Maine State Park Update + 10 Parks to Explore This Summer

June 26, 2025

Dear Maine State Parks Friends and Fellow Outdoors Enthusiasts,

We're writing with a quick update and some great travel tips. First, the update: Cobscook Bay and Aroostook State Park campgrounds remain temporarily closed for major improvements. Crews are building modern, accessible bathroom facilities and upgrading underground water and utility systems, part of our ongoing commitment to offering safe, high-quality outdoor experiences. We do not have a re-open date to share and want to apologize if this construction work has thrown a curveball into your camping season.

However, while these parks are closed, there are plenty of alternatives to explore. In fact, National Geographic just released a timely tips list highlighting 10 of the best Maine State Parks to visit, and we're thrilled to share a few highlights with you:

For coastal getaways:

  • Crescent Beach State Park (Cape Elizabeth) is a favorite for families, with gentle surf and a beach wheelchair available.
  • Birch Point State Park (Owls Head) offers a quiet white-sand cove without the crowds.
  • Quoddy Head State Park (Lubec) is a must-see for early risers, lighthouse lovers, and wildlife watchers.

For inland adventures:

  • Grafton Notch State Park (Newry) is perfect for autumn day hikes and waterfalls.
  • Allagash Wilderness Waterway (via North Maine Woods Checkpoints) offers epic canoeing in a wild, historic setting.
  • Peaks-Kenney State Park (Dover-Foxcroft) boasts peaceful lake camping and views of Borestone Mountain.

Support the Parks and Lands You Love

If you're wild about Maine State Parks, consider making a gift to support them. Your donation to "Wild About Maine State Parks" helps protect what you love, whether that's building new trails, preserving habitats, improving accessibility, or expanding outdoor education programs. You can choose to give to your favorite park or help fund the greatest needs across all State Parks and Public Lands. Learn more and donate.

Whether you're hiking Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park, paddling around Warren Island (Islesboro), or relaxing at Lamoine's (Lamoine) oceanfront campground, Maine State Parks offer truly special experiences year-round.

If youre looking to plan an adventure, here are some helpful resources:

Thank you for being part of the Maine State Parks community. We'll be sure to let you know when Cobscook and Aroostook reopen with their new features. Until then, enjoy discovering a new favorite place.

See you on the trail,

Andy Cutko
Director, Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands
Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
www.parksandlands.com