Great Neck Wildlife Sanctuary
A Coastal Haven for Wildlife and Ecological Renewal
The Great Neck Wildlife Sanctuary is a 120-acre coastal forest located on the Great Neck peninsula in Wareham. Owned and managed by Mass Audubon, the sanctuary offers a peaceful escape into nature with nearly two miles of trails, sweeping views of salt marsh and bay, and a chance to experience one of the most ecologically important landscapes in southeastern Massachusetts.
This sanctuary is part of a larger block of protected land on Great Neck, including the Town-owned Great Neck Conservation Area. Together, these properties provide critical habitat and public access to open space, and link together over 300 acres protected for Wareham’s coastal heritage.
Ecological Restoration and Recovery
Before Mass Audubon acquired the property, the land was significantly impacted by invasive plant growth and lack of management under previous ownership. Since then, Audubon has undertaken extensive restoration work to reclaim the sanctuary and restore its natural functions. This effort has included the removal of aggressive invasive species, reestablishment of native vegetation, and long-term planning to support healthy forest and wetland systems.
These restoration efforts have dramatically improved habitat quality and have created better conditions for birds, amphibians, pollinators, and native plants to thrive.
Wildlife and Habitat
The sanctuary includes a mix of upland pitch pine and oak forest, freshwater wetlands, salt marsh, vernal pools, and tidal estuary. These diverse habitats support species such as ospreys, painted turtles, great blue herons, foxes, and a wide range of migratory birds. Seasonal blooms of native wildflowers add color and ecological value throughout the growing season.
This land also helps protect Buzzards Bay by filtering water, reducing erosion, and acting as a natural buffer to sea level rise.
Trail Experience
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Nearly 2 miles of marked trails
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Views of salt marsh and coastal woodlands
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Excellent birdwatching opportunities - Osprey and Great Blue Herons are abundant!
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Quiet places to sit, reflect, and observe wildlife
Trails are generally easy to moderate, though some areas may be uneven or seasonally wet. Please wear proper footwear and stay on marked routes.
Please note: To protect sensitive habitats and wildlife, dogs and bicycles are not permitted on sanctuary trails.
How to Visit
Trailhead and Parking:
The entrance to the sanctuary is located on Stockton Shortcut Road in Wareham, just beyond the trailhead for the Great Neck Conservation Area. Look for the Mass Audubon sign and gravel parking area.
GPS Coordinates:
Latitude: 41.7268
Longitude: -70.6640
Visitor Guidelines
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Open daily from sunrise to sunset
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Foot traffic only
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No dogs or bikes allowed
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Stay on trails and carry out all trash
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Respect all posted signage and wildlife viewing areas
A Regional Conservation Partnership
Great Neck Wildlife Sanctuary is one piece of a broader conservation vision that involves Mass Audubon, Wareham Land Trust, the Town of Wareham, along with other local partners. Together, these efforts protect hundreds of acres of forest and shoreline while creating meaningful public access and educational opportunities.
Support the Sanctuary
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Become a member of Mass Audubon to support ongoing restoration and conservation
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Join a seasonal walk or nature program hosted on the property
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Help spread awareness of this special place and encourage others to visit respectfully
The Great Neck Wildlife Sanctuary is a shining example of what is possible when conservation and community come together. From invasive species recovery to thriving habitat, this land tells a story of resilience and renewal that will continue for generations to come.
