News

Untold Secret: Maine Public Lands

Explore the unbelievably beautiful Maine Public Lands. These are magical places in Maine—and they belong to all of us. Watch the new 21-minute short film, or in segments, to begin your virtual journey and plan for your visit to Maine Public Lands.

2020 Camping Reservation Dates for Call Center and Online Reservations

Sebago Lake State Park only - Monday, February 3, 2020 at 9:00 A.M. (Group Campsite Reservations also begin but are taken at each park directly by phone.)
All Others - Friday, February 7, 2020 at 9:00 A.M.
Campground Rates by location.

Look to the Stars - Telescopes and Star Gazing at Maine State Parks

In this Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund supported project, the Bureau of Parks and Lands is partnering with Cornerstones of Science, U-Maine's Emera Astronomy Center and Maine astronomers and trained naturalists to develop and offer star gazing programs at 12 Maine State Parks for campground guests and park visitors. The grant will be used to purchase twelve telescopes and star kits, two iPads with star apps, and astronomy books, plus hold a night sky training session and practical for park staff and program presenters at the Emera Astronomy Center.

These star gazing programs will connect visitors to Maine's natural heritage during a time when many fear to be outside, the nighttime. And, viewing the stars has the inherent ability to make people think outside themselves, to wonder about their place in the universe. The experience through this project will connect star gazers with the importance of the stars for navigation by humans and animals, and the importance of natural places, such as State parks, in helping preserve starscapes.

Look for these star gazing programs during the summer of Maine's bicentennial, 2020. They will be announced in the bureau newsletter and program calendar.

So Rememeber to Give When You Play!

When you choose to play the Maine Lottery, choose the ticket that gives back to Maine's natural heritage through the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund. Ask for it by name. The current ticket is Big Bucks. Thank you!

Parks & Historic Sites: Days & Hours

Parks may be visited year-round, from 9:00 a.m. to sunset daily unless otherwise posted. Fees are collected at the booth by staff or through self-service stations.

For current status:
Please call the park or historic site directly.

Park Amenities, such as water, restrooms and buildings, are shut down for the winter season as dictated by weather. Primitive toilets may be available at some locations.

Parking - Most parks and historic sites are not plowed during the winter due to seasonal staffing. A few parks are only plowed when the manager is on duty.

ATV Trails Update

View and subscribe to our list of ATV Trail Notices and check in with local clubs for the most up to date trail condition information.

Drone, Unmanned Aircraft (UAS) Policy

The general use of drones (UAS) is prohibited in Maine State Parks, Historic Sites, or DACF Boat Launches without direct oversight and guidance of an approved law enforcement agency or by the issue of a Special Activity Permit.