Oakland Forest is a 30-acre parcel located off Carriage Drive in Portsmouth. It was saved from development in 2000 by Aquidneck Land Trust and the community. The property includes a regionally ecologically unique old-growth beech forest, with trees estimated to be between 200-300 years old. On the northwest side of the meadow, you will also see man-made wetlands, or “green infrastructure,” designed to improve water quality with a natural and wildlife-friendly look and feel. These water quality improvements provide mechanisms to treat stormwater as water passes through the area into St. Mary’s Pond, one of the drinking supply water reservoirs for Aquidneck Island.

The Oakland Forest and Meadow Trail is a short 0.6-mile loop trail open from dawn to dusk that goes through a 10-acre meadow and 20 acres of old-growth beech forest. It is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing or a quiet stroll through the forest. Because of Oakland’s unique and delicate ecosystem, dogs are not allowed here on the trail. There are also no bicycles or motorized vehicles allowed.

Carriage Drive Trailhead Driving Landmarks: Turn onto Union St. at the light on East Main Rd. in Portsmouth. Take your first left onto Carriage Drive. The road bends sharply to the right at approximately 0.1 miles. Continue to follow Carriage Dr. for approximately 0.4 miles to a small parking lot on your left. There are several bushes in the parking lot area and houses on either side. If you reach the end of Carriage Dr., you have gone approximately 0.1 miles too far.

Parking lot, 3 spaces, no overnight parking