This Island In Rhode Island Is So Remote, It’s Only Accessible By Boat
By Natalie Clunan
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Published May 06, 2018
Rhode Island has quite a few islands, Block Island, Goat Island, and Prudence Island to name a few. Even the busy towns of Jamestown and Newport are found on islands. Bridges and ferries are commonplace in the Ocean State. But there are some islands that are only accessible by boat and Dutch Island is one of them. Many have never explored this cool spot not too far off the coast.
Dutch Island is located in the Narragansett Bay. Unlike other islands in Rhode Island, you can't get there by bridge or ferry. To reach this island, you have to arrive by the power of your own boat.
In the protected waters of the bay, the trip by kayak or canoe is relatively easy.
At the southern end of the island lies the historic Dutch Island Light. The lighthouse stands 42 feet tall.
At just over 100 acres, this island has a lot of territory to explore. From 1898-1947, there were military buildings and active gun batteries on the island and the area was known as Fort Greble.
Journey down the overgrown paths to discover the ruins of this military fort.
Nature is reclaiming what was once a bustling center of defense for the bay.
Many of the buildings are unstable and are just a shell of their former selves.
The island is also a resting point for migratory birds.
Along the shoreline you are apt to find water critters and shellfish.
Dutch Island is also a popular picnicking and swimming spot.
Overnight camping is strictly prohibited on Dutch Island. The island has been closed to the public in the past for safety concerns, it's best to check with the RI Department of Environmental Management before venturing out.
Have you ever paddled your way out to Dutch Island? Share your experiences and photos if you have them in the comments section below.
You can read more about Jamestown, the island right next door, by reading this previous article .
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