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A scenic view of grassy hills and a white lighthouse on the coast of Thacher Island, with the ocean in the background

Thacher Island

National Wildlife Refuge
Sunrise - Sunset
Detailed hours
C/O Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
Rockport, MA 01966

Plan Your Visit

Although there are scenic trails on both the refuge and town-owned portion of the island, the refuge does not currently provide public access to the island. The island is accessible by kayak or small boats (under appropriate weather and sea conditions). During the summer months the Thacher Island Association operates a boat out of Rockport. Contact the Association at Box 73, Rockport, MA 01966.

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Hours
Opens: Sunrise
Closes: Sunset
Detailed hours
Safety Policies
For emergencies: 911
Rules and Policies

Activities

In the foreground, 2 people with large orange backpacks hike up a steep slope of rock and lichen. In the background are big mountains with snow patches on top, a lake in a valley, and a cloudy sky.
Hiking
Two volunteers birding on sandpiper trail at Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge.
Birding
A woman facing us in a broad-brimmed hat aims a camera's long lens at something unseen in the greenery.
Photography

Featured Species

Common Tern
Sterna hirundo
Roseate Tern
Sterna dougallii
American Oystercatcher
Haematopus palliatus

Get Involved

Whether you want to further conservation, learn more about nature or share your love of the outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. National wildlife refuges provide many opportunities for you to help your community and fish and wildlife by doing what you love.

Services

Projects & ResearchLaw EnforcementLaws & Regulations

About

Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1972 to protect the northern 22 acres of Thacher Island as habitat for migratory birds. Located thirty miles north of Boston, the refuge serves as an essential stopover for songbirds and provides off-shore habitat for seals, waterfowl, and alcids. The island is also historically significant, featuring iconic twin lighthouses that continue to grace its rocky landscape.

Law EnforcementLaws & RegulationsRules & Policies
A scenic view of grassy hills and a white lighthouse on the coast of Thacher Island, with the ocean in the background
Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge
C/O Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
Rockport, MA 01966
(978) 465-5753

Send any mail correspondence c/o Parker River National Wildlife Refuge at 6 Plum Island Turnpike Newburyport, MA 01950.