, quiet, and not too overly crowded. It cost $5 to drive in.

All and all it was our ideal outing to get beach. Highly recommend.

went here for stroll on the trails, trails where easy to follow, there are plenty of different spots to pull over and look for wildlife. The day we went there where several wild turkeys along the road with little baby turkeys following close by. Plenty of birds, nice marsh area. great views and quite. there is a fee here to get in not sure how much as we used the national park pass to enter.

I've wanted to see this National Wildlife Refuge for years. It was more beautiful than I expected. You are able to drive and then park and walk through beautiful walkways.
We then parked to walk the beach area. It is like taking a vacation so close to home. It won't be years before we go again. A treasure for sure.

Captain John Smith, in his fanciful 1616 map of the area he named New England, took note of this area north of "Cape Anna" (Cape Ann) and described it as "excellent habitation." Fortunately, it still is for a myriad of birds on the Eastern Seaboard's lane of the North American Flyways. Warblers, hawks, sandpipers, owls, egrets, ducks, etc. -- this is still their empire, centuries after the passing of the one that John Smith knew. The visitor center, with its friendly and knowledgeable staff, is a great place to stock up on information and inspiration before venturing eastward to the vast sands and marshlands of the still wild and ever-charming Plum Island and environs.

Great way to spend a few hours outside! Highly recommend!- good for families, couples or individuals. Bring suntan lotion!

Did not seem overcrowded. Lots of beach and nice walkways. Nicely maintained. Lots of parking, and dogs are permitted in the evening.

Went on a mild February day (50 degrees) no snow. By lot 2 saw a bald eagle sitting on a tree. Many Hawks and ducks. But the elusive snowy owl was hiding. If you stay till 3 pm other owls prowl the marshes. We went on a Tuesday so less crowded. There are restrooms by hellcat dike and other spots. Don't forget to go over the dunes to the beach

$5 to get into the park. Absolutely beautiful beaches but call ahead as this is a refuge and the beaches will close when the birds are nesting. Observation towers on the property. After about the 3rd mile it does turn into a gravel/dirt road. Walking trails and just absolutely gorgeous views all around. Bathrooms are scattered thru the reserve.

Take a hike. Lots of wildlife and scenic views. Boardwalks or trails are easy and safe. Drive out to the point too, beautiful and natural beaches and marsh.

I love this place and have been several times. I recommend the walk among the dunes on the left side about halfway into the park. The beaches are great, too.

Took and afternoon walk through some of the trails in the park. It was just a few days after a big storm, but there had been plenty of foot traffic so the trails were pretty well packed. Might want to bring your gaiters or tall boots though. Lots of bird watchers and by the time we left it had gotten quite busy! Worth the trip for the scenery.

This is one of our favorite beaches/park in all of New England. Very limited parking keeps the crowds away. We drove past the first beach to the second parking area-which probably held less than 30 cars. I love a beach that I don't have to listen to the other patrons-and this is the place. Make sure you get here very early to insure a parking spot.

I love this place in all seasons of the year. Wonderful for birders and people enjoying the beach. Very peaceful. Be prepared to walk around for best access. Stop at wildlife center for informative displays on wildlife.

If you are looking to see birds of prey thi is the place.The road is about 9 miles long. One side is marshland the other is the ocean. The ocean side has boardwalks to the ocean. At the end is Sandy Beach. Numerous Snowy Owls, Short Eared Owls, Bald Eagles, Hawks & lots of Water fowl. Trails to walk along the Marsh. Just a beautiful place. Entrance fee $5 for the day. No animals allowed.

If you love nature, this is where you want to be! The walk ways are alot of fun In the spring and summer we go to see the new life and vegitation. Some times you have to check because areas may be off limits because of mating season. You can see the deer paths and watch the herrons! April thru winter to can see the snowy owls, they are awesome!!! The Parker River Wildlife Refuse Museum on the left before you enter (1 mileish) before you enter the refuge. Sometimes in Jan-feb they'll have a show. Limited seating. The curator for the State's wild life, will go to Logan Airport and catch and SNOWY OWL with a wing span of 6 plus feet to the snow, teach you all about them, and their habits and then release them, with you , on the Refuse. It's absolutly amazing! Great stuff for the winter. This is truly one of my favorite places to visit. I've gone there every year, many times a year, because it changes. Thank God the good people that protect this gift are awesome! I believe there is a slight charge to visit this gift. If you live in MA you can get a pass if you're over , I think 65, you can get a lifetime pass. This is some place yo want to visit in your lifetime. Remember, TAKE OUT WHAT YOU TAKE IN!!!

Unspoiled natural preserve.
Drive all the way to the end to the state beach. Panoramic views.
No services so bring umbrella and picnic lunch.

If you have never seen salt marshes this is the place to come. Beautiful, stunning scenery and wildlife abound. I live in the area and we have been coming here for years. Always something new to see.

Parker river is a very popular birding site in Massachusetts with its many different habitats. Great for snowy owls in the winter, large numbers of species of shore birds through the late summer and fall, and many migratory birds in the spring. There are also beautiful beaches, and there are trails that take you through the marshes and the sand dunes. The refuge is also near Newburyport with its restaurants and shopping.

Doesn't matter what time of year, this refuge is well worth visiting. You can drive a car, walk, ride a bike to various parts of the refuge. The long long long beach is dramatic. But don't forget 'the opposite side' of the refuge from the beach and lot #4. Nice walk out through a marsh with a fire observation tower to climb for a special view.

We visited on a weekend and expected congestion and traffic but, although it was busy, traveling along the dirt roads through the park was pleasant. At this time of year you must beware the greenhead flies (horse flies) - - they are nasty, aggressive and deliver a painful bite. We climbed the observation platforms for great viewing opportunities, the beaches are wonderful though some of the areas were closed to protect nesting plovers. Picnics could be ruined by the flies but if there is a breeze, at least at the beach they're not too bad.
The visitors center is a great source of information. The volunteer on duty while we were there has a wealth of local knowledge and shared it willingly. We were amazed that he was not a professional park ranger or a paid employee as his comfort with the area, understanding of the flora and fauna and generally friendly demeanor indicated otherwise. As a volunteer he showed a remarkable ability to engage the visitors and we really appreciated his expertise. He made the day extra special. Thank you!! This is a great park and if you have The National Park Pass you get in for free ! Awesome day.

Loved walking the beach trails to see the gorgeous views of the beach.
Be sure to drive all the way to the end as there are lots of different trails.

This is a must-see if you enjoy the outdoors, wildlife, the beach, etc. Suggest arriving early, as they only let so many people in at a time. Unless you hike or bike in. It's about six miles to the end at Sandy Beach (which is not part of the refuge), the last two-plus miles being gravel road. But there's great bird watching in the salt marshes along the way, and since they don't let a lot of people in, the beach isn't crowded and noisy!

Two notes - most of the beach is closed off during July-ish due to the protected piping plover birds that are nesting there. And whenever you go, you need to be aware of the green head bugs, especially when you're near vegetation. They have a mean bite! Out on the open beach, we had not problem but you should be prepared for them!

Seven miles of federally protected beach front. Strong tides require strong swimmers.
Good parking and facilities at the beaches nearest the entry point.
Great place to visit in the Fall - great birdwatching and plentiful wildlife.
You can also kayak on the Parker River and there are put ins at the Refuge. The river is tidal however so watch the tide charts.

If you drive all the way to the end of the refuge, you will come to a State park, Sandy Point. Great spot for young children - warm tidal pools and great shelling.

This is the southern part of Plum Island reached by a causeway from Newburyport. The refugee is a Federal property, and there is an entrance fee. It is several miles along a paved road from the entrance to the tip of the island. It is a popular bird watching place, and there are miles of beautiful beach. Parking is quite limited with the one lot filling quickly during the summer. So you will never have to worry about crowds. Quite the contrary, you may feel like you are all alone. Waves on the ocean side can get very rough and there are no lifeguards. So take care swimming.

We have visited many times. Great for bird watching and photography. The greenhead flies die off around mid-August, but as long as you wear bug spray they are manageable.

We visited Parker River NWR mid July a few years ago before they closed the beaches for the Piping Plover nesting season. This beach was nearly deserted making you feel like a castaway. The water was clean and clear, the sand beautiful. We kept to the waters' edge as the tide went out, wading and swimming with only the occasional other swimmers visible. There is an excellent tide pool that forms, and we and our children delighted in finding and watching all kinds of sea life! From baby crabs, to sea urchins, tiny shrimp, clams and small fish my kids got the experience and education of a lifetime. The only drawback to the area (besides nearly no services at the southern end of the refuge which we didn't mind) were the horse flies. Devilish beasts for sure - stay right in the water to keep them at bay! A very small price to pay for an incredible experience.

Great place to go for a hike, to the beach or to go fishing for the day. There are dunes, salt water marshes, a nice beach & good fishing. Also if you like wildlife and bird watching it is a great place to visit.

We go all Summer, at least once a week, to the beaches and enjoy every minute. The beaches are natural so there's stuff in the sand, but that's nature. The ocean views are great and the sound of the waves and birds top it off.

This very large wildlife refuge is a terrific location to photograph birds of all kinds. It is also a sanctuary, and it seems that the birds know this, as the site is teeming with different species of birds. Will certainly visit again before the end of my vacation.

I grew up on the North Shore and it wasn't until several years ago that a friend introduced me to the magic that is Plum Island. As a child we would go to Crane Beach which is always packed with ridiculous parking rates, and while parking may be cheaper at closer beaches, again there are the crowds or impossible parking. Plum Island is a 40 minute drive up Rt 1N from Lynnfield, and while the Parker River Wildlife Refuge itself has no food services, there are nice bathrooms. And there's a nearby rotary with a Subway we will sometimes stop at, or Bob Lobster on the PI turnpike with reasonably priced seafood you can have packed up to take to the beach as well. Entrance to the refuge is $5 per car, and $3 per walker/biker. But we get an annual membership for $20 which is unlimited access, well worth it if you frequent the area as we do (about once per week). The beaches are not large, as it is a refuge, so some areas are blocked off. But again, the attendance is so low that there's never any fear of sitting on top of someone else. The sands are clean, soft, the water is Atlantic water so obviously chilly. The currents can be stronger before storms, but otherwise level swimming area for children. About 6 miles past the first beach/bathroom stop is Sandy Point, which you either need to go VERY early, or late afternoon about 4pm, which is what we do, to get a parking spot. Also the drive down to Sandy Point is half gravel so if you don't want to dust up your car then don't bother. Sandy Point is fun if you like to look for fun rocks and shells. The refuge is also known for birds/wildlife, but sadly we're not interested in that, just the beaches! Right now June/July the green heads have taken over, and if you've ever been bit by one you know how painful it is. They swarm you, and the only way to avoid them is by staying in the water or a ton of DEET. So we will be taking a hiatus for a couple weeks until they are gone, hopefully by beginning of August.

We visited Parker River the first week of May and were just amazed by the spring warbler migration. I have never seen so many different varieties, en masse in one place. It was truly spectacular. Don't forget there's also salt marshes, sand dunes, and the sea shore, so one could never get bored. This visit will always be a treasured memory.

We don’t go often, but this is a special place and worthy of many visits at any time of the year. Nature and the seasons dictate what you can explore;
but, it doesn’t matter. Each time of year has its highlights. Bring binoculars and a camera. No matter which direction you look: each vista is stunning!

The woman at the Wildlife Center on Sunday morning at 9 am could not have been nicer, or more thorough in her advice to us and the orientation she gave us to the refuge.

The Parker River wild life is a wonderful place for everyone including children. There are many activities available throughout the year one can rent kayak in town and take them down the river into the marsh one just have to plan the tide schedule.
Also there are bird watching excursions there is a an autobahn society with many educational courses for the children as well as Raptors on some weekends in the spring. The beaches are wonderful. There is a fee to go in and the water is a bit rough though one must be careful with "little people" the other drawback is during July we have green heads which is a biting bug. During the late spring some of the beach is closed because of the piping plover season but it is still plenty of parking and it is certainly worth the drive. a magnificent place of nature beauty and calm. Patty King from Newburyport

This area is an exceptional place to visit at almost any time of year, don't try and bring your dog but do bring your curiosity, there are surprises around every corner and the boardwalks across the reeds gives you chances of seeing a wide variety of wildlife at each turn.

Through the spring and summer- plan on getting there early! Parts of the refuge are closed when birds are nesting. Be sure to bring your binoculars. Nice walking trails and great beaches!

I cycled here whilst staying on Plum Island.
It was beautiful and plenty of bird hides - or blinds. Amazing access to the beach too though this is not possible April to mid August whilst the piping plovers are nesting. Saw lots of birds but very few people. Perfect!

Parker River Refuge is a spectacular place to walk for miles. You’ll see so many types of birds, find shells and maybe see a seal. In the winter the Snowy Owl are often seen.

A friend and I packed a picnic lunch and our binoculars and set off for a day's adventure on Plum Island, arriving there in the late morning. A Senior Pass to the National Parks was accepted for admission. We have been here before, but didn't do as thorough a job of exploration as we did on this visit. Although we missed it when we entered the Refuge itself, there was a Snowy Owl sitting atop a utility pole just outside the admission gate. At one of our early stops to view water birds, we heard about the owl from other birdwatchers. We turned around and went back to view this bird. And there it was, high atop its perch, greeting those who passed, mostly unnoticed by the folks in their cars. We learned that it had been there all morning. Apparently there were many Snowy Owls seen in the Refuge during this past winter. After reentering the Refuge, we continued on and viewed 26 bird species. A short walk on a path which is accessible to wheelchairs led us to an overlook where we viewed an osprey building a nest. We picnicked at the far end of the Refuge, before turning back. On the way back we walked the Hellcat Interpretive Trail. Beach access was closed because of nesting plovers. Rest rooms are available at intervals along the way. The speed limit is 25 mph. Along the way there were plenty of walkers and folks riding their bicycles. All in all, a wonderful place to visit!

1st day in the refuge we saw a huge eagle and many other shore birds. We kayaked the river trail and had fun riding the incoming tide.

Make sure you get there early...even in February due to limited parking spaces. Also you can't ride bikes on the beach. Kind of disappointing because I would love to do that in the off season...and don't forget to leave your pet at home.

This is a great place to go if you love the outdoors and do not mind walking a bit. Lots of boardwalk trails to walk for amazing wild life and plants to look at. It also has one of the best beaches I have ever seen in Massachusetts nice and sandy and also has nice waves. Would highly recommend this place but plan on spending several hours there to be able to enjoy the entire park.

Go early because the parking lot fills up fast. Great place to ride a bike and do some birdwatching or just walk on the beach. Don't forget to stop at Lobsta Bob's on your way back home for a tasty lobster roll made fresh. Stop in the Refuge gift store at headquarters for unique gifts and look at the exhibits.

Walden on the North Shore......drive all the way down to see the state beach which is open to the public.....a wonderful safari of owls, deer, plovers, rabbits, hawks, swans and many more precious species.

We have walked this stunning boardwalk many times. It is a bird watchers mecca - you will see many photographers here - often from other countries - hoping to catch sight of a special bird. Once a giant deer came thundering across the marsh and disappeared into the shallow woods.
There is a lot of walking and in some sections...stairs. Best to go off season!
Enjoy!

Plum Island as it is known by locals is a prime spot for birding and enjoying the unspoiled habitat. Go in the Spring and you will witness the migration of kinglets, plovers (from a safe distance), finches, waxwings and sea birds of many varieties. Keep your eyes open for wild turkeys walking along the main road. Or, just go to for the peace and quiet!

We've stopped at this Park for a fast visit, but we didn't (unfortunately) visit the real area where the birds are living.

The main house has a point center for visitors, and providing a few info (where to go on the park) and some telescopes that are fixed and pointing to a feeding area, in front of the house.
In this way is possible to try to identify the birds - and other little animals - present.

My son has loved this place very much.

Unfortunately we didn't have so much time, but spend time here should be really great!

Such a serene and naturally beautiful place to visit for walk. Take in the picturesque views and have yourself a walk through tree covered path. Spent the afternoon here with my teen walking and talking and enjoying the sights.

This is one of our favorite places to go year-round: the Atlantic on one side and marsh on the other; bird life, trails, and beaches all in a well-maintained wildlife refuge.

If you want to experience unspoiled ocean beauty with no civilization in sight, this is the place to be, even in the off season. You'll feel like you must have traveled far and wide to get here but it's LOCAL!

Wish that I lived closer! I would be here daily and year round. Kudos for the efforts by the National Parks for maintaining and keeping this refuge in the shape that they do. It is a wonderful place for wildlife and humans alike. Great photographic opportunities!

We LOVED the beach there .. so many different sealife , shells ,glass.... so fun! The rangers were very helpful and informative.. LOVED the marshes and hiking trails... Wonderful place to explore...

The Visitors Center is worth a visit. Neat exhibits and an excellent 12 minute video. Plus the volunteer was very informative as to how to approach Plum Island. Note that the beaches are closed to protect the nesting Piping Plovers.

Pristine beach, salt marsh, surf and bird watching. If you are in the area, it is a great place to visit.

But beware, much of the area is closed during the breeding season for the Plovers an endangered bird species.

We had a great time visiting Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. This place is huge. There are 7 different parking areas giving you access to either beach front areas or marsh areas. We visited 4 of them. The hellcat area has some fun boardwalk trails that are definitely a must visit. We also went all the way to the end and had a great time looking through the tidal pools. Definitely worth a visit if you are headed to plum island!

Beautiful wildlife sanctuary with the ability to explore marshes and enjoy the ocean. The ocean is very rough so I would not recommend for small children or children who are not very strong swimmers. This is a great beach for strolling.

Beautiful location with great combination of beach and salt marsh environments. The bird watching is a huge draw.mi have seen cranes, herons, egrets, and snowy owls and more. Good locations to pull off and get out of the car or off the bike and explore. Most of the Beach areas can be closed off in mid summer for plover nesting,so plan accordingly. There are scattered facilities, so good for families. Even in busy times, there is plenty of off the path locations to find a quiet spot. Sunsets up at the state beach are beautiful. Also good beaches for gathering shells and other sand treasures.

After driving 1.5 hours to get here, the rangers said no dogs allowed. Couple other groups with dogs are also not allowed to get in. It ends up dogs are playing together not far from the entrance, which is not too bad. But I had long drive, why don't I just go to a dog park.

Long and secluded beaches are at the end of miles of quiet road where bird watches abound. Take the road to the end and you will find some of the most scenic North Shore waterfront.

The refuge is managed by the Park Service and there is a fee for entry.

When the kids are back in school and the weather is still beautiful Sandy Point is one of the most peaceful serene spots in NewEngland. On a clear day you can see Rockport to the sour and Maine to the North!

6+ miles of beach is largely reserved for birds from April to early August- leaving just 2 miles for humans all year. Plenty. It's wonderful to walk or bike the roads, or drive along and stop for bird watching at the Salt Pannes. About mile 4 there is a wonderful dune walk and marsh walk. And there's a observatory tower to see the FlyWay. In the late summer and fall the huge open beach is breath taking. Amazing for long walks. The last 2 miles of road are unpaved but worth the trip as it culminates in a State Park Beach with 240 degree ocean views over to Ipswich Bay and the Crane Estate and all the way to Gloucester in one direction and Maine in the other. I've been visiting during every month of the year and it's always beautiful.

Visit Parker River National Wildlife Refuge often during the Fall, Winter & Spring to view the migrating birds.
The refuge headquarters offers many free programs geared to all ages
I am a member of their photographic society - refuge runs photo camp for kids during the summer. Photographic Society meets monthly with guest speakers as well as photography instructors.
I stay away much of the summer as much of the beach is closed due to the nesting Plovers

This is a beautiful place with lots of birds to see.

We went for a walk and saw for the first time wild turkeys on the salt marsh!

We were staying by the marshes - it was incredibly relaxing and well worth the visit

We drove down through, you can hear the birds. We didn't go onto the paths, but some were closed. If you park in parking lot, you can walk to the beach. People fishing, swimming, playing games. Nice area. Its 5.00 a car ( more for a bus). Bathrooms are clean. Nice little area.

Plum Island beach. Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. Can you sprinkle me here when I'm done with this life please? Sandy Point, High Sandy, The Hellcat Trails...yup...it's heaven on Earth. It's not Disney World, it's the beach...in it's rawest form. Watch for seals, watch for whales. Breeding ground of the ancient horshe-shoe crab and many migratory birds. Don't miss a day here, OH but don't forget your bug spray (and I mean the GOOD STUFF). Greenies will carry small children away (kidding, but close). Yes I am biased, having grown up on the island, but I've ben back a couple of times as an adult and it still puts tears in my eyes.

Nice walk through the marsh and wooded areas. Bring along your camera for some nice photo opportunities.

Very nice place with beaches and march lands. You pay $5 to enter. They give you a map showing you a road to drive down and different entrances to different sections of the beach. Some have parking, Some dont. The map tells you which ones do. At the end of the road there is and observatory tower that is nice to walk up and look around at the march lands.

The ladies and I went for a fun bike ride through this area, grant it the weather was perfect for it but it was so beautiful there. If you like to be in a peaceful setting that is what we found there.

Great area for viewing shore birds. Nice beaches too. It was a cool and cloudy day which was perfect for exploring and bird watching.

This has miles and miles of low land nature. Great for family, couples and anyone who needs to chill.
Great beaches and nature walks
Great for proposing to your future wife as I did on 1/11

We have visited the refuge for the past four years during the spring warbler migration and it is a most rewarding experience. Each year we get a bit more proficient in identifying the different species and it is very enjoyable. It's also a great place to meet fellow birders and to swap stories. A big thank you to all of the dedicated people who take their time to make the refuge a safe place for our feathered and furry friends.

Your National Park pass can be used here. A very nice quiet visitor center. There is a video and displays. Then there is the actual refuge with a number of boardwalks/trails. They are beautiful! One of our group had ambulation challenges and it was a little difficult getting advice about which boardwalks might be most appropriate. While much of the beach is closed because of nesting birds, the beach at the state park at the end of the refuge is open and a few hearty individuals braved the cold water.

Went on the marsh and dune hikes. (Hike is an exaggeration, more like strolls in the woods). Saw many birds and birders. There are steps, so not OK for strollers or wheelchairs.

We went kayaking here for a couple of hours. We tipped in at the bridge and just spent some time paddling through the marshes. It was very quiet & peaceful, and very clean. We appreciate birds but aren't well-versed with species - all I know is we saw quite a variety of beautiful birds. You really have to be aware of the tides (it was very difficult getting the boats out of the water because tide was down a few feet when we wrapped up). The current on the river is pretty fast near the bridge when the tide is going out - this could be pretty dangerous for children or inexperienced paddlers. I

The birds were flying, the sky’s were so beautiful and blue. The park was so beautiful. I look forward to bringing my grandmother. Everyone should visit! And don’t listen to the snarky comments about the beaches being closed. YES they are.... and yes they are beautiful, but remember birds were here with migrant instincts before us.

It's just plain beautiful. the light is special and ever changing. The birds are plentiful. There's marsh, there's beach, there's river. And there's 8 miles of it.

If you like to bird watch, this is a great place to go. We have seen Snowy Owls, Eagles, Falcons and a lot of others. Even in the winter it's a great place to explore. Bring your camera.... we have even seen seals resting on the beach and the sides of the road.

Took advantage of the record warmth of late February to check out the beaches and birdlife on Plum Island. Started by driving down to the Sandy River parking lot at the end and was amazed to find the beach wider than we had ever seen. Low tide also made it possible to look at the many seashells (mostly clam shells and cats eyes, but some smaller interesting ones, too) strewn across the beach. Saw big flock of eiders, couple of scoters and a pair of long tailed ducks. Driving back out, we spied our first rough-legged hawk coursing over the marsh. Beautiful day!

Whether a birder or not, this is a beautiful place to visit. We did walk the Hellcat trail, which is perfect if you have walking issues. Even in December, the marsh views are spectacular! It would be a good to experience in every season as the colors are always changing
We will come back.

A great hike and nice boardwalks by the ocean. Such pretty scenery and wild life all around. Definitely worth the hike and your time.

Get the season pass! Only $20 and you can come and go all season! Wonderful place to explore and be with nature.

I truly love this beach. It is very peaceful and does not get overcrowded. The greenhead season makes it impossible to go for several weeks. The only real issue I have is that because of the piping plover, most of the beach is restricted for most of the summer. I am all for preserving wildlife but it does not seem to be making great strides in increasing the plover numbers.

Despite this, I will still renew my membership and enjoy whatever time we can get here!

The completely wheelchair accessible Hellcat Trail is awesome. It is about 1 mile long, with views to the bay side and then to the ocean. The parking was easy on a fall weekend. Along with my wheelchair, we had two small kids on scooters.
There is an accessible toilet at the parking lot.
It is so nice to have a wheelchair accessible trail that is longer than 1/4 mile ( so many parks proudly talk about their accessible paths which are way too often less than half a mile long).

Great spot to see shorebirds, get a little exercise, and breathe the fresh salt air! Many places to explore along the single dead-end road. It turns to gravel partway down and that can be dusty especially with the windows down. Saw and got pics of a red-tail hawk, egrets, and lots of shorebirds. We went mid-week and it was not crowded.

Located along the Plumb Island Inlet near Newburyport, Mass, the Wildlife Refuge is a vast expanse of marshes that supports migratory birds. When you enter be sure to stop at the Visitor's Center for a good overview. The displays give information on the various birds that transit the park, staff members gladly answer questions and recommend activities based on your interests. There are several boardwalks, paths, and observation towers for your use along with assess to mines of beach. This is a photographers dream and with a little patience and a good lens you can get some beautiful pictures. Even during non-migration seasons you can get good pictures, such as a big turkey strolling along the road. At $5 a car load it can't be beat!

The possibilities are endless. My wife and I spent two days at the beach and in a row boat moving slowly through the marshes. You can bike, canoe, sit on one of America's most well preserved, natural beaches. Bird watching is very popular. At the end of the day you can go to a restaurant on Plumb Island or downtown Newburyport. Newburyport is one of New England's antique architectural treasures.

Come to Plum Island's Parker River NWR during winter & you will be amazed by the arctic visitors that causes traffic jams over here. The beautiful hunting machines will provide some magic moments & if you are an early bird you will be rewarded with those moments first hand.

During spring/summer this turns into a place for ospreys & plovers & marshland warblers.

As with any place for wildlife, patience is key here & if you are willing to spend time you shall be rewarded.

Had a chance to do a nice kayak paddle through the marsh. It was close to full moon high tide so we were up real high in the channel and could see out over the marsh most of the time. Near perfect weather.

Was visiting the area with a friend and she had heard about this place. So we drove out, paid our entrance fee and proceeded to spend a few hours exploring. We really liked walking the beach at the very end of the road. Very nice, scenic, and quiet. We saw wild turkeys along the road as well.
Definitely worth going out of your way to spend a few hours or all day to visit.

great place to walk with few others; large beach; easy parking; saw plovers and a peregrine falcon; earlier in the day would have found more birds

I visit multiple times a year and always see something new. Beautiful vistas, short trails, exciting wildlife.

This beautiful refuge is almost unspoiled because it is well taken care of and protected year around. It’s a great place for natural walks and just enjoying the outdoors.

Bleak and gorgeous flat-land of Plum Island, with ponds and trees and egrets and endless wide-angled views. We drove it both ways in the car: just a half hour, but memorable.

If you are a birder you can't help but to be impressed, but for those of us who just want to be out walking in nature, this area can be irritating. Due to the Piping Plover nesting, almost all of the beach is closed from June - mid August (yet Plovers have been found nesting in very crowded beach areas?). The remote beach at the far end (which is not part of the refuge) can only be reached via a 4 mile long, rough dirt road, requiring a truck/ Suv/ Jeep or old clunker you don't care about.

Time well spent! Some of the views and vistas are stunning. There is an excellent fish shack on the way out there with excellent seafood in a picnic setting.

This is the first time my wife and I have been here. We took a slow drive to the end. We walked ton different trails and observation towers and saw 14 different birds. Can't wait to come back in the spring.

A beautiful refuge. We didn’t see much wildlife but so peaceful, quiet and beautiful. Don’t miss this if you’re in the area.

This is a must for anyone who is either in the area or who loves birds, dunes, boardwalks and the sea. Hellcat Swamp trail is the very best, and both the Audubon and Parker River Visitor Centers have great features without duplication.

I bike to the refuge as a stopping place on a 90/70 mile ride. wonderful area, I wish the road was off limits to cars, a shuttle for the bird watches perhaps. the beach area is closed for most of the summer because of nesting plovers. not a beach to swim in anyway, too steep & rough.

Lots of birds to view, even on a raw, windy January day. Saw a variety of raptors and water birds, including a peregrine falcon perched on an osprey nest.

This is the most lovely place on earth! A quiet and spread out sanctuary for wildlife. If you are visiting the area this is NOT to be missed! The dune walk and marsh walk are spectacular. Great for people of all ages.

On several visits to Newburyport, I’ve visited the Parker River NWR and its visitor center. I really like the video. It's a must-see for first-timers.

On this visit, I would have liked to watch the video about the refuge again, but the visitor center building was closed due to COVID; however, the grounds open.

I walked and looked around for about 30 minutes. There were no signs of any birds at that time, but being outside in the fresh air in a natural area was worth the visit, and I enjoyed it.

This coming fall, I plan to revisit and also go to the main part of the refuge during migration time.

I rate my experience for this visit at 4.0.

The reason for the delay in submitting this review was due to a months-long loss of my ability to post photos with my reviews.

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It is always a pleasure getting onto the refuge. It is an amazing place for birding throughout the year (except for June & July when the green-head flies are out!). Fabulous long stretch of beach, with access ramps every few miles or so, with limited parking. So if you get on early and get to one of the smaller lots your beach experience will be nice and private. Oh, and did I say birding?

It was cold and raining a bit the day I visited, at just about closing time. Drove until I came to road closed barriers, then turned around and hit the beach area, awesome beach area, and found many nice shells to pick up for souvenirs for my kiddos!

Just a super place--not so far from town and yet quiet, secluded, and, well, natural. The marshy-ocean presence leaves wonderful air and the flora and fauna at it's best. Leave a few hours to walk leisurely, stop often to look, listen, and smell, and enjoy. Have to make this an annual visit!

a place you a visit year round. Beaches are gorgeous and the fall, winter and spring bring migratory birds making it a fantastic destination!

We drove the entire length of the Refuge on Plum Island on one of the hottest days in July. There were plenty of birds to see- swans and cygnets, an egret, and a lone rabbit on the trail. We were hoping to catch a glimpse of the plovers from the beach (parking lot 1) but could not see them at that angle. This is a great place for birdwatchers or if you feel the need to connect to nature.

This place is so big. I had intentions of spending lots of time here and had a bit of trouble finding parking. We did see many species of birds (we were a little early in the season), but enjoyed our day. It’s a very scenic park.

great place to explore New England marshes and coastline. Great beaches, and wildlife sanctuary. Avoid greenhead fly season in July.