My Favorite Park in New Hampshire Is a Little-Known Oasis for Birding

I was born in New Hampshire, and although I grew up in Rhode Island, I would sometimes return to the Granite State for a visit. The beauty of the state's coastline has always impressed me. One little-known state park along the coast is also an underrated oasis for birdwatching, and if you love birding, you must plan a visit to Odiorne Point State Park.

Located in the coastal town of Rye, New Hampshire, the 135-acre Odiorne Point State Park is a fascinating seaside spot with both natural and manmade points of interest. Throughout the park, you'll find paved paths for bikes, strollers, and those using mobility equipment, as well as a boat launch, secluded beaches, breakwaters, and a rocky coastline of 18 miles.

There are numerous landmarks, including stone walls, the abandoned World War II bunkers of Battery Seaman, the Settlers Monument commemorating New Hampshire's first English settlers, and an old stone fountain. During your visit, be sure to stop by the Seacoast Science Center to learn about marine life and observe fish in their tanks. There's even an interactive touch tank to get up close and personal with some of the area's sealife—a perfect option for those with kids.

It's incredible how much there is to see and do in such a small, underrated state park that you may overlook just how relaxing it can be. With several hiking trails and its position along the coast, this state park is home to numerous bird species, and there are several spots where you can sit and relax for a while, watching the birds.

Can you imagine sitting on a park bench for hours on end as you overlook the rocky coastline? This is an excellent spot for watching migratory birds in the fall. However, each season brings different bird species to the area, so come back often with your Birds of Maine Field Guide and a notebook to track what you see. Odoirne Point State Park may become your new favorite birding destination.

There have been so many bird species spotted here. Among the birds of prey spotted are ospreys, Cooper's hawks, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and Northern Harriers. Waterfowl is abundant, so keep your eyes peeled for long-tailed ducks, red-throated loons, great cormorants, marsh wrens, and more. This New Hampshire state park is a birding paradise!

Have you ever gone birding at Odiorne Point State Park? What species of birds did you see? If you've never been to this beautiful state park and love birdwatching, don't forget to bring a pair of binoculars and, most importantly, your sense of adventure!

For fees, hours of operation, and location information on Odiorne Point State Park, visit the New Hampshire State Parks website. And if you're looking for another fantastic birding spot, plan an afternoon at Pondicherry Wildlife Sanctuary in Whitefield, NH. Looking for related content? Take a look at our official guide to exploring state parks in New Hampshire.