Barnstable County

Coastal wetlands and marshes in Barnstable County

Cape Cod’s landscape is defined by its intricate network of salt marshes, freshwater swamps, and cranberry bogs. This collection highlights significant ecological sites across Barnstable County, from the research-rich Great Sippewisset Marsh to the massive Great Marshes of West Barnstable. These wetlands serve as vital habitats for migratory birds and local marine life, with many featuring boardwalks and trails that allow for the observation of tidal changes and native flora like salt hay and Atlantic white cedar.

Coastal Wetlands and Marshes — Map

A

Lighthouse Marsh

Coastal salt marsh located near the historic Chatham Lighthouse.

B

Marsh

Marsh

C

Black Pond

Freshwater marsh and pond located in the Brewster area.

D

Mud Pond

Small freshwater marshland situated near the Dennis-Brewster town line.

E

Great Marshes

Massive salt marsh system protected by the Sandy Neck barrier beach, vital for regional biodiversity.

F

Long Swamp

Inland wetland area located in the western portion of Cape Cod.

G

Nye Bog

Wetland area in Sandwich, historically associated with regional cranberry cultivation.

H

Round Swamp

Small inland wetland located near the Sandwich town center.

I

Scorton Creek Marshes

Extensive salt marsh system along Scorton Creek, frequently used for kayaking and birdwatching.

J

Raccoon Swamp

Wetland area located within the Sandwich town boundaries.

K

Spruce Swamp

Bog and wetland area characterized by acidic soil and native vegetation.

L

Cranberry Bog

Traditional Cape Cod cranberry bog used for seasonal harvesting.

M

Cranberry Bog

Seasonal wetland area utilized for cranberry production in Marstons Mills.

N

Pucasset River Marshes

Estuarine marsh system along the Pocasset River, influenced by Buzzards Bay tides.

O

Sandwich Harbor Marshes

Salt marshes surrounding Sandwich Harbor, offering views of the Cape Cod Canal entrance.

P

Station Pond Marsh

Tidal wetland area located near the southern coast of Chatham.

Q

Great Sippewisset Marsh

Major salt marsh in Falmouth, internationally recognized as a site for salt marsh ecology research.

R

Bucks Creek Marshes

Coastal marshes located near Hardings Beach, providing habitat for migratory shorebirds.

S

Mitchell River Marshes

Tidal marshland situated along the Mitchell River in Chatham.

T

Bass Hole Marshes

Salt marsh in Yarmouth Port featuring a long wooden boardwalk extending over the wetlands to Cape Cod Bay.

Other Lists

Barnstable County's Quintessential Cape Cod Best Beaches Recreational Areas and Parks Iconic Lighthouses Museums and Galleries