Features

See a large vernal pool up close at the Mattapoisett Land Trust’s Woodcock Preserve, which borders Tinkhamtown Woodlands.

Tinkhamtown Woodlands is part of the Mattapoisett River Reserve, a growing network of over 500 acres of conserved land in the Mattapoisett River Valley. These habitats protect clean drinking water for residents of Fairhaven, Marion, Mattapoisett, and Rochester.

As one of the newest properties in the Mattapoisett River Reserve, Tinkhamtown Woodlands provides a fresh perspective on the reserve’s natural habitats and beauty. The property is named for the Tinkham family, which has lived in this part of Mattapoisett for centuries and once owned the land. Today, this land is now open to the public for you to discover. Take a quiet journey along the fern-lined trails, which welcome explorers of all ages – whether on foot, bike, or horseback.

Trails

About a mile of well-marked trails wind through Tinkhamtown Woodlands and the Woodcock Preserve. The trail stretches south through town-owned property to link with the trails at Tripps Mill and The Bogs, offering several hours’ worth of outdoor exploration for adventurous hikers. (Download trail map)

For a shorter trek, head into the woods and stay straight at the fork to reach the Mattapoisett Land Trust’s scenic Woodcock Preserve. The trail runs past a large vernal pool and ends at a fallen beech grove. This section of the trail is bumpy and muddy in a few places, so be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes or boots on your visit here.

If you’re seeking a longer journey, turn left at the fork and venture south on a winding trail through the pines toward Tinkham Pond and Tripps Mill. The end of this trail crosses private property, so please follow all posted signage and respect private property. Once you reach Acushnet Road, turn right to reach the trails at Tripps Mill and The Bogs.

Habitats & Wildlife

The habitats at Tinkhamtown Woodlands shift as you wander from the damp freshwater wetlands near the Woodcock Preserve to the drier, sandy soils and pines on the upland trail. It’s a snapshot of the wide diversity of habitats that the Mattapoisett River Reserve protects.

If you’re looking for wildlife, we recommend you head to the Woodcock Preserve’s vernal pool, which is located along the trail. This large, temporary pond fills with melting snow and spring rains each year, creating a special habitat where frogs, salamanders, and other species breed. In early spring, listen for the sound of peepers singing among the trees.

Property Owned By

Buzzards Bay Coalition & Mattapoisett Land Trust

The Buzzards Bay Coalition is a membership-supported nonprofit organization dedicated to the restoration, protection, and sustainable use and enjoyment of our irreplaceable Bay and its watershed.

The Mattapoisett Land Trust is a nonprofit organization that works to preserve land to enrich the quality of life for Mattapoisett residents and visitors. Founded in 1974, the land trust holds properties totaling more than 650 acres.