Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Fort McClary State Historic Site is located in Kittery, Maine, overlooking the Piscataqua River near the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean. The site encompasses a well-preserved coastal fortification that played a strategic role in the defense of Portsmouth Harbor from the late 1600s through World War II. The fort’s structures include granite and earthworks fortifications, gun emplacements from multiple eras, and a distinctive five-sided granite magazine. The site is set in a coastal environment characterized by rocky shoreline, salt marshes, and tidal estuaries that support diverse birdlife and marine ecosystems. Visitors can walk the grounds to see historical military architecture and learn about the fort’s evolution from the Revolutionary War through the Endicott period of fortifications. Outdoor activities include walking the trails with scenic views of the river and harbor, birdwatching along the shorelines, and picnicking in designated areas. Interpretive signs and occasional reenactments add educational value. The site is popular for history buffs, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful coastal outing. Its proximity to nearby Portsmouth, New Hampshire, makes it accessible for day trips and combined visits with other historic and natural attractions in the region.
