End of Palmer Neck Road
Stonington, CT 06378
The kids and I really loved exploring the trails and the marsh here at Barn Island. Its the best when you can have the hybrid of both trails and the ocean. My kids love the ability to run wild during our hikes and to find sea creatures. So for us, it was a big thumbs up being here and leisurely exploring the grounds.
Common wildlife sightings here include birds (we saw beautiful yellow and black ones but from afar), fiddler and blue crabs, shrimp and fish. During one of our trips here, we found a large soft shelled crab (see the video below). That was our first time finding one of these guys of this magnitude. We didn’t realize how delicate it would be but, it was like gelatin upon touching it. For us, it was so interesting and it sparked further investigations into molting. I think this is what nature is all about and the kids are seeing that too. Being in nature allows you to open your mind and exposes you to different things that you never knew existed. It allows for both children and adults to image, explore and through interest and curiosity seek more knowledge. It is truly miraculous! We hope you enjoy this location when you visit. It has really incredible views of the coastline. The birds will sing to you and the environment is relaxed and peaceful-just what the doctor ordered for us all!
The Skinny:
- Weather : A dry day is ideal because this location is completely outdoors
- Pricing & Admissions : FREE
- Location : A 1000+ acres of coastal nature preserve in a marshland offering stunning views of Little Narragansett Bay and Wequetequock Cove, birds, crabs and other wildlife. There is wooded area with wide, flat dirt paths for hiking or mountain biking. The rating on Alltrails is easy. There are numerous trails that weave in and out of this area so you can make your visit short or long-your preference.
- Parking : There is a lot across the road from a gated nature preservation area if fits about 6-10 cars but people do park along the road. There is also a huge lot at the top of the road where boat docking is available.
- Hours : Sun rise to sunset daily
- Duration : We stayed here about 3-4 hours each time
- Tips and Recommendations : Bring a kayak, canoe boat or jet ski if you would like to investigate the waters more so as there is a boat launch at the end of Palmer Neck Road where the trail is. Several people bring their dogs here. Bug spray is a must and boots / sneakers that are okay for walking and getting muddy.
Jewel Approved 👍🏼
Jamison Approved 👍🏼
Also in this area is Misquamicut State Beach, Napatree Point Beach, Mystic Aquarium, and Bluff Point State Park. We honestly love them all and know you will too!
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