State and Local Parks

The northernmost of all Maine state parks is set alongside Echo Lake. 577 acres offering hiking and cross-country ski trails, fishing, swimming areas and picnicking. Boating and canoeing are permitted in the lake. Public campgrounds are available for a fee. Reservations are suggested. - Park Map (PDF) - Campground Maps

A wilderness of more than 200,000 acres, Baxter State Park is a hiking and fishing paradise. Within the park borders are 46 mountains, 175 miles of hiking trails, and 10 public campgrounds. Ample fishing and canoeing is available in lakes and streams, and regulated hunting is permitted. Baxter is also the northern end of the Appalachian Trail. Wintertime offers cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing, winter hiking, and limited snowmobiling.
Season & Hours: Open year-round - In the summer daily 8am - 4pm, in the winter M-F 8am - 4pm.

Swan Island in the Kennebec River - a state wildlife management area - has unique river, forest and meadow habitats for eagles, white-tailed deer, songbirds and wild turkeys. The island has hiking and mountain biking trails, an overnight campground, and spectacular scenery. Kayak and mountain bike rentals are available. Ferry service from Richmond town dock is provided. Check the website for admission and camping fees.

Cascade Park, the city’s most beautiful and popular park, features a lighted water fountain and a water fall that's more than 20 feet high. The park, which overlooks the Penobscot River, also has a small gazebo, picnic tables, and short walking trails.

Lily Bay State Park is located on the shore of Moosehead Lake. Activities at this parking include birdwatching, motor boating, canoeing, fishing, swimming, trail hiking and walking, picnicking, and wildlife observation. There is a boat launch for trailered boats. There is a campground with a playground, showers, and an RV dumping station. In winter, cross-country ski trails are groomed and a parking lot for skiers and snowshoers is plowed. Visitors may use snowmobiles in the park.
A 2-mile walking trail follows the shoreline between the beach and Rowell Cove campground, offering easy terrain and nice views out to Moosehead Lake. Open daily, 9am - Sunset. - Park Map (PDF)