8 Lesser-Known State Parks In Maine That Will Absolutely Amaze You
There’s no shortage of outdoor fun to be had in Maine. While it’s easy to revisit the same places over and over again, this spring we recommend trying something new. Travel further than the towns nearby to discover what Maine has to offer. Heading to these lesser-known state parks in Maine also means fewer crowds, but lots of fun!
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Moose Point was first developed as a dairy farm by the Carver family in 1859. Most of the leftover buildings burned down in 1927, but Clifford Carver and his relatives offered the land to the State of Maine as a park in 1951. It opened in 1963 and offers wooded hiking as well as waterfront views.
This park is close to those of you who live near Lewiston and Auburn. It features a 1,000-foot sand beach for summer swimming in Lower Range Pond. This is a great choice for families. Get away from the water and enjoy the 750 acres for hiking and walking.
Want to be near Bar Harbor, but not looking to be surrounded by other people? Check out Lamoine State Park, which is near Acadia National Park, but doesn't have nearly as many annual visitors. A trip here means access to Frenchman's Bay, campground facilities, and boat launching ramps.
This is the park for people who love Maine history. Fort McClary was used to protect the harbor of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Today, the Fort and the surrounding structures are owned and operated by the State of Maine as Fort McClary State Historic Site.
Aroostook State Park is up in The County, but worth the drive for those of you that make southern Maine home. This park is the very first in state park in Maine, lending it some fun historical cred. It's a great place to start your explorations of the North Woods. The park is nearly 800 acres and offers access to lakes, streams, and hiking trails.
Peaks-Kenny State Park is wonderfully underappreciated, making it a place where you won't be packed in by crowds compared to other parks in the Maine system. You'll find it on the shores of Sebec Lake. Campers enjoy the peaceful, family-oriented campground with 56 sites that are tucked away in wooded areas to promote privacy.
Birch Point State Park is a more secluded spot in Owls Head. If you're in search a park where you're likely to be without other visitors, this is the one for you! Views over Penobscot Bay make it perfectly picturesque and there are lots of activities. Swimming, fishing, and hiking are all popular past times here.
A popular destination for families, this is great for those who love to swim AND explore during one fun day out. The location right on the banks of Pleasant Pond in Richmond offers boating, fishing and general splish-splashing around!
One of our favorite state parks is Rangeley Lake State Park in Franklin Country. Learn more about it, including how to get there, but clicking here.
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Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
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