Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Pemaquid Point, with its stately lighthouse perched literally only feet
away from were the rock disappears beneath the sea, is a mandatory
stop.
Visits to Monhegan, Matinicus, North or Vinal Haven or Isleboro, all
reachable by mailboat or scheduled ferry, provide not just a brief journey
at sea but also a trip back to a simpler time when life was indeed slower
and the most important news didn't come from Washington or New York.
Inland from the shore all along the Mid-Coast tiny towns await discovery.
Many of the north-south state routes connecting US 1 along the coast
with Routes 17 and 3 in the interior wind through pastoral valleys past
sagging barns filled with antique treasures and farm stands overflowing
with fresh produce.
Camden Hills State Park, which boasts it is “where the mountains meet
the sea,” features some fine day hikes and great views from the auto road
that winds to the stone tower atop Mount Battie.
While the Mid-Coast may lack a major park or preserve such as Baxter or
Acadia, there are an equal number of places worth discovering and ex-
ploring.
Maine has one area code - 207
Parks, Preserves & Beaches
State Parks
Barrett's Cove Beach, Camden
. Located on Route 52 beneath
the towering granite of Maiden Cliff that is part of Camden Hills
State Park, this facility includes a freshwater swimming beach
on Megunticook Lake. There are restrooms, picnic tables, a play area and
a public boat launch ramp. Good parking.
Birch Point State Park, Owls Head
. Small, 56-acre state park located
on the shore of Owls Head. It has a 220-yard pocket beach near high
headland with freshwater marsh. No facilities, limited parking.
Swimming, fishing and picnicking. Open during summer season. Good
kayak launching spot.
Camden Hills State Park
. This 900-acre park off US 1 bills itself as be-
ing “where the mountains meet the sea.” The beauty of this area inspired
the poet Edna St. Vincent Millay. While trails and access do not actually
go from summits to the sea, it's pretty close. There is an extensive 30-mile
trail system with access from several state routes. Maps can be obtained
at the park office off US 1. There is a paved toll road to the top of 900-foot
