The network of waterways, beaches, parks, and wildlife refuges in the Great Marsh make it an outstanding destination to enjoy boating, fishing, bird watching, hiking, and beach activities.
One reason the Great Marsh is still relatively pristine is because a large percentage of coastal wetlands and surrounding uplands are still protected as conservation land and wildlife sanctuaries. According to one source, over 10,000 acres are owned by federal, state, municipal, and non-profit organizations. The federally owned Parker River National Wildlife Refuge (Ipswich, Rowley, Newbury and Newburyport) contains most of the lands immediately surrounding Plum Island Sound, totalling 4,662 acres.
Some other attractive destinations include: Crane Beach (Ipswich), Old Town Hill (Newbury), Salisbury Beach State Reservation (Salisbury), Joppa Flats Wildlife Sanctuary (Newburyport), and Wingaersheek Beach (Gloucester).
The following businesses, land managers and organizations provide recreational opportunities and information on access to the Great Marsh.
Salisbury Beach State Reservation
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce
Essex County Sportsmen's Association
Essex County Trails Association
Whatever you do, regardless of the season, the Great Marsh and surrounding areas will impress you with its beauty, history, diverse wildlife and more. Take an opportunity to get to know this treasure in your backyard.
The network of tidal creeks and rivers, Plum Island Sound, and Essex Bay provide countless peaceful and serene places to explore by kayak or canoe. There are a number of launch sites where you can start your exploration of the Great Marsh. These include:
· Pavillion Beach in Ipswich, located where Plum Island Sound opens into Ipswich Bay. From here you can explore Plum Island, several tidal rivers and Crane Beach on Castle Neck. It is located at the causeway between Great Neck and Little Neck, on Little Neck Road; access for non-motorized craft is marked.
· Another pubic access point in Ipswich is at the Town Wharf on East Street. Parking is available for a fee.
· The Jones River in Gloucester can be accessed via Long Wharf in Gloucester on Atlantic Street.
· The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Newburyport provides non-motorized boat access to Plum Island Sound and is available from the Refuge at the boat ramp opposite parking lot 1. Boat ramp use is available year-round during Refuge hours of operation, sunrise to sunset.
· With advance arrangements, canoes and kayaks may be launched at high tide from Essex County Greenbelt Association's Cox Reservation in Essex.
· Essex River Basin Adventures provides a variety of guided sea kayak tours for all abilities.
· Local kayaking clubs such as the North Shore Paddlers Network offer paddling trips, workshops and more.
· If you would prefer a comfortable, narrated tour on a larger vessel, several companies in the area offer cruises including: Agawam Boat Charters and Essex River Cruises
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