Please enjoy the Preserve. Always use caution when hiking. If you have an old trail map, download a new 2011 Trail Guide & Map here.
Click to read the recently-published OHNP Terrestrial Ecology Survey by Richard Gallagher, a critically important report assessing the Preserve's biological assets.
Our Vision for the Nature Preserve
We envision a 700-acre Oswegatchie Hills Nature Preserve, adjacent to the Niantic River and extending from Veterans Memorial Field to Golden Spur in East Lyme, Connecticut, as publicly-accessible land where visitors are inspired to appreciate and respect nature and nature preservation. It will remain a pristine habitat for a multitude of flora and fauna, including several endangered species, and will serve to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Niantic River as well as the rich archaeological history in place since the days of the Nehantic Indians. This rugged forest, teeming with wildlife and filled with ponds, streams, and spectacular rock formations, sloping to an unspoiled saltwater frontage, will remain a place of quiet beauty forever.
Mission
To acquire the undeveloped land within Oswegatchie Hills and to maintain a public nature preserve for future generations to enjoy.
In order to accomplish this mission, the FOHNP will:
- serve as a leading grassroots force for preservation of the Hills;
- increase public awareness of the environmental, educational and recreational significance of the Hills to the town and region;
- raise funds needed by partnering with federal, state and local governments and other organizations and by securing contributions from private sources; and
- coordinate the day-to-day operations and maintain the Preserve through active participation on the Oswegatchie Hills Nature Preserve Council, as described in the Management Plan dated December 15, 2006.