Ellisville Harbor State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ellisville Harbor State Park |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
 Ellisville Harbor State Park
Location in Massachusetts
|
|
| Location | Ellisville, Plymouth, Massachusetts, United States |
| Area | 97 acres (39 ha) |
| Elevation | 0 ft (0 m) |
| Established | 1991 |
| Governing body | Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation |
| Website | Ellisville Harbor State Park |
Ellisville Harbor State Park is a special nature park in Ellisville. It's located right on the coast of Cape Cod Bay in Massachusetts. This park is a great place to explore different natural areas. You can find sandy barrier beaches, wet sphagnum bogs, grassy salt marshes, rolling meadows, and peaceful red pine forests here. It's managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Contents
History of the Park
Early Days and Native Americans
Thousands of years ago, between 2,500 and 5,000 years ago, Native Americans lived and worked here. They hunted animals, fished in the waters, and gathered shellfish. They also made tools from materials found in the area.
Becoming a Protected Area
In 1980, a large area of about 600 acres was named an "Area of Critical Environmental Concern" (ACEC). This means it's a very important natural place that needs special protection. In 1991, the state bought 100 acres of this ACEC land. This is how Ellisville Harbor State Park was created.
The Harbor's Past Life
Long ago, the harbor was a busy place. Ships would load timber here to take to Boston. Local fishermen also used the harbor for their boats. Today, you can still see a colonial-style farmstead and tavern on the park property. It's part of a program that helps preserve historic buildings.
Natural Wonders and Wildlife
Habitats You Can Explore
Ellisville Harbor State Park is home to many different natural habitats. These include a long barrier beach, which is a sandy strip of land protecting the coast. There are also unique sphagnum bogs and salt marshes. You'll find open meadows and forests filled with red pine trees.
Animals and Views
The park offers amazing views of the South Shore coastline. You might see small fishing boats out on the water. If you visit in the fall or winter, keep an eye out for harbor seals swimming offshore! Many different kinds of birds are attracted to the park's bog. It's a great place for them to live and a resting spot during their long migrations.
Activities and Fun at the Park
Things to Do
Ellisville Harbor State Park is a wonderful place for outdoor activities. You can go fishing, enjoy hiking on the trails, or try cross-country skiing in the winter. It's also a popular spot for beachcombing, where you can search for shells and treasures along the shore.
Trails and Beach Access
There's a wide main trail that is about 350 yards long. It has a smooth, stone surface, making it easy to walk from the parking area to the wide, rocky beach. There are also several smaller side trails that lead to other parts of the park. Be aware that poison ivy can sometimes grow along the edges of these side trails.
Protecting Our Birds
A special part of the beach is closed during the spring. This is to protect endangered birds like the piping plover and least tern. These birds build their nests and raise their young along this section of the beach. It's important to give them space so they can thrive.
