Maine State Parks

Lake St. George State Park is designed with the love of water in mind. While many state parks in Maine emphasize hiking and forestry, Lake St. George State Park stands out with its emphasis on enjoying the water. The park spans 360 acres and is full of fun. It is easy to find, 16 miles west of Belfast and 25 miles east of Augusta on the northwest corner of Lake St. George in Liberty, Maine. In total, the lake spans 1,017 acres and is great way to spend a day-time visit or overnight excursion.

On the lake, fishing will always be a favorite. Lake St. George features landlocked salmon and brook trout that keep fisherman satisfied all year round. There are even bass hiding in the lake that put fisherman through quite the hunt, if they do not know where to look. Canoeing is another very popular pastime at Lake St. George State Park. The lake is dotted with undeveloped islands that are the perfect spot for nature exploration and outdoor adventures. The lake is always under the constant eye of lifeguards from the shore, which makes swimming and boating extremely safe on these constantly calm waters. There are even boats and canoes for rent, so that you can enjoy everything Lake St. George State Park has to offer, even if you do not own a boat yourself.

On land, there are also a ton of great activities at Lake St. George State Park. From hiking to snowmobiling, there is something for everyone. There are even volleyball and basketball courts located near some of the picnic areas. If you plan on spending the night, there are almost 40 different campsites to choose from and they are all near showers and bathrooms to help make your nights and days as relaxing and revitalizing as possible.

If you love to hike, then you will enjoy over 5 miles of interconnected trails that will take you on a trip through the breathtaking wilderness that is full of wildlife. If you spend any time walking around the lake, you are sure to spot loons that frequent the area. There is nothing better than meeting the new day with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate and seeing the sunrise reflecting off of the lake, while listening to the calls of the awakening loons and other wildlife in the area. With so many different things to see and experience, it is no wonder that Lake St. George State Park has become such a popular location, whether it be for an afternoon or a weekend trip.




View Larger Map

Maine has 32 Maine State Parks and each one is unique in its own way. I have visited every park in the state of Maine over the years and Ferry Beach State Park is one of my favorites. I like this park because it is on the beach and is not as busy as some of the more popular beaches in the area like Old Orchard beach just a couple of miles to the north and the beaches in Wells and Ogunquit to the south.

Ferry Beach State Park is just east of Biddeford and is located in Saco. It features unique attractions that cannot be found in other parks in the area. Ferry Beach State Park gives wildlife lovers a unique chance to see a grove of Tupelo, better known as black gum, trees. These trees are extremely rare at this latitude and prove to be a real treat for anyone visiting the Northeast. This state park features a large amount of history that is often overlooked by the average person.

Before highways were common in the area, beaches were the safest and easiest means of transportation. Ferry Beach State Park received its name because of the ferry crossing located within Saco River that served beach travelers during the previous decades.

Ferry Beach State Park is well-known as a natural wildlife area with an excellent beach, nature trails, and even a guided, and very educational, nature walk. The miles of white-sand beaches will always be the most well-known aspect of Ferry Beach State, but there is much more. Just behind these beaches are frail sand dunes, a protected swamp-area, and a large number of forested trails. The sand dunes are a unique example of how their unique “dune-grass” protects them from erosion. This happens because the roots run so deep, that they hold the dune in place like glue. However, the grasses are easily destroyed by simply walking over them. Over the years, these dunes have proved to be immensely important in saving the forest areas from devastating ocean waves.

The forest has become well-known for birders aimed at catching a glimpse of the unique nesting birds in the area. Even the swampy area has gained popularity because it leads to a fantastic forest full of oak, pine, and even hemlock. The trails that run through Ferry Beach State Park, are perfect for any level of hiker. They can combine into different loops to make the trails as long or short as people want and run through the gambit of habitats available in the area.

Coming soon is a new Nature Center. It is aimed at expanding and improving the parks already popular natural history programs. It will be next to the parking lot and serve as the home-base for guided and self-guided trips throughout Ferry Beach State Park. It will also highlight some of the favorite visitor pastimes such as clamming, fishing, and hiking. It is projected to break ground in 2010, so keep an eye out for the perfect addition to such a unique and awe-inspiring environment



View Larger Map

Damariscotta Lake State Park is located in Damariscotta Maine near Maine State Route 32, in Jefferson County. While the park is comparatively small in size, just 17 acres, it offers everything you need including picnicking, boating, swimming, hiking, and a wide variety of wildlife. It features Damariscotta Lake, which is at the northern tip of Damariscotta Lake State Park. Make sure that you show up early, because parking is limited and can fill up quickly during a sunny summer afternoon.

Damariscotta Lake is a beautiful lake that is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. You can even spot a few people kayaking in the morning sun. The lake itself is over 14 miles long and hides a treasure trove of wildlife. The fishing has historically been some of the best in the area and keeps fisherman coming back day after day, year after year. The water can get warm enough in the summer months for droves of swimmers to show up on a daily basis. The sandy beach always has a lifeguard on duty during the peak months.

The beach has been designed with a wide variety of visitors in mind. There are group-use shelters for large groups of friends or family get-togethers. The shelter is accompanied by a large activity field that is perfect for any type of group game or event. There are plenty of restrooms, fresh water fountains, public grills and picnic tables. There is even a small playground for smaller children to enjoy, while parents relax on the beach. While the beach is the feature that most people recognize, don't underestimate the beauty of the surrounding wooded area and the wildlife within.

Damariscotta Lake State Park is a day-only facility, so don't plan on spending the night. It is normally open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, however many fisherman show up year round. In the winter, the temperature drops down to only an 18 degrees Fahrenheit average. During the summer months, visitors should expect an average of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Fortunately, the Mid Coast Region will only average 38 inches or less of precipitation every year.

Damariscotta Lake State Park is loved by many for its simplicity. It is a rare of combination of simplicity and built in luxury. This makes it the perfect destination for families, groups of friends, and lone fisherman alike. Given the chance to experience Damariscotta Lake State Park is something that everyone should enjoy at least once.


View Larger Map

Maine is home to a lot of great state parks and private reserves, from the famed Acadia National Park, to the exceptional Camden Hills State Park, to the many lake, river and oceanfront parks and preserves. There are 436,064 acres of state and national park lands, including Acadia National Park and the 90-mile Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

In terms of actual numbers, the State of Maine has 32 state parks and one National Park (Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor). All of the state parks in Maine are managed and maintained by the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands to blend in with their local natural habitat whether that be the seashore, mountains or lakes.

One thing I have found is that not everyone knows about our state parks so I have put together a short list of my favorite state parks to help visitors find the more accessible parks when visiting Maine on vacation.

Explore as many Maine State Parks as you can. You will find each state park unique, and they all offer affordable family fun for everyone.

Here is my personal list of my favorite Maine State Parks:

• Birch Point State Park, Owls Head, Maine
• Bradbury Mountain State Park, Pownal, Maine
• Camden Hills State Park, Camden, Maine
• Crescent Beach State Park, Cape Elizabeth, Maine
• Damariscotta Lake State Park, Damariscotta, Maine
• Ferry Beach State Park, Saco, Maine
• Lake St. George State Park, Liberty, Maine
• Moose Point State Park, Searsport, Maine
  
• Owls Head State Park, Owls Head, Maine
  
• Popham Beach State Park, Phippsburg, Maine
• Reid State Park, Georgetown, Maine
  
• Scarborough Beach State Park, Scarborough, Maine
  
• Sebago Lake State Park
• Swan Lake State Park
• Two Lights State Park
• Warren Island State Park
• Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park

Crescent Beach State Park has been a favorite destination for beach lovers since 1966. It is easy to find, lying only 8 miles south of Portland within Cape Elizabeth. It is well known as a “classic” saltwater beach park. It has sand dunes, fantastic ocean breezes, gulls, and even a docking spot for avid boaters. It is best known for the mile-long beach, which is crescent shaped, that is perfect for sitting in the sun, swimming or boating. Just steps from the beach are great trails that can help you get in touch with nature almost instantly. Even in the off-season when the park is closed to vehicles, many people still enjoy hiking or cross-country skiing.

Getting settled in is never a problem for visitors, as the 700-spot parking lot always has a free space. The beach has amenities that are rarely found in a Maine state park, like snack bars with the standards: hot dogs, hamburgers, and even ice cream. To make it perfect for the public, the beach is handicap accessible because it features a beautifully constructed boardwalk that crosses grassy dunes and even wheelchairs specifically designed for beaches.

If you want to go for a swim, then Crescent Beach State Park is a great place to be. With the combination of Richmond Island and a breakwater, the surf is always mild and the drop-off is fairly gradual. This makes swimming easy, even for small children. For the safety-concerned, lifeguards can be found every day during the summer until 6 pm. They rest on the soft, white-sand beaches and can even keep an eye of kids and adults who are exploring the tidal pools on the western end of park.

Crescent Beach State Park was designed with summer in mind. Throughout the sandy dunes are picnic areas featuring outdoor grills and well-maintained tables and benches. There is even a boat launch conveniently located for a day on the water. The area is great for all types of boaters, even salt water kayaking. Whether you just want to spend the day rocking in calm ocean waters, skiing, or even fishing, there is a spot available for you. There is even a gorgeous lighthouse that draws in fans from around the country.

Crescent Beach State Park has proven itself to a great spot for families and friends to spend a day relaxing on the beach, in the water, or among the trails that twist and turn through a beautiful scene filled with wildlife.


View Larger Map

Camden Hills State Park has become on of the most popular spots in all of Maine, and for good reason. There are great views and something to satisfy everyone. The park spans over 5,500 acres and is great for one day stays or week long extravaganzas. The campgrounds includes 112 campgrounds with excellent picnic areas, hot showers, and even modern restrooms. The most amazing aspect of Camden Hills State Park is that it is only moments from the popular shopping attractions in Camden, Maine. Yet, after only a few steps into the park, you are immersed in nature.

If you love to hike, then you love Camden Hills State Park. It boasts over 30 miles of hiking trails, the most popular leading to top of Mt. Battie. From here, viewers get a sweeping panoramic view of Camden and Penobscot Bay as well as the surrounding islands. If the day is clear enough, hikers can see Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park. Even casual hikers love the trail that leads to the top of Mt. Megunticook, the highest peak on the mainland. All of the trails are known for being very well-maintained, however can be difficult to follow if hikers are not paying attention as the trails often overlap or merge together. The area known as “Ocean View” is awe inspiring and has long been a favorite destination to locals.

If hiking is not your forte, there is no need to fret. Camden Hills State Park is also known for birdwatching, picnicking, boating, kayaking, camping, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, hunting, off-road biking, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and just sitting and watching the wildlife.

At the right time of year, Ducktrap River has some of the best whitewater in area for kayaking fans. There are also some great whitewater if you can find your way to Goose River as well. You can also find calmer waters in the lakes and rivers of Camden Hills State Park for a relaxing day.

As a wildlife lover, hikers and walkers are always impressed. Camden Hills State Park has more birds for birdwatchers than almost any other area in the Northwest. It also features a vast number of aquatic life and mammals of all sizes. This diversity makes photography a real treat for amateurs and professional alike. It doesn't matter if you want a picture of a squirrel or deer in their natural setting or a wide-view or the forest or coastline from the top of Mt. Battie, Camden Hills State Park has the answer.


View Larger Map

Bradbury Mountain State Park is one of only five original state parks in the state of Maine. It is hard to miss because it is right off of Route 9 between Portland and Lewiston-Auburn and encompasses over 800 acres of beautifully forested land. It is known to have been sculpted out of the land by a giant glacier, which is credited with the forests unique and natural features, most notably Bradbury Mountain. It is also the only state park that is in the southern part of Maine. It has all of the attractions that any outdoor enthusiast could want.

If you are in search of reconnecting with nature and enjoying wildlife, then you are in luck. There are a wide variety of wildlife to fit everyone's style. If you in love with watching birds, then this the one of the best parks in southern Maine. It features hawks and eagles year-round, and is a common stop for a range of birds as they migrate either north or south. It is also home for a number of mammals both small and large. With natural and man-made homes, the wildlife will flourish as long as the park exists. Some of the most noted wildlife include wild turkeys and native moose, deer, and fox.

If you are looking to have a more active day, then you have a number of options at your disposal. Year-round, you can take advantage of a number of trails and dense forests. You can hike, cross-country ski, and go snowmobiling depending on the time of year. There is a small trail, less than half a mile, that circles the summit of Mount Bradbury and gives visitors a chance to scan for miles in any direction. The view is breathtaking to say the least. You can even bring your horses and ride the trails or just wander through the wilderness. The most popular trails include: Knight Woods, Link& Snowmobile, Fox Run, Ginn, Ragan, Lanzo, Northern Loop, Tote Road, and Boundary.

If you are looking to spend an extended period of time outdoors, then Bradbury Mountain State Park is always an excellent choice. It features over 40 spots for camping and even has spots for RVs. The camping spots are rarely completely filled to capacity, which means that campers can often find spots without noisy neighbors. There are many amenities including covered and uncovered picnic tables, playgrounds, and even a ball field. If you are looking to spend a few hours or a weekend in the wilderness, just enjoying nature, then Bradbury Mountain State Park should be in your plans.


View Larger Map

Birch Point State Park is tucked away in Maine's mid-coastal region. Just finding it can be an adventure all its own. It is south of Ash Point in Owls Head, Maine and can be found on a tiny peninsula bordering Mussel Ridge Channel. It may be hard to find, but is well worth the search. Once you find Birch Point State Park, you will be privy to some of the best scenery in the entire mid-coastal region. It features a crescent-shaped beach that is focused between two extremely rocky areas in the Mussel Ridge Channel. From here, you will get to see of all of the islands that are scattered alongside Penobscot Bay.

This area is for day use only, so there is no need to pack your overnight camping gear. However, daytime goers often enjoy a wide variety of activities. It is a popular place to go for a quick swim in the often chilly, but invigorating waters. However, you always need to be careful because there are no lifeguards in the area. It is also a popular spot for those that enjoy the simple pleasure of shore-fishing. It is also a great spot for a relaxing picnic or just sitting an watching the native wildlife. It has become a very popular sanctuary for photographers and has been the focus of hundreds to thousands of photos over the years.

The park is small compared to others in the region, but there is no charge for you to drop by for a few hours, or an entire day. This small park is well known by locals because it is off of the beaten bath. Even if you know where it is, you need to keep a sharp eye. The entrance to the park is can only be accessed by driving through an open gate, tucked away at the end of a dirt road. Seconds after you pass through the gate, you will be hit with a smooth, sandy beach with only a limited number of amenities including a few outhouses and picnic tables. It is the perfect setting for anyone looking to get away from it all and spend a day in peaceful serenity. Most people will just walk the beach and enjoy the gentle surf. Check out beautiful enclaves, smooth bedrock, and dunes of cobbles. Others will just sit on the beach wait for nature to come to them. With the vast amount of wildlife waiting in the wings, it never takes long.


View Larger Map

WGXJUZCVS4PV