John H. Chafee Nature Preserve
The 230-acre John H. Chafee Nature Preserve at Rome Point in North Kingstown is an undeveloped conservation area home to a variety of wildlife, beachfront, and hiking trails. It's a popular place to view harbor seals resting out on rocks just offshore (seasonally).
In April 2001, the Narragansett Electric Company, a National Grid Company, donated over 200 acres of pristine waterfront property to the state of Rhode Island in honor of the late U.S. Senator, John H. Chafee. Senator Chafee, as Governor of Rhode Island (1963-1969) championed ‘open space’ land set-asides as part of his ‘Green Acres’ program, and he was very active as U.S. Senator in promoting progressive programs of environmental management. Through this gift, Rome Point would remain in its natural beauty for the enjoyment of everyone in Rhode Island.
Amenities
Experiences: Sightseeing, Hiking, Walking, Birding, Saltwater Fishing, Picnicking, Photography
Plan Ahead: Parking is limited in this popular area. Parking, trailhead, and park
map are located on Boston Neck Road near the intersection of Gilbert Stuart Road.
Please contact Felicia.Celeberto@dem.ri.gov or 401-884-2010, Ext. 1, if you intend to use the parks for an organized group gathering or event to determine if the activity requires a Special Use Permit.
History
Rome Point, in North Kingstown, as the property of the nature preserve is commonly known, had been under the care of Narragansett Electric since 1953. It was considered as a site for a nuclear power plant. Care had been taken not to disturb the shoreline property. On April 2, 2001, the Narragansett Electric Company, a National Grid Company, donated over 200 acres of pristine water front property to the state of Rhode Island in honor of the late U.S. Senator, John H. Chafee. Through this gift Narragansett Electric ensured that Rome Point would remain in its natural beauty for the enjoyment of everyone in Rhode Island. Learn more about the history.
