let us do the work

Effortlessly plan your next adventure with AI
NatureBeaches, Lakes & Rivers

Soak Your Stress Away On The Beaches Of Maine’s Dodge Point Preserve

Dodge Point Preserve in Maine offers hiking trails and beaches perfect for swimming and enjoying nature.

Published Feb 10, 2022

Written by 

Cadence Summers

After a challenging hike, there is nothing better than soaking your cares away in cool, clear water. If you are looking for a place to literally immerse yourself in the beautiful Maine naturescape, look no further than Dodge Point Preserve. Located on the western shore of the Damariscotta River in Maine, Dodge Point Preserve offers more than 500 acres of woodland to explore and three different beaches perfect for swimming and soaking your stresses away.

Previously a tree farm, the lush forest offers hikers plenty of easy to moderate, pet-friendly trails that explore the history of the area. Take Old Farm Road to Shoreline Trail for the best river views and beach access.

A serene forest path surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery, inviting exploration and tranquility.
Tripadvisor/ worktotravel14

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maine/timber-old-farm-and-shore-loop/photos

A serene lakeside view with lush green trees, rocky shore, and clear blue sky with scattered clouds.
Sharon O'Neill/AllTrails

Sand Beach and Pebble beach are equally popular sites perfect for swimming, picnics, and birdwatching.

A serene shoreline with pebbles and rocks, bordered by lush green trees and calm water under a cloudy sky.
Tripadvisor/ worktotravel14

There are many calm coves along the waterway that are perfect for families with younger swimmers.

A serene river scene with calm water reflecting green trees along the shore under a clear blue sky.
Tripadvisor/ DonnaG2U

The Damariscotta River is subject to coastal tides. It is recommended that hikers and swimmers arrive at the preserve two hours before or after low tide to avoid a wet hike and for maximum beach access.

A serene lake scene with a large rock in the foreground, surrounded by trees under a clear blue sky.
All Trails/ Rota Knott

Dodge Point Preserve is a wonderful place in Maine to take a chill out, go for a swim, and enjoy some of the incredible nature of the Pine Tree State. Learn more about Dodge Point Preserve here and let us know in the comments which beach is your favorite!

Looking for more scenic hikes in Maine? Here are 12 of our favorite trails, one to tackle each month of the year!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Trips & Routes

The Instagrammable Roadside Attraction Is Worth the Drive From Dallas

Forget Paris; just a short drive from Dallas, Texas, is a whimsical Eiffel Tower worthy of your Instagram. Here’s what makes it worth the trip.

by Melanie Johnson
on Jul 21
Views of a replica of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas, with a large red cowboy hat on top.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

This Historic Brick Brownstone Is One of the Most Successful Airbnbs in Massachusetts

Step inside a historic Victorian brownstone overlooking Union Park in Boston’s sought-after South End. With three floors of living space and some of the city’s best restaurants, shops, and landmarks within walking distance, this Airbnb offers a memorable way to experience Boston.

by Megan Todaro
on Jul 21
The exterior of a brick building in Boston Massachusetts, where one of the most historic Airbnbs is.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

The 11 Most Spectacular Tree Tunnel Drives in America

Some roads exist just to get you somewhere else. These eleven don't, and that's exactly the point.

by Marisa Roman
on Jul 21
Cypress tree tunnel at Point Reyes, California, USA
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The 17 Most Charming Hidden Towns You’ve Never Heard Of Across the U.S.

Every state hides at least one town this good, and locals would rather keep it that way. We found 17 of them, from quiet river towns to desert outposts, so you can get there before everyone else does.

by Marisa Roman
on Jul 21
Dahlonega, Georgia aerial view, one of the most charming hidden towns in the U.S.
Trips & Routes
Travel Preparation & Advice

The Regional Airports Across America With the Most and Least Expensive Airfare (2026 Rankings)

Only In Your State used government data to compare average airfare costs for departing flights at more than 100 of America’s regional airports to find where travelers get the most bang for their buck.

by Josh Koebert
on Jul 21
ATI cargo Boeing 767 aircraft and air traffic control tower, SeaTac Seattle, USA