Hidden Gems & Popular Favorites: Our Go-To State Parks in Maine for Outdoor Adventures
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Maine may be best known for Acadia National Park, but beyond its famous coastline, the state is home to over 30 incredible state parks – each with its own unique charm and adventure waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re hiking through dense forests, biking along scenic trails, or lounging by a peaceful lake, these parks offer something for everyone.
Some parks boast oceanfront views perfect for a salty breeze and a summer swim, while others take you deep into the mountains, where the views stretch for miles.
Wildlife watchers will love spotting eagles, moose, and songbirds, while winter adventurers can find trails perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
From rugged cliffs to quiet inland hideaways, these state parks showcase Maine’s natural beauty far beyond its famous beaches. And, while we’d love to say visit them all, if you’re looking for the best of the best, these are the ones we can’t get enough of!
Aroostook State Park | Presque Isle
Aroostook State Park in Presque Isle is the best state park in Maine for those looking for challenging hiking trails. Though the trails are short, they are very steep and considered difficult terrain.
This is the perfect spot for an avid hiker who is looking for a half-day hiking trip. Once hikers reach the summits of the North and South Peaks, they get stunning views of the park.
Winter sports enthusiasts love Aroostook State Park for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and even ice skating at the park’s lake. And, there is a small, rustic campground with 30 sites for those wishing to stay within the park and enjoy an overnight stay.
Baxter State Park | Piscataquis County
Located in the Maine Highlands in the town of Millinocket, Baxter State Park is a beautiful, well-maintained park and is home to Maine’s highest mountain — Mount Katahdin at 5,268 feet.
There’s so much to explore with over 220 miles of hiking trails and over 40 mountain peaks to scramble up. There are trails for all abilities — from very challenging all-day hikes of Katahdin to shorter, easier two-hour hikes around ponds and more level terrain.
Note: This Maine state park is not overseen by the Maine Department of Conservation.
Aside from the trail network, visitors can enjoy many picnic areas, kayaking, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The mountains offer breathtaking views of New England, and hikers have been known to run into wildlife such as moose, bears, and deer.
If you’re looking to camp in the state park, Baxter State Park has a no-frills campground with natural water sources. Bring your camping gear, and get ready to rough it as there are no supplies to purchase and no showers or toilets — just outhouses.
This type of campground is great for those who enjoy rustic camping. There are cabins, bunkhouses, lean-tos, and tent sites available to rent.
Related: Guide to The Best Hotels, Inns, and Lodging in Millinocket Maine
Quoddy Head State Park | Lubec
Lubec, Maine, known as the easternmost point of the United States, is home to Quoddy Head State Park, which is over 540 acres with 5 miles of trails. What makes this state park unique is its amazing wildlife-watching opportunities.
From the shores of the park, visitors might spot a whale, including minke, finback, or humpback. Or, visitors could catch a glimpse of shorebirds, sea ducks, or bald eagles. Bring a pair of binoculars to see these sea mammals and birds in detail.
For avid hikers, some trails pass by bogs and numerous species of plant life. The park even offers views of a nearby lighthouse — Quoddy Head Light.
Two Lights State Park | Cape Elizabeth
Two Lights State Park at Cape Elizabeth is a favorite among locals because of the stunning views of the coastline and Casco Bay’s island. It was appropriately named for the presence of twin lighthouses nearby, one of which is still functioning today.
The park is the ideal picnic spot because it has tables arranged so that visitors can enjoy a meal and the awesome ocean views. On-site there is a gift shop and full-service restaurant where visitors can eat fresh seafood.
Also, the park has easy trails that are family-friendly and rocky cliff walks for adventurers. And, visitors can take a walk on the rocky coastline where they can watch fishermen catching stripers or lobstermen hauling in their traps offshore.
Reid State Park | Georgetown
Reid State Park can be found in the MidCoast Maine town of Georgetown. This state park has been consistently ranked as one of the best in the area for surfing. Reid State Park has a refreshing saltwater beach featuring wide sands and giant dunes.
Be sure to bring your camera because you can see multiple Maine lighthouses from the park, including Seguin Island, making for great picture-taking opportunities. Or, see if you can spot piping plovers nesting amongst the dunes and grassy areas on the beach.
A few trails are great for shorter hikes as well. The Little River Trail is just under 2 miles away and is perfect for beginners. Or, try the Ski Loop Trail for a mountain biking trail or cross-country skiing.
Sebago Lake State Park | Naples
Sebago Lake State Park begins accepting camping reservations as early as February because it books up fast!
Note: This park is next to Point Sebago Resort, voted the #1 Family Friendly Resort in the Northeast. Visitors will also enjoy gorgeous views of the White Mountains and Sebago Lake.
The campground and state park offer a variety of activities to choose from including sandy beaches, hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking, as well as cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing in the winter.
Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park | South Berwick
Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park in South Berwick is a wonderful spot for hiking, exploring, and winter activities. This state park is located on the banks of the Salmon Falls River and brings visitors to the historic Hamilton House.
While traveling along the trails and river banks, visitors will feel a sense of peace trekking across the Wabanaki homelands.
This state park is gorgeous year-round — whether for hiking, cross-country skiing, or taking the dog on a walk. There are nice spots to stop along the way and reflect and even a playground for children to burn off some energy.
Birch Point State Park | Owls Head
Birch Point State Park is worth a visit – if you can find it, that is!
Located literally off the beaten path, this secluded hideaway in Owls Head is home to beautiful views of Penobscot Bay and surrounding islands. The park is popular for sunbathing, swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
Note: Unfortunately, the park is only open during the day and during the summer months so be sure to time your visit.
Bradbury Mountain State Park | Pownal
Bradbury Mountain State Park is one of Maine’s original five state parks and a great place to relax and enjoy the 800 acres of forest it has to offer.
Note: In the fall, Bradbury is home to migrating hawks and eagles.
Bradbury Mountain itself is a sight to see, with both flat and narrow paths that will accommodate any hiker. There are also several popular mountain biking trails.
Lily Bay State Park | Greenville
Lily Bay State Park, located at Moosehead Lake in Greenville, Maine, could be the most family-friendly of the parks on our list. It’s a great spot for water activities like fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. It has a boat launch located right in the park.
Children will love the playground and picnic area and will be delighted to spot rabbits, deer, squirrels, and native species of birds. Plus, there is a campground located within the park that is quite popular and includes nearly 100 camping sites.
Related: Guide to The Best Cabins, Inns, and Lodging in Greenville and Rockwood Maine on Moosehead Lake
Scarborough Beach State Park | Scarborough
Scarborough Beach State Park has one of the best swimming beaches in Maine due to its water temperatures that remain fairly warm throughout the prime summer months.
Visitors also enjoy hiking on a self-guided trail, fishing, and boating in the summer months. The “Shack” offers beachside food and daily rentals of chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards.
Note: This state park is not overseen by the Maine Department of Conservation.
Rangeley Lake State Park | Franklin
Rangeley Lake State Park is one of the most picturesque state parks, overlooking Maine’s lakes and mountains and surrounding 10 square miles of Rangeley Lake.
Wintertime attracts snowmobilers and snowshoers while the summer months bring some of the best salmon and trout fishing in Maine.
There are also many campsites located in Rangeley Park with plenty of amenities including boat launches and picnic areas.
Related: Guide to The Best Hotels, Inns, and Campgrounds in Rangeley and Saddleback Mountain Maine
Camden Hills State Park | Camden
If you love camping in state parks, Camden Hills State Park in Camden, Maine, is one of the best camping spots among the state parks. It offers year-round camping with amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, a playground, showers, bathrooms, and Wi-Fi.
Staying right in the park will give you more time to explore the miles of trails that range from easy to challenging. While visiting the park, take in the sweeping views of Penobscot Bay and Camden Harbor. These views are best seen from the summit of Mount Battie at 800 feet above sea level.
Camden Hills State Park is particularly popular amongst bird-watchers and bird-lovers, known as a retreat for migrating hawks and other bird species. It’s not uncommon to spot great blue herons, ospreys or even a bald eagle!
Popham Beach State Park | Phippsburg
Known as the busiest of the state parks that has a beach, Popham Beach State Park in Phippsburg attracts locals and tourists alike. The park has amenities that you wouldn’t find at many state parks, including bathhouses, showers, and grilling areas.
Visitors flock to Popham Beach for the beach to swim, sunbathe, beach comb, or bird watch. But, you can enjoy surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing too.
One of the neat features of Popham Beach is the number of sand bars that allow visitors to walk way out during low tide — keep your eye out for a starfish and other sea creatures! Fox Island is accessible by walking the sand bars during low tide as well.
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park | Freeport
If you’re looking to visit a state park but still want to be near local attractions like shopping and restaurants, Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park in Freeport, Maine, offers the best of both worlds.
Located a few miles from Freeport’s center, this state park will have you exploring nature for part of the day and enjoying modern amenities in Freeport the next.
At 230 acres, this relaxing retreat features activities such as clamming, kayaking, and boating. The park grounds’ mostly flat terrain makes it perfect for children or physically challenged visitors.
Wolfe’s Neck Woods features family-friendly walking trails, a small beach, picnic areas, and bird-watching opportunities. Visitors will cross through forests, marshes, and rocky shores.
Rangers at the park offer guided nature programs for an informative and fun look into Maine’s beautiful state parks.
Related: Ultimate Guide to Hotels, Inns, and Lodging in Freeport Maine
Discover These Incredible Outdoor Escapes in Maine
As you’ve likely gathered after reading this list, each Maine state park has its own unique features and highlights. From Downeast & Acadia to the MidCoast to the Southern Maine Coast, the best state parks are scattered throughout the state in every region.
They have hiking trails, great views, bird and wildlife sightings, and clean bodies of water. On your next trip to Maine, plan to visit one of these state parks and maybe even spend the night at one that has campsites.
More Scenic Getaways for Your Next Maine Outdoor Adventure
While these might be our favorite state parks, they aren’t the only ones you can visit in Maine. The Pine Tree State is home to more than 30 state parks, plus many other public lands that are worth exploring. Start planning your Maine vacation today!
| State Park | County | Town | Established | Water |
| Allagash Wilderness Waterway | Aroostook | |||
| Androscoggin Riverlands | Androscoggin | Turner | Androscoggin River | |
| Aroostook State Park | Aroostook | Presque Isle | 1938 | Echo Lake |
| Baxter State Park | Piscataquis | 1931 | ||
| Birch Point State Park | Knox | Owls Head | 1999 | Penobscot Bay |
| Bradbury Mountain State Park | Cumberland | Pownal | 1939 | |
| Camden Hills State Park | Knox, Waldo | Camden, Lincolnville | 1947 | |
| Cobscook Bay State Park | Washington | Edmunds Township | 1964 | Cobscook Bay |
| Crescent Beach State Park | Cumberland | Cape Elizabeth | 1966 | Atlantic Ocean |
| Damariscotta Lake State Park | Lincoln | Jefferson | 1970 | Damariscotta Lake |
| Ferry Beach State Park | York | Saco | Atlantic Ocean | |
| Fort Point State Park | Waldo | Stockton Springs | 1974 | Penobscot Bay |
| Grafton Notch State Park | Oxford | Grafton Township | 1963 | Bear River |
| Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park | Hancock | Brooksville | 1971 | Penobscot Bay |
| Lake St. George State Park | Waldo | Liberty Township | Lake St. George | |
| Lamoine State Park | Hancock | Lamoine | 1949 | Frenchman’s Bay |
| Lily Bay State Park | Piscataquis | Greenville | 1959 | Moosehead Lake |
| Mackworth Island State Park | Cumberland | Falmouth | 1946 | Casco Bay |
| Moose Point State Park | Waldo | Searsport | 1952 | Penobscot Bay |
| Mount Blue State Park | Franklin | Weld | 1955 | Webb Lake |
| Mount Kineo State Park | Piscataquis | Kineo Township | Moosehead Lake | |
| Owls Head Light State Park | Knox | Owls Head | Penobscot Bay | |
| Peacock Beach State Park | Sagadahoc | Richmond | Pleasant Pond | |
| Peaks-Kenny State Park | Piscataquis | Dover-Foxcroft | ||
| Penobscot River Corridor | Piscataquis | |||
| Popham Beach State Park | Sagadahoc | Phippsburg | Atlantic Ocean | |
| Quoddy Head State Park | Washington | Lubec | 1962 | Atlantic Ocean |
| Range Ponds State Park | Androscoggin | Poland | 1965 | Range Ponds |
| Rangeley Lake State Park | Franklin | Rangeley | ||
| Reid State Park | Sagadahoc | Georgetown | 1946 | Sheepscot Bay |
| Roque Bluffs State Park | Washington | Roque Bluffs | 1969 | Englishman Bay |
| Sebago Lake State Park | Cumberland | Naples, Casco | 1938 | Sebago Lake |
| Shackford Head State Park | Washington | Eastport | 1989 | Cobscook Bay |
| Swan Lake State Park | Waldo | Swanville | Swan Lake | |
| Two Lights State Park | Cumberland | Cape Elizabeth | 1961 | Casco Bay |
| Vaughan Woods State Park | York | South Berwick | 1949 | Salmon Falls River |
| Warren Island State Park | Waldo | Islesboro | 1959 | Penobscot Bay |
| Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park | Cumberland | Freeport | 1969 | Casco Bay |