The east side of the Damariscotta River once contained an enormous shell heap named Whaleback because of its shape. Much of this midden was removed in the late 1880s to supply a factory built here to process the oyster shells into chicken feed. As a result, only a small portion of Whaleback remains today. Managed in cooperation with the Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, the area around the midden is now a State Historic Site that includes a small hiking trail and beautiful views of the river. A series of interpretive panels helps inform visitors about the history of the area.

Bonyun Preserve is conservation land managed primarily for the preservation of wildlife. The Preserve is open free of charge to the public from dawn to dusk. Easy, moderate and scenic 1.7 mile loop with dirt, forest floor and rocky ledge. No pets allowed. B.Y.O.B. Bring your own Bug spray!