Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Maine
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Jennifer
Author
Maine is a state of unrivaled and underrated natural wonders, from its rugged coastline to its forested mountains. It’s also home to over 48 state parks and state natural areas that offer a variety of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway, a challenging hike, or a historic site, there’s a state park in Maine perfect for you! Across the state, you’ll discover hidden gems, stunning views, and unforgettable experiences for both hardy backpackers and beach-loungers alike. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the diverse state parks of Maine!
Most Popular State Parks In Maine
Our state’s abundant state parks are as wonderfully diverse as they are beautiful. From sandy beaches and rocky shores to forested mountains and scenic lakes, the most popular state parks in Maine perfectly combine our state’s spectacular natural beauty with abundant recreation, all while preserving the rich history and culture of Maine, from its colonial forts and lighthouses to its famous lobster and blueberry pies. These state parks continue to have the highest visitor numbers in the state year after year, and it’s easy to see why!
1. Popham Beach State Park
Popham Beach State Park, 711 Popham Rd, Phippsburg, ME 04562, USA
Popham Beach State Park is Maine's highest volume day-use state park, attracting visitors with its wide sandy beach, historic forts, and scenic views. And it's easy to see why locals and visitors alike love it so much! Popham Beach is full of things to do. In addition to all of the scenic beauty you could hope for, Popham Beach is also bursting with creature comforts to make your outing even better: fresh-water showers, bathhouses, grills, a trailer boat launch at the nearby Kennebec River, and a variety of amenities means you can transform that ho-hum beach day into a family outing to remember. At low tide, nearby Fox Island is easy to reach, and with a proper permit, beach horseback riding is allowed at certain times of the year.
2. Camden Hills State Park
Camden Hills State Park, 280 Belfast Rd, Camden, ME 04843, USA
Camden Hills State Park is a picturesque gem located in the heart of the charming, photogenic town of Camden. Renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views, the park has become a beloved destination due to its spectacular coastline, islands, and mountains - not to mention the park's year-round trail offerings! There are 30 miles of hiking trails here that cater to all levels of adventurers, including the popular Mount Battie Trail, which leads to a panoramic view of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. Camden Hills isn't just packed with things to do; over 100 camping sites allow visitors to make a full weekend out of their trip! Bonus: Autumn colors, and Independence Day typically boasts a spectacular fireworks display over the water.
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3. Reid State Park
Reid State Park, 375 Seguinland Rd, Georgetown, ME 04548, USA
At a glance, Reid State Park features two fine sand beaches (Half Mile and Mile Beach), a saltwater lagoon, hiking trails, and stunning views. But that's not all that makes Reid State Park so special! The beaches here are also essential nesting areas for endangered bird species and feeding areas for shorebirds. Visitors can also tour Reid's sand dunes - a true rarity in Maine's beach ecosystems. This coastal haven is not only a respite for nature enthusiasts but also holds historical significance. Once home to indigenous peoples, the park preserves traces of early settlements, providing a glimpse into Maine's rich past. From the top of Griffith Head, a rocky overlook above the park, visitors can enjoy sweeping seascapes and spot lighthouses on Seguin Island and beyond. Visitors can also see several islands in the distance, including Damariscove, Outer Head, and Southport.
Note that Reid State Park may close during storm season or modify access during unpredictable weather due to the park's delicate ecosystem. Always double-check for updates before heading out.
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Best State Parks In Maine To Camp
Embrace the rugged allure of Maine’s great outdoors by pitching a tent in one of our state’s expansive state parks, where every dawn reveals a new adventure (and stunning sunrises to boot!). Whether nestled beneath the canopy of ancient trees or along the rugged coastline, these state park campgrounds offer a front-row seat to some of Maine’s most stunning sights. Unplug, unwind, and let the beauty of Maine’s natural landscapes be your home under the stars when you camp at these picture-perfect state parks.
4. Baxter State Park
Baxter State Park, Millinocket, ME 04462, USA
Baxter State Park is a wild and rugged haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Dominated by the majestic Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine, the park is a treasure trove of stunning vistas and challenging hiking trails. But what also sets Baxter State Park apart is its diverse camping opportunities, from backcountry sites to developed campgrounds. Whether you seek the solitude of a remote and primitive site or the convenience of a more developed campground, the park provides a unique experience for every style of camper. But we could easily add this to our list of best state parks for camping in Maine; after a restful night of sleep here, you'll have over 200 miles of trails to explore!
5. Cobscook Bay State Park
Cobscook Bay State Park, 40 S Edmunds Rd, Dennysville, ME 04628, USA
Cobscook Bay State Park in Edmunds beckons with its coastal charm and unique tidal experiences along the shores of Cobscook Bay. This park is located on the coast of DownEast Maine, where the tides can vary by a whopping 28 feet. Things to do at Cobscook Bay State Park include kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking, in addition to stellar camping. The park has over 100 campsites, some of which are right on the water. In fact, much of this park's wow factor lies in the breathtaking coastal views that surround the park, so whether or not you nab a waterfront site, you're guaranteed to wake up and fall asleep to a phenomenal view.
6. Peaks-Kenny State Park
Peaks-Kenny State Park, 401 State Park Rd, Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426, USA
Peaks-Kenny State Park offers a delightful camping experience, thanks in part to its picturesque setting on Sebec Lake. The stunning backdrop of Borestone Mountain adds even more grandeur to your overnight stay. For camping enthusiasts, Peaks-Kenny State Park is home to around 56 well-equipped and clean campsites, many with proximity to the beach. With additional access to hiking trails, Peaks-Kenny State Park is an ideal destination for those seeking a restful camping retreat nestled in the natural wonders of Maine.
Best State Parks In Maine To RV
Hit the open road and let the pine-scented breezes of Maine guide your RV adventure this season. With its diverse landscapes and coastal wonders, Maine is a paradise for road trippers seeking the perfect blend of nature and comfort. From the towering peaks of Acadia National Park to the tranquil lakeshores of Moosehead Lake, each twist and turn of the state’s winding, rocky-edged roads unveils a new postcard-worthy scene. Get ready to roll into a world where the destination and journey are both spectacular! These state parks offer RV campers front-row seats to sights that are often reserved just for those who rough it.
7. Lily Bay State Park
Lily Bay State Park, 425 Lily Bay Rd, Beaver Cove, ME 04441, USA
Lily Bay State Park in Beaver Cove is a nature lover's dream, located on the scenic shores of the massive Moosehead Lake. Camping enthusiasts will find an idyllic retreat at Lily Bay, with over 90 camping spaces to choose from, including RV sites, many of which offer stunning lake views. things to do at Lily Bay State Park (in addition to catching breathtaking sunsets over the water) include fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking in the regular season. Winter activities are pretty epic as well; visitors can cross-country ski the groomed trails, snowshoe, or even access the lake via snowmobile.
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8. Sebago Lake State Park
Sebago Lake State Park, Naples, ME 04055, USA
Sebago Lake State Park is located on the north shore of Sebago Lake in the towns of Naples and Casco. The park offers a range of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, but the RV sites are definitely top-notch! The park has 90 campsites with water and electric hookups out of the park's total 250, which are dispersed between two campgrounds, Naples Beach and Witch Cove, each with beaches and boat ramps. In addition to phenomenal camping (complete with all of the amenities), the park has a number of trails that meander through diverse forest types and woodland cover as well as a stretch along the Songo River and a portion of the north shore of Sebago Lake. Things to do at Sebago Lake State Park include canoeing, cross-country skiing, sports fishing, camping, hiking, snowshoeing, and roadway biking. Uniquely, visitors will also find a nature center as well.
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9. Rangeley Lake State Park
Rangeley Lake State Park, 1 State Park Rd, Rangeley, ME 04970, USA
Rangeley Lake State Park encompasses 869 acres in the heart of Maine’s Western Mountains and offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, camping, wildlife watching, photography, and winter sports. The Rangeley Lake’s cool, clear waters stretch nine miles and support world-famous populations of landlocked salmon and trout, and with multiple boat launches and such a massive expanse of water to explore, Rangeley Lake is THE place to load up the RV with your best fishing gear or hook up the toy hauler for some much-needed speedboating! The campground at Rangeley Lake State Park has 50 well-spaced sites close to the lakeshore, where a beach offers commanding views of Saddleback Mountain. But getting out on the water is just the start. The park also has a children’s play area, hiking trails, and modern restrooms with hot showers. Visitors can also access the recreation area’s many trails for exciting activities such as four-wheeling and snowmobiling - there are endless things to do at Rangeley Lake!
Best State Parks In Maine For Hiking
From the rugged wilderness of Baxter State Park to iconic Acadia National Park trails, Maine’s best hiking trails are often bucket list adventures, leading hikers through a tapestry of natural wonders. Fortunately, many of these trails are also easily accessible from Maine’s state parks! Whether you’re chasing panoramic views from granite peaks or exploring hidden coastal gems, each rugged trek leads somewhere phenomenal. That said, these gorgeous state parks boast a little extra something something when it comes to hiking.
10. Aroostook State Park
Aroostook State Park, 87 State Park Rd, Presque Isle, ME 04769, USA
Aroostook State Park is both Maine's original and northernmost state park, so with that distinction, you know there must be some special things happening here! The park stretches around 800 acres, and includes the twin peaks of Quaggy Jo Mountain and shore frontage on Echo Lake. While the park’s most famous trail could be considered the Quaggy Jo Mountain Trail (a short and steep 3-mile loop that offers stunning views of the surrounding forests, lakes, and fields of the county), there are plenty more hikes to discover and things to do at Aroostook! The park also has a 12-mile stretch of the Aroostook River Trail that is ideal for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. This lush park is true, remote wilderness, which means wildlife spotting is phenomenal and services nonexistent. Note that bears, lynx, moose, beaver, and even bald eagles are prevalent in the park, so hikers should be both alert and prepared.
11. Grafton Notch State Park
Grafton Notch State Park, Newry, ME 04261, USA
Grafton Notch State Park is beautifully located between the mountain pass that slices between two neighboring ranges: Old Speck Mountain and Baldpate Mountain. While there are a LOT of things to love here, the park is particularly known for its impressive variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, as well as lead to numerous natural wonders and iconic viewpoints. Some of the Grafton Notch's most famous trails include the Old Speck Mountain Trail, Table Rock Trail Loop, and Eyebrow Loop Trail, which offer breathtaking views of Old Speck, The Eyebrow, and Grafton Notch. Hikers will also encounter stunning overlooks, and multiple waterfalls; specifically, the park’s mountain scenery includes Screw Auger and Mother Walker waterfalls as well as Moose Cave. As if that wasn't enough, the park also has a 12-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail that is rugged and challenging, but worth the effort! In addition to hiking, things to do in Grafton Notch State Park include fishing, hunting, picnicking, and camping. Whatever your forte, Grafton Notch is a must-visit for hiking and nature enthusiasts!
12. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, 426 Wolfe's Neck Rd, Freeport, ME 04032, USA
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is a serene and much-loved park located on beautiful Casco Bay on the southeastern side of Freeport. The park offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels and offer stunning views of the bay and the Harraseeket River, like the Harraseeket and White Pines Trail Loop and Old Woods Road. But what really sets the hiking at Wolfe's Neck Woods apart is the beautiful variety of ecosystems and trail terrains found throughout the park, including climax white pine and hemlock forests, a salt marsh estuary, and the rocky shorelines of Casco Bay. In addition to hitting the trails, fishing, hunting, picnicking, and camping are just a few of the things to do at Wolfe's Neck Woods!
Little-Known State Parks In Maine
Escape the crowds and discover Maine’s hidden treasures! Some of Maine’s prettiest state parks are actually its hidden gems, which invite intrepid explorers to witness nature’s raw grandeur without the hustle. These lesser-visited state parks whisper tales of solitude and untouched beauty far off the beaten path. From serene lakeshores and untouched woodlands to coastal enclaves, these little-known escapes offer a quiet retreat to those looking for solitude and rejuvenation in Maine’s great wilds.
13. Little Concord Pond State Park
Little Concord Pond State Park Trailhead, Redding Rd, Woodstock, ME 04219, USA
Little Concord Pond is an unexpectedly remote, picturesque pond located in the Western Mountains south of Rumford. There is no development on the pond, but the 64-acre preserve is picturesque, to say the least! A short walk off of Shagg Pond Road brings you to the deep, landlocked pond that the park is named for, which is ideal for trout fishing. Or, for a more strenuous hike, the trail continues up Bald Mountain via the Bald Mountain-Little Concord Pond Parcel Trail.
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14. Shackford Head State Park
Shackford Head State Park, Eastport, ME 04631, USA
Shackford Head State Park, situated in Eastport, is a coastal haven boasting captivating views of the Bay of Fundy, blissfully hidden away on Moose Island and located on the opposite side of Swan Lake from Swan Lake State Park. The park's incredible natural beauty starts with its dramatic cliffs, diverse ecosystems, and the opportunity to witness stunning sunsets over the water. But it doesn't stop there! The park also features a number of hiking trails leading to scenic overlooks, so photographers and hikers will all find plenty to appreciate. Other things to do at Shackford Head State Park include fishing, swimming, canoeing, and beach-lounging.
15. Swan Lake State Park
Swan Lake State Park, Swanville, ME 04915, USA
Swan Lake State Park is a petite, quiet gem tucked away at the north end of three mile-long Swan Lake in Swanville. Like something straight out of a fairytale, the lush grounds of the park boast rich and varied ecosystems, plus a fine gravel beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing in the warm summer months. Swan Lake is also packed with fish, so things to do at Swan Lake State Park include fishing, swimming, canoeing, and picnicking. Bonus for families: a playground, restrooms, and even changing rooms. Gorgeous, mature oak trees run along the perimeter of the beach, offering plenty of shade on those extra toasty summer days.
Maine is a state that offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or inspiration. Our state parks are a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities. From the rugged mountains of Baxter or the rocky peaks of Katahdin to the sandy beaches of Bradbury Mountain State Park, you can find your perfect getaway in one of Maine’s 48 state parks and historic sites. No matter what season you visit, you’ll be amazed by the scenery, wildlife, and activities that await you.
Craving even more state beauty? Mount Blue State Park has plenty of wonderful hiking trails!
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