Hidden Gem: Caratunk Wildlife Refuge

Six miles of walking trails. Sixty bird species. Secluded space.

, nestled off Brown Avenue, is one of the Seekonk's most beautiful areas to explore with a pair of binoculars. Expansive fields are homes to endangered bird species and winding trails give way to sites like ponds, centuries-old stone walls and owl nests.

But the refuge offers more than just a haven for nature lovers. In an old, wooden building that guards the entrance to the refuge, bright colored posters depicting weather processes and bird species line the walls, indicators that young minds are at work.

Last week, students enrolled in the Audubon Society of Rhode Island Wild Science camp found a checkered garter snake. The young John Muirs of tomorrow were fascinated by its physical form.

"We think she's pregnant!" said camper Madison Quattrini.

"This one's nice," said assistant director Angelica Morrison as she held the slithering creature in her hands.

According to Joe Koger, Audubon teacher naturalist and biology teacher, camps meet throughout the summer at the refuge. He says his campers have to "rough it." There's no air conditioning in the white house-turned-classroom that overlooks the fields. They spend their days searching for life forms in the woods and thereby learn hands-on about the ecosystems that surround.

"It's not a museum or a zoo. You have to look for things. They're learning to respect nature," said Joe Koger, Audubon teacher naturalist and biology teacher.

The refuge is open from down to dusk. No dogs are allowed.