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Odiorne Point State Park: Where History Meets the Sea

Explore history and nature at Odiorne Point State Park: scenic trails, WWII bunkers, and ocean views await in Rye, New Hampshire.

Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, New Hampshire, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. From its early days as a Native American settlement and the site of the first European settlement in New Hampshire to its transformation into Fort Dearborn during World War II, the park provides visitors with diverse experiences and stunning ocean views.

A brief summary to Odiorne Point State Park

  • Rye, New Hampshire, 03870, US

Local tips

  • Check the tide charts before visiting to explore the tide pools and sandy beach areas.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching and to get a better view of the lighthouses and the Isles of Shoals.
  • Wear sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to hike the trails or explore the rocky shoreline.
  • Consider making a reservation, especially during weekends and holidays, as parking is limited.
  • Visit the Seacoast Science Center to learn more about the park's natural and military history (separate admission fee).
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Portsmouth, take NH-1A South for approximately 3.5 miles. The entrance to Odiorne Point State Park will be on your left. Parking is available within the park, with limited spaces, especially during peak season. Day-use fees apply: $4 for adults (12 and over), $2 for children (6-11), and free for children 5 and under. New Hampshire residents age 65 and over are admitted free. During the off-season, deposit payment in the self-serve pay station.

  • Public Transport

    The Coast bus route 40 stops at the corner of Route 1A and Ocean Road, a walk of about 10 minutes to the park entrance. A single fare is $1.50 [https://www.thecoast.com/fares/]. From the bus stop, walk south on Route 1A/Ocean Boulevard, then turn left into the park entrance.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in Rye along Route 1A, you can easily walk to Odiorne Point State Park. From the center of Rye, head north or south on Route 1A/Ocean Boulevard until you reach the park entrance. The park is located approximately 3.5 miles south of Portsmouth. Once inside the park, follow the paved paths and trails to explore the various attractions.

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Discover more about Odiorne Point State Park

Odiorne Point State Park, located on New Hampshire's seacoast in Rye, is a 330-acre park where history and natural beauty converge. The park boasts the longest stretch of undeveloped shoreline in the state, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Isles of Shoals, and four lighthouses. Originally inhabited by indigenous peoples like the Pennacook and Abenaki, Odiorne Point became the site of New Hampshire's first European settlement in 1623. A monument within the park commemorates this historical event. In the mid-1660s, the Odiorne family settled here, making their living through fishing, farming, and trading with the Abenaki Indians. The family resided on the land for 282 years. The landscape dramatically changed in 1942 when the U.S. government acquired the land to build Fort Dearborn during World War II. This military installation was part of the harbor defenses of Portsmouth, intended to protect Portsmouth Harbor and the Piscataqua River from potential attacks. Remnants of Fort Dearborn, including concrete bunkers, can still be explored today, offering a glimpse into the area's military past. Today, Odiorne Point State Park is managed by the New Hampshire Division of Natural and Cultural Resources. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, including coastal pitch pine forests, sandy beaches, salt marshes, and rocky shores. Miles of trails wind through the park, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and nature walks. The Seacoast Science Center, located within the park, offers exhibits and educational programs about the natural history of the seacoast area. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery, Odiorne Point State Park offers something for everyone.

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