Raccoon Island

map of Massachusetts Bay near Hough's Neck, with Raccoon Island highlighted

NPS Photo

This small island is characterized by gravel beaches and rocky slopes.

A small island off Houghs Neck in Quincy, Raccoon Island had been once called "Sun Island." Although mostly undisturbed, the island has been used for both sheep grazing and camping over its history.

 

General Information

This island of Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park is managed by Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

 

Visitor Facilities & Services

Hours:
 Access discouraged
Piers/Docks:
 No
Visitor season:
 0
Boat slips:
 0
Visitor staff:
 No
Moorings:
 0
Guided tours:
 No
Park boats:
 None
Lifeguards:
 No
Car access:
 No
Flush toilets:
 No
Campsites:
 0 (capacity ea: 0)
Composting toilets:
 No
Group campsites:
 0 (capacity ea: 0)
Picnic areas:
 No
Camping capacity:
 0
Refreshments:
 No
Cooking grills:
 0
Drinking water:
 No
Walking trails:
 No

On-island Circulation: Unimproved trails.

 

Short History

There is limited recorded history of activity on Raccoon Island, though Indigenous people likely accessed the island as a seasonal campsite. In the 1600s, European colonists grazed sheep on the island and referred to it as "Sun Island." In the 1880s, the island was described as covering ten-acres and was used for recreational camping parties. In the 1930s, a religious organization hosted a summer camp on the island.

 

Natural History Overview

Vegetation

Vegetation survey in progress.

Wildlife

Please see Animals page for more information.

Geology

There are bedrock outcroppings on the island.

Water Features.

Further study required.

Views and Vistas

The island has views of Boston Light, Downtown Boston, Hull, and surrounding islands.

 

Structures

Last updated: November 30, 2023

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
21 Second Ave
Charlestown, MA 02129

Phone:

617 223-8666

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