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. 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: Wednesday-Friday, 10 am-3 pm

Admission

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

As a way to increase access to nature, Mass Audubon also offers several free admission programs at our wildlife sanctuaries.

Facilities

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

Acres

225

Trail Mileage

2 miles (universally accessible: 0.5-mile loop)
Details & map >

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.

Property Regulations

All of the land at our wildlife sanctuaries is protected. By conserving these open spaces, Mass Audubon, along with our members and partners, is able to fulfill its mission of protecting the nature of Massachusetts. When visiting, please take note of the following regulations: 

  • No dog walking or horseback riding; please leave all animals and pets at home (service animals welcome
  • No walking off trail  
  • No collecting or picking natural items
  • No bike riding or operating motorized vehicles; day passes are available for powered mobility devices   
  • No running, swimming, or camping 
  • No operating drones or other remote-controlled vehicles   
  • No fishing, hunting, trapping, or releasing of animals   
  • No feeding wildlife   
  • No smoking 

Photography Guidelines

Mass Audubon welcomes visitors to capture the beauty and wonder of our statewide network of wildlife sanctuaries through photography. If you would like to use a wildlife sanctuary for commercial photography purposes, please review the complete guidelines and learn how to schedule a time.