Wildlife preserve events in Maine

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Porter Preserve, located at 1 Porter Point 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. The preserve offers over 30 miles of hiking trails through meadows, forests, wetlands, and scenic vistas, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area free of charge. Guests are welcome to visit the visitor center at Oak Point Farm to learn more about BRLT, obtain maps, purchase merchandise, or sign up for educational programs.

Johnson Field Preserve at Mackerel Cove is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 25 Abner Point Road in Harpswell, Maine, United States. This landmark on Bailey Island overlooks a scenic working harbor and offers visitors a place for family picnics, sledding in the winter, quiet moments of reflection, beach access, and stunning views. Owned and maintained by Harpswell Heritage Land Trust, this preserve is a great spot for launching kayaks or canoes. The Town-owned Mackerel Cove Lot next door also provides public access to the waterfront and beautiful rose hedges. Fishermen use part of the lot for seasonal storage. Johnson Field is available for rental for weddings, birthdays, and other special events. To get there, follow Rt 24 south from Cook’s Corner in Brunswick for 14.2 miles until you reach the intersection with Abner Point Rd. Turn right onto Abner Point Rd and then left into the parking lot. The mission of Johnson Field Preserve is to preserve and protect Harpswell’s natural resources, cultural heritage, and access to the outdoors through conservation, stewardship, and education. Sign up for emails to receive events listings, news, and interesting articles.

Hendricks Head Preserve, located at 26 Salt Pond Road in Southport, Maine, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction managed by the Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT). As a nationally accredited nonprofit land conservation organization, BRLT is dedicated to preserving the natural habitat, scenic beauty, and working land of the Boothbay region for the public benefit. Visitors to Hendricks Head Preserve can explore over 30 miles of hiking trails that wind through meadows, forests, wetlands, and scenic vistas, showcasing the natural beauty of the area. The preserve is open to the public year-round, free of charge, and offers opportunities to observe seabirds, wading birds, migratory birds, butterflies, and historical and archaeological sites.

Hawkes Preserve Trailhead is a peaceful park located at 54 Tow Path Road in Gorham, Maine, United States. This scenic trailhead serves as the starting point for various hiking and walking trails that wind through the beautiful Hawkes Preserve. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature, spot local wildlife, and take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Hawkes Preserve Trailhead offers something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Todd Wildlife Sanctuary is a serene park and popular tourist attraction situated at 10 Audubon Rd in Bremen, Maine, United States. This sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and peaceful walking trails. The sanctuary is a perfect place for birdwatching, photography, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Todd Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination in Maine.

The Raymond & Simone Savage Wildlife Preserve, managed by the Great Works Regional Land Trust, is a stunning natural oasis located at 15 Dover Road in South Berwick, Maine. This park and tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the beauty of the local wildlife and landscape. With walking trails, picnic areas, and educational programs, the preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come immerse yourself in the tranquility and splendor of the Raymond & Simone Savage Wildlife Preserve.

Old Town House Park is a charming and historic park located on Memorial Highway in North Yarmouth, Maine. This picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and beautiful flower gardens, Old Town House Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply take in the peaceful surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this hidden gem in the heart of North Yarmouth.

Vaughan Woods, located in Hallowell, Maine, United States, is a picturesque park that offers visitors a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With winding trails, lush greenery, and a tranquil river running through the grounds, Vaughan Woods is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, Vaughan Woods has something for everyone. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the beauty and tranquility that this park has to offer.

The Wells Reserve at Laudholm, located at 342 Laudholm Farm Road in Wells, Maine, is a unique institution that serves as both a park and a tourist attraction. This institution offers a 3-part series that focuses on compassion, awareness, and nature as resources for healing. Visitors can stay up to date with all the events and programs happening at the Wells Reserve. Thousands of children and adults participate in educational programs each year at the Wells Reserve, utilizing the "living laboratory," barn classroom, and modern teaching laboratory. The institution protects 2,250 acres of coastal habitats along Maine's southwest coast, setting an example for conservation best practices.

Fort Williams Park, located at 1000 Shore Road in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, is a 90-acre park owned and operated by the town. Visitors can explore the iconic Portland Head Light and Museum, enjoy stunning ocean views, hike through diverse natural landscapes, and learn about the area's maritime and military history. The Friends of Fort Williams Park, a nonprofit organization, work to preserve and enhance the park's natural resources and visitor experience through various projects and initiatives. Visitors can support the park by donating or volunteering. Events such as Earth Walkers Pollinator Classes and the Cape Elizabeth Garden Tour offer unique opportunities to explore and learn about the park's ecology. With the help of generous sponsors and supporters, the Friends of the Park continue to maintain and improve the park for all to enjoy.

Hartley Mason Reserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 481 York Street in York, Maine, United States. This stunning reserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its lush greenery, winding trails, and beautiful views. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the great outdoors, Hartley Mason Reserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come visit and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in York, Maine.

Rogers Park Conservation Area is a beautiful park located at 46-68 Dion Avenue in Kittery, Maine, United States. This conservation area offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to enjoy nature and wildlife. With walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views, it is the perfect place for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply unwind in nature, Rogers Park Conservation Area is the ideal destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and explore this hidden gem in Kittery and immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors.

Viles Arboretum, located at 153 Hospital Street in Augusta, Maine, is a 224-acre botanical garden and park that offers educational, recreational, and inspirational opportunities through the conservation of land and cultivation of trees and plants from around the world. Established in 1982 as an independent non-profit organization, Viles Arboretum features miles of trails, a visitor center, and a variety of habitats that are home to flora and fauna of statewide importance. The institution is currently offering pre-orders for American Chestnut Seedlings, with pick-up available on May 11, 2024. Visitors can enjoy free access to hiking trails, walking paths, and botanical gardens. Viles Arboretum also provides a variety of recreational activities and event spaces for meetings, conferences, parties, weddings, and other special events. Support Viles Arboretum by becoming a member or making a donation today.

The Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 92 Pine Point Road in Scarborough, Maine, United States. This center is part of the Maine Audubon initiatives, which aim to conserve wildlife and habitat through education, conservation, and action. Visitors can also explore other Audubon locations such as Fields Pond in Holden and Gilsland Farm in Falmouth. One of the highlights at Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center is the annual Big Night event, where there is a large spike in the numbers of amphibians on the move. This event usually occurs on the first warm rainy night in late March or early April, providing a unique opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon and help native critters thrive.

The Rangeley Lakes Trails Center, located at 524 Saddleback Mountain Road in Rangeley, Maine, is a park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The institution is currently hiring for a summer trail crew. The center recently hosted a sold-out event for the Solar Eclipse, featuring a progressive lunch and various activities. The fee for the event included lunch, a trail pass, and parking. The center also offers ski, snowshoe, and fat bike rentals, as well as snacks and drinks. The institution hosts various events throughout the year, such as races and loppets. They are currently running a capital campaign to raise funds for improvements to the Trails Center. With over 200 inches of annual snowfall, the center's winter trails are popular among skiers, snowshoers, and fat tire bikers. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and rolling terrain in the warmer months as well. The Rangeley Lakes Trails Center strives to be good stewards of the land, preserving wildlife habitat and constructing erosion-resistant trails. Visitors are encouraged to support the center's efforts to build a world-class multi-use trails system.

The Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum, located at 10 Polar Loop in Brunswick, Maine, is a fascinating institution that showcases the rich history and culture of the Arctic region. In the spring of 2023, the museum will open inaugural exhibitions in their new home, the John and Lile Gibbons Center for Arctic Studies on the Bowdoin College campus. One of the new temporary exhibits will feature contemporary Inuit photography, offering visitors a unique perspective on life in the Arctic today. From the sledge that carried Peary to the North Pole in 1909 to modern technology used by Inuit travelers, the museum's exhibits explore the past and present of Arctic life. In addition to traditional displays, the museum also hosts events such as film festivals and discussions to engage visitors and shed light on lesser-known aspects of Arctic culture.

Nequasset Park is a serene and picturesque park located in Woolwich, Maine, United States. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with lush greenery, winding walking paths, and scenic views of the Nequasset Lake. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Nequasset Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers, families, and individuals looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Donnabeth Lippman Park is a serene and scenic park located at 18 Chaffin Pond Road in Windham, Maine, United States. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape into nature. With its lush greenery, winding walking trails, and tranquil pond, Donnabeth Lippman Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the fresh air, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Donnabeth Lippman Park and experience the beauty of nature in Windham, Maine.

Scarborough Beach State Park is a beautiful coastal park located at 418 Black Point Road in Scarborough, Maine, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs. The park is perfect for swimming, picnicking, beachcombing, and enjoying a relaxing day by the sea. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational opportunities, Scarborough Beach State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

Jewell Falls - Rowe Trailhead is a beautiful park located at 167 Rowe Avenue in Portland, Maine, United States. This 85-acre preserve is home to Jewell Falls, Portland's only natural waterfall, and the former Cumberland and Oxford Canal. Sponsored by Adopt-A-Trail partner Dr. David Kerr and Wyman's, the park offers over 70 miles of trails and green space in Greater Portland. The diverse habitats in the park provide great bird-watching opportunities, and the trails are blazed in different colors for easy wayfinding. The land around the falls was donated to Portland Trails by the family of Tom Jewell, one of the organization's founders. Visitors can park at various locations nearby and explore the network of trails that connect to nearby Fore River Trail, Stroudwater Trail, and Capisic Brook Trail. This park is a great example of collaboration between private landowners, Portland Trails, and the city to preserve green spaces.

The L.C. Bates Museum is a charming museum and tourist attraction located at 14 Easler Road in Fairfield, Maine, United States. This institution offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore natural history, cultural artifacts, and art exhibits in a beautiful setting. With a focus on education and preservation, the museum provides an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Come discover the wonders of the L.C. Bates Museum and immerse yourself in the rich history and diverse collections it has to offer.

Pleasant Point Park is a charming and picturesque tourist attraction located on Simpson Road in Buxton, Maine, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, serene ponds, and winding trails, Pleasant Point Park is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a scenic backdrop for a family outing, Pleasant Point Park is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

The Kennebunk Beach Improvement Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Kennebunk Beach in Maine. Located at 262 Beach Avenue, the association offers a variety of programs and events for the community, including beach clean-ups, educational workshops, and social gatherings. With a mission to promote environmental stewardship and community engagement, the Kennebunk Beach Improvement Association is a vital resource for residents and visitors alike.