As promised, although I dont think I actually did... but here are my favorite Maine State Parks and Historical Sites. I think Im going to try and rank them... we shall see.
This may have gotten on the list because it was the final stamp we needed. Not many people are going camping up in Northern Maine, with that being said, it makes for a relaxing and quiet destination.
Why I Love It: Its secluded, has large camp sites, plenty of showers, a entertainment/game room, pond, and some really wardens.
Old Orchard Beach is a very popular and, in my opinion, overly hyped beach. Its often crowded in the summer, dirty, and has barely any parking. Crescent State Beach is another popular beach for families. However, my favorite beach is Ferry Beach in Saco. Its about a 15 minute drive south from Old Orchard and it is well worth the extra minutes.
hiking trails. From tall falls, to gorges, to step falls; there are so many to discover. Hiking trails for all abilities. I suggest going right after it rains.
One thing Dave and I miss since being in California, is the ability to swim in fresh water. Damariscotta was our go to destination on a hot summer day. It has a nice long beach on the lake, even a spot for dogs. Even though it would look busy in the parking lot, it seldom seemed like it when you got towards the water. It stays shallow for a very long distance, which is great for kids.
We liked it because we could swim further out, be away from families, and still be able to touch the bottom. Since it is pretty shallow, the water isnt too cold. They also have grills and picnic tables, so bring a lunch!
I could write a whole separate post about our adventure to Warren Island. It is by far, the hardest State Park to get to. It is still, one of our favorite dates together. On the island there isnt too much to do. The warden lives on the island, and when we were there we were the only ones. He gave us a tour, and a bit of history about the place. Warren island is tiny. There is a hiking trail of 1 mile which does a full loop around. However, why it made the list, was the adventure on how to get there.
If you have a family, this is a great destination! There are Kayaks, Canoes, Hiking, Badminton, and lots of other activities. You can go hiking on Mount Blue, or drive up to Rangeley for a day out. The camp spots are a bit close together, but still secluded. I love the giant sinks to wash dishes, and there are plenty of showers. My only con... the swimming is very cold!
Need a good day trip? Colonial Pemaquid is our favorite for the historical aspect of this location. Its history is displayed in its museum. There are several landmarks on the property, and a lovely view of the coast. From the picnic tables, lush lawn, and beautiful scenery its a great place to spend the day. If you want to make a full day of State Parking, Fort Popham, Popham Beach, and Reid State Park are all close by!
The best for year round entertainment! Weve been to Wolfes Neck several times, at all times of year, and it has never disappointed. Its right off a peninsula near Freeport. Wolfes Neck has beautiful scenery of the coast; however its the hiking trails which makes this a great place to go. Accessible through out the whole year, it has trails for all abilities. We used our snowshoes in the winter, and it was so much fun. LL Bean often hosts events there; in the winter they provide hot chocolate, and
What a cool place! There is so much to explore at Fort Knox. We stumbled across a tour which was starting, and we loved it. So much history, and a great place to go for the day. In the same parking lot is the Penobscot Narrows Bridge. We were surprised to find out its the tallest bridge in the western hemisphere! Not for those who are scared of heights! Its only an extra $3 a person to take the elevator up. It is well worth it!
This state park deserves the #1 spot. There are a lot of great things going for it.
