Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge

Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge is a large protected area containing salt marshes, ponds, forests, and wetlands that are crossed by Waquoit Bay. The land includes cedar swamps and cranberry farming areas, with multiple recreational zones accessible to visitors throughout the terrain.

The refuge was created in 1995 to protect the local ecosystems and species at risk in the region. It joined a larger network of protected areas across Eastern Massachusetts that work together for conservation.

Local conservation groups manage the refuge together and support nature education programs that connect visitors with the landscape. You can see how the community values this land as a living classroom where people learn about native plants and wildlife.

The refuge offers marked walking trails that can be accessed from several entry points throughout the property. Plan your visit based on what you want to see, as different seasons bring different birds and wildlife, and some areas may be muddy depending on recent weather.

This site is the second largest open space on Cape Cod that is freely accessible to visitors and features rare Atlantic white cedar swamps. These specific wetlands are home to New England cottontail rabbits, animals that have become uncommon in the surrounding area.