About North River

Tree Swallow © John Galuzzo
Tree Swallow © John Galuzzo

North River Wildlife Sanctuary, named for the state-designated Scenic River that winds along its northern boundary, serves as the base for South Shore Sanctuaries (which includes Daniel Webster and North Hill Marsh). 

The sanctuary's fields, oak forest, and salt marsh attract a wide variety of birds and seals are often visible from the riverside platform. Programs and summer camp take place in and around the historic building.

Location

2000 Main Street, Marshfield, MA 02050
Get directions or contact us >

Hours

  • Trails: Open daily, dawn to dusk
  • Nature Center: Closed
  • Restrooms: Closed

Admission

Members: Free
Nonmembers: $4 Adults, $3 Seniors (65+), $3 Children (2-12) 

As a way to give even more people access to nature and to thank active military for their service, we are proud to offer:

EBT Participants: Free for up to 4 people when you show your EBT card
ConnectorCare Card to Culture Participants: Free for up to 4 people when you show your ConnectorCare card
Wonderfund Access: Free for up to 4 people when you show your Wonderfund card
Active-Duty Military: Free for up to 5 people with a valid military ID card

→ For your safety and to avoid conflicts with wildlife, please follow our sanctuary guidelines during your visit.

Facilities

  • Parking
  • Universally Accessible Nature Center
  • Universally Accessible Restrooms
  • Universally Accessible Trail
  • Picnic Area

Acres

225

Trail Mileage

5 miles (universally accessible: 0.5-mile loop)

Sanctuary Highlights

  • Boardwalks that take you down to the edge of the North River or through the woods to the Hannah Eames Brook where you may see flowering witch hazel, mink, or dragonflies.
  • Indoor Discovery Rooms where you can watch birds in the rain garden, study a pinecone under a microscope, use your imagination to build a wooden creature, or relax in the Book Nook.
  • Annual events including an Open House and Native Plant Sale each June and the Holiday Open House in early December.
  • A gift shop featuring locally handcrafted items in addition to field guides, books, feeders, and nature-themed gifts for all ages.