Ellisville Harbor State Park

Ellisville Harbor State Park is a Massachusetts state park located in the village of Ellisville in Plymouth. The park is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

Description

Ellisville Harbor State Park protects a unique coastal property which includes beachfront, salt marsh, rolling meadows, and red pine forest habitats. One of the most scenic spots on the South Shore coastline, visitors can see small fishing boats, a barrier beach, sphagnum bog, forested upland and open meadows. The large bog attracts many interesting birds as both a habitat and migrations stopover. In fall and winter, harbor seals can often be seen just offshore.

A wide main trail of about 350 yards is maintained with a processed stone surface from a parking area to a wide, rocky beach. The endangered piping plovers and least terns nest along a section of the beach which is closed in the spring. Several side trails access other areas of the park. Poison ivy is a concern along trail edges.

An 18th century farmstead is also included on the property and is part of the Department of Conservation and Recreations Historic Curatorship Program. As of 2009, the curators are Don and Kristy McIvor.

The park is accessed from Massachusetts Route 3A, about one mile north of Massachusetts Route 3's Exit 2. Parking is free.

Recreational opportunities

• Fishing - Salt water from shore and jette
• Bird watching
• Hiking
• Scenic viewing area
• Cross-country skiing
• Walking trails
• Beachcombing

History

Between 2,500 and 5,000 years ago, prehistoric Native Americans hunted, fished, harvested shellfish and made tools here. At least two Native American sites are in the area. In its earlier days the harbor was a busy loading spot for ships taking timber to Boston and for local fishing.

The area was designated an Area of Critical Environmental Concern in January 1980.

Photos

• 
  Entrance sign at Route 3a
• 
  Picnic area overlooking harbor
• 
  Typical main trail
• 
  Beach from end of trail looking south
• 
  Beach from end of trail looking north

External links

• Ellisville Harbor State Park Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Ellisville Harbor Area of Critical Environmental Concern Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs

Video of Ellisville marine life: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oalg6fwpxmo