The park was the site of the 1623 Pannaway Plantation, the first European settlement in New Hampshire.
During World War II, the area was converted into a coastal defense base known as Fort Dearborn.
The park encompasses seven distinct natural habitats, ranging from sandy dunes to wooded uplands.
The Seacoast Science Center houses a permanent exhibit on humpback whales and local marine recovery efforts.
Several original concrete bunkers are still visible and accessible to hikers along the park's perimeter trails.
The park provides unique tidal pool observation sites that are exposed only during low tide.
The site hosts a year-round population of harbor seals often visible from the rocky coastline.
The park serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds following the Atlantic Flyway.
Odiorne Point State Park is a 330-acre coastal park located at the site of the former Seacoast defense installation, Fort Dearborn. The park contains the Seacoast Science Center, which focuses on the marine ecology of the Gulf of Maine. Visitors can traverse over three miles of trails that cut through diverse habitats, including salt marshes, rocky beaches, and freshwater ponds. The terrain features remnants of World War II-era concrete bunkers and gun batteries. It serves as a primary access point for the New Hampshire coastline, offering direct views of the Atlantic Ocean. The park's varied ecosystem supports significant migratory bird populations and local marine life.
The rocky overlook near the former fort’s concrete observation posts.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting seals on the offshore ledges.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear to navigate the uneven terrain and rocky shoreline safely.
Check local tide charts before visiting to ensure access to the best tide-pooling areas.
Plan your visit to coincide with guided nature walks offered by the Science Center.
Attempting to climb on the restricted, gated World War II bunker ruins; walking on fragile dune grass.
Park gates typically lock at sunset; the Seacoast Science Center operates on a seasonal schedule with reduced days in winter.
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile salt marsh vegetation; pack out all trash.
