TOP 30 Best Nature preserves in Maine

Located in Harpswell, Maine, the Potts Point Preserve is a charming park and tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique experience along the ocean shoreline. With extensive tide pools, a gravel beach, and stunning views of Casco Bay, this preserve is a must-visit for nature lovers. At the southern tip of the preserve, visitors can enjoy unparalleled views of several islands in Casco Bay, including Haskell, Pinkham, Bailey, and Eagle Islands. The tide pools are teeming with life, with a variety of marine creatures such as barnacles, oysters, crabs, shrimp, and starfish calling them home.

The Goslings Preserve is a beautiful park located in Harpswell, Maine, United States. This park consists of three small islands with sandy beaches and campsites in the heart of Casco Bay. The islands are easily accessible at all tides, with the best places to land being the northwestern shores of the larger islands. The closest boat ramp is the Mere Point Public Launch in Brunswick, just over three miles away. Overnight parking is not allowed without permission. West Gosling, East Gosling, and Irony Island make up The Goslings Preserve, offering a mix of conifers and hardwoods, as well as a resident osprey pair nesting on West Gosling during the summer. The islands were generously sold to the Maine Coast Heritage Trust in 2014 to be permanently conserved. The public has shown amazing support for the preservation of these islands, and they are now open for all to enjoy.

Presumpscot River Preserve, located at 99 Overset Road in Portland, Maine, is a beautiful 48-acre public nature preserve along the Presumpscot River. With over 70 miles of trails and green space in Greater Portland, this park is a popular tourist attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail at Presumpscot River Preserve follows a deep ravine, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding wooded areas. Boardwalks and bridges make the trail accessible for hikers and mountain bikers, with the option to explore short loops into upland areas or continue along the shoreline under the highway overpass.

Alewive Woods Preserve is a beautiful park located in Kennebunk, Maine, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with miles of scenic hiking trails, lush forests, and a variety of wildlife to observe. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or simply relax in a tranquil setting, Alewive Woods Preserve is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in southern Maine.

Knight's Pond Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 477 Greely Road Extension in Cumberland, Maine, United States. This stunning preserve offers visitors the chance to explore a peaceful natural environment filled with scenic walking trails, serene ponds, and beautiful wildlife. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an outdoor adventure, Knight's Pond Preserve is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in Maine.

The Rachel Carson Preserve, located at 150 Maine 32 in Bristol, Maine, United States, is a unique park that serves as a tidal pool and rocky shore that inspired Rachel Carson's book, The Edge of the Sea. Visitors can explore the one-quarter-acre tidal pool, picnic on the rocky shore, or conduct scientific studies, just like Carson did many years ago. The preserve also features a woodland area with blowdown trees, wetlands, streams, and even an upland pond that was dammed for ice harvesting. The first 40 acres of this 78-acre preserve were donated to The Nature Conservancy in 1966, with additional acres donated in 1967. The preserve was dedicated to Rachel Carson in 1970, honoring her conservation efforts. Visitors can access the preserve by following Route 130 south from Damariscotta, turning left on Route 32 in New Harbor, and continuing for about one mile. Parking is available along the shoulder of the road, but visitors are encouraged to show courtesy to neighbors and return another time if the parking area is full.

Mill Brook Preserve Trailhead is a picturesque park located in Westbrook, Maine, United States. This tranquil oasis offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with miles of scenic trails to explore. The trailhead serves as the gateway to the stunning Mill Brook Preserve, where visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, birdwatching, and picnicking in a serene natural setting. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Mill Brook Preserve Trailhead has something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Otter Brook Preserve, located at 429 Harpswell Neck Road in Harpswell, Maine, is a beautiful park that runs alongside one of the largest freshwater streams in the area. This freshwater marsh, stream, and pond system is a rare gem in the coastal community. The preserve features all-season trails that wind through the forest, providing 1.7 miles of scenic walking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities. Visitors to Otter Brook Preserve can enjoy peaceful walks through the woods, with occasional sightings of wildlife such as great blue herons, ducks, and dragonflies. The preserve was protected from development by the Harpswell Heritage Land Trust, local donors, and the Town of Harpswell to preserve its essential wildlife habitat and protect marine water quality for ocean life in Ewing Narrows and Harpswell Cove.

The Poland Spring Preservation Society is a museum and tourist attraction located at 37 Preservation Way in Poland, Maine, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of Poland Spring, a famous natural spring and resort destination in Maine. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the history of the area, including its role as a popular vacation spot in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors interested in learning more about the cultural significance of Poland Spring. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a unique travel experience, the Poland Spring Preservation Society is a must-visit destination in Maine.

The Edwin L Smith Preserve Trailhead is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 76 Guinea Road in Kennebunkport, Maine, United States. This beautiful preserve offers a variety of scenic hiking trails for visitors to explore, surrounded by lush forests and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the Edwin L Smith Preserve Trailhead has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at this peaceful and serene destination.

Nature's Wilderness RV Lodge by Modern America Campgrounds is a serene retreat nestled in the heart of Baldwin, Maine. This campground offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and the beauty of the great outdoors. Guests can enjoy spacious RV sites, cozy lodges, and picturesque park grounds. Whether you're looking to relax by the campfire, explore the nearby hiking trails, or simply unwind in nature, this institution has something for everyone. Come experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Nature's Wilderness RV Lodge by Modern America Campgrounds.

The David Rancourt River Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Lewiston, Maine, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with serene walking trails, lush greenery, and picturesque views of the river. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or simply relax and take in the scenery, the David Rancourt River Preserve is the perfect destination. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the tranquility and beauty of nature in the heart of Maine.

Skolfield Shores Preserve, located at 33 Skolfield Drive in Harpswell, Maine, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction with fields, salt marsh, and over 4,000 feet of shoreline on Middle Bay Cove. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk while spotting a variety of birds, from meadowlarks to terns. The main trail system at Skolfield Shores Preserve includes the Hemlock Loop and the Merrucoonegan Loop, totaling one mile in length. These loops wind through diverse forest habitats and offer views of the cove, salt marsh, and fields of historic Merrucoonegan Farm. A spur trail leads to a turn of the century boathouse along the shore, where visitors can observe horseshoe crabs coming to shore to lay their eggs in May and June.

Woodward Point Preserve, located at 219 Woodward Point Road in Brunswick, Maine, is an 87.5-acre park that offers visitors the opportunity to explore its trails and observe wildlife in the beautiful northern Casco Bay area. Visitors can sign up for special maps with tips on where to go and what to look for, and themed activity maps for kids are also available. The Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust is working with Woodward Point Preserve to create a level, half-mile trail to ensure that visitors of all abilities can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Construction on the trail is expected to be completed in the fall, and efforts are being made to make the preserve more accessible to all visitors.

Long Reach Preserve is a stunning 95-acre park located at 648 Harpswell Island Road in Harpswell, Maine. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors one of the longest hiking trails in the area, with a challenging 1.5-mile loop trail that winds through various forest types, a peat bog, and descends to the shores of Long Reach. The preserve showcases Harpswell's unique folded bedrock geology, with steep ridges running parallel to the shore and forming peaty wetlands. Long Reach itself is a submerged valley with tidal mudflats at low water. Visitors can enjoy views of weathered bedrock cliffs across the water, including the town-owned Cliff Trail.

Black Brook Preserve is a stunning park located in Windham, Maine, United States. This beautiful natural oasis offers visitors the chance to explore lush forests, serene wetlands, and a picturesque brook. With over 160 acres of protected land, the preserve is a haven for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and more while immersing themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a place to connect with nature, Black Brook Preserve is the perfect destination.

Stover's Point Preserve is a beautiful park located in Harpswell, Maine, United States. This narrow gravel sandbar surrounds a salt marsh, which is a unique and sensitive habitat for various plants and animals. Visitors can enjoy swimming, relaxing on the beach, exploring the tidal stream, kayaking, or paddleboarding while taking in the view of the iconic Cribstone Bridge. It is important to protect the marsh grass by not parking or walking on it. Please note that there are no bathroom facilities or picnic tables at the preserve, so plan accordingly. Parking is limited and the gravel road leading to the preserve is in poor condition, so use caution. The mission of Stover's Point Preserve is to preserve and protect Harpswell's natural resources and cultural heritage. Sign up for emails to stay updated on events and news at the preserve.

The Rachael Carson Salt Pond Preserve is a stunning natural feature located in Bristol, Maine, United States. Named after the renowned environmentalist, this preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse coastal ecosystem, including salt marshes, tidal pools, and sandy beaches. With its picturesque views and abundant wildlife, the preserve is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful hike along the trails, spot various bird species, and take in the beauty of the Maine coastline. The Rachael Carson Salt Pond Preserve is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of New England.

Seal Cove Shore Preserve is a beautiful park located in South Bristol, Maine, United States. This wooded property features fresh and saltwater wetlands, towering white pines, and 3,000 feet of water frontage along Seal Cove. The preserve is a habitat for wading birds and waterfowl, as well as economically significant clam flats. The shoreline includes a minor cove frequented by wading birds and small fish. Managed by the Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, the preserve offers a one mile loop trail with stunning views. Visitors can access the preserve at 211 S Road in South Bristol, off Route 129. For guidelines and more information, contact Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust at (207) 563-1393 or info@coastalrivers.org. Enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife at Seal Cove Shore Preserve.

West Branch Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 433 North Mountain Road in Somerville, Maine, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Maine with its lush forests, scenic trails, and picturesque views. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in nature, West Branch Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and discover the wonders of this hidden gem in the heart of Maine.

The Kate Furbish Preserve - East is a 591-acre park located on Ordinance Road in Brunswick, Maine, United States. This expansive parcel of land was generously conveyed to the Town of Brunswick by the U.S. Navy and is now the largest open space property in the town. The preserve offers a variety of passive recreational activities, including walking and shared use trails, winter recreation, hunting, fishing, clamming, and more. Visitors can also enjoy interpretive signage and amenities throughout the park. Development of a seven-mile trail system within the preserve began in 2014 and is set to be completed by the spring of 2021. The preserve stretches from the southern end of the Brunswick Executive Airport runways to Harpswell Sound, bordering the Mere Creek Golf Course and Prince's Point Road.

Bigelow Preserve is a stunning park located on West Flagstaff Road in Maine, United States. This tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and pristine lakes. Hiking trails wind through the preserve, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife and rare plant species that call Bigelow Preserve home. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, Bigelow Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

LaVerna Preserve is a picturesque hiking area located in Bristol, Maine, United States. This serene park offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and explore the beautiful landscapes of Maine. With well-maintained trails and stunning views, LaVerna Preserve is a popular tourist attraction for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, this preserve has something for everyone. Come visit LaVerna Preserve and experience the beauty of Maine's natural surroundings.

Hidden Valley Nature Center is a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of Jefferson, Maine. This stunning park covers over 1,000 acres of pristine wilderness, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With miles of hiking trails, serene ponds, and towering trees, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll through the woods or a challenging hike up a mountain, Hidden Valley Nature Center has something for everyone. Come explore this tranquil escape and discover the wonders of the Maine wilderness.

Coastal Rivers Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 110 Belvedere Road in Damariscotta, Maine, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning coastal rivers and diverse ecosystems of the region. With miles of hiking trails, educational exhibits, and guided tours, visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna while enjoying the serene beauty of the Maine coastline. Whether you're a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Coastal Rivers Nature Center is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.

Kenyon Hill Preserve, managed by the Great Works Land Trust, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 110 Ogunquit Road in South Berwick, Maine, United States. This beautiful preserve offers a peaceful retreat for hikers and nature lovers to connect with the outdoors and explore the scenic landscapes. Families are encouraged to visit and experience the wonders of nature together, with opportunities to discover hidden valleys, large boulders, and learn about different types of trees and mushrooms. By becoming a member of GWRLT, visitors can contribute to the preservation of these lands for future generations to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to register for the Annual Meeting on April 27th and join in the effort to save the best of Southern Maine for your children and ours.

Step Falls Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 1657 Bear River Road in Newry, Maine, United States. This stunning natural preserve features a series of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools that are perfect for swimming and exploring. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that wind through lush forests and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Step Falls Preserve is a peaceful retreat where visitors can relax, unwind, and connect with nature.

Shepard's Farm Preserve is a serene park located at 139 Crockett Ridge Road in Norway, Maine, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with well-maintained trails for hiking and walking. The preserve is home to diverse plant and animal species, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking in the scenic surroundings or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning views. Shepard's Farm Preserve is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with the outdoors.

Dodge Point Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Newcastle, Maine, United States. This institution, managed by the Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, offers visitors a peaceful and scenic environment to explore and enjoy nature. At Dodge Point Preserve, visitors can take leisurely walks along the trails, observe wildlife, and take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park also serves as a gathering place for friends and neighbors to come together and discuss important issues facing our region in a changing climate.

Ovens Mouth Preserves, located at Dover Cross Road in Boothbay, Maine, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction managed by the Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT). BRLT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the natural habitat, scenic beauty, and working land of the Boothbay region for the public benefit. Visitors to Ovens Mouth Preserves can enjoy over 30 miles of hiking trails that wind through meadows, forests, wetlands, and scenic vistas. The trails are open year-round and free of charge, providing access to woodlands, salt marshes, islands, seabird habitats, historical sites, and more.