Reservations for Maine’s state park campgrounds are now open, giving outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to secure spots for the upcoming summer season.
Lily Bay State Park near Moosehead Lake and Sebago Lake State Park opened reservations on Thursday, Feb. 1, with other state park campgrounds scheduled to follow on Tuesday, Feb. 6, according to the state park system’s website.
According to an article published by News Center Maine, Reservations are expected to fill quickly due to high demand. The state park system is offering alternative reservation dates on Feb. 2 and Feb. 7 to accommodate any potential disruptions. Campsites are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Prospective campers can book their stays online, through the state call center, or by mail. Walk-in reservations have been discontinued, as the state prioritizes digital and phone services to streamline the booking process.
Individual reservations can be made for stays through Sept. 8, with a daily cutoff time of 4 p.m.
Group campsite reservations require direct contact with park officials and are not available through the online system.
According to its website, Maine’s 48 state parks and historic sites offer diverse natural landscapes, catering to a wide range of outdoor experiences.
Coastal parks like Ferry Beach, Popham, Reid, Two Lights, Shackford Head, and Cobscook Bay provide scenic ocean views and sandy beaches. Lakeside destinations such as Sebago Lake, Damariscotta Lake, Mount Blue, and Aroostook offer opportunities for lake swimming, fishing, and water sports.
Riverside and waterway parks, including Androscoggin Riverlands and the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, feature tranquil settings ideal for paddling and nature exploration.
Meanwhile, rolling hills and mountain parks like Bradbury Mountain, Camden Hills, and Peaks-Kenny attract hikers and wildlife enthusiasts, while island parks such as Warren Island and Eagle Island State Historic Site add a unique coastal charm to Maine’s park system.
The state parks also showcase thousands of miles of hiking and multi-use trails, along with beach access and both ocean and lake swimming options. Campers can choose from 12 state parks with camping facilities, including options for group camping at 10 parks.