Maine Public Access Resources

Here are two great resources for places to visit in Maine.

Delorme Maine Atlas – The indispensable atlas for the entire state lists places such as parks, wildlife preserves and recreational areas open to the public.  The boat launch spots are great places to reach the shore (without trespassing!)

“Rely on a DeLorme Atlas & Gazetteer for the utmost in trip planning and backcountry access. Contains topographic maps with unbeatable detail, plus gazetteer information on great places to go and things to do. Each atlas is a quality paperback; size 11″ x 15-1/2”. Map detail includes: Back roads, dirt roads and trails; Elevation contours; Remote lakes and streams; Boat Ramps; Public lands for recreation; Land use / land cover – forests, wetlands, agriculture; Trailheads; Campgrounds; Prime hunting and fishing spots

Maine Coastal Public Access Guide – These guides, available only through the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, provide a comprehensive listing the public shoreline access points.

 “Exploring Maine’s beautiful coast has never been easier! The Maine Coastal Public Access Guide is a comprehensive three-volume guide to over 700 publicly-accessible shore sites along the coast of Maine from Kittery to Calais. The Guide’s three volumes, organized by region – Southern Region (South Berwick to Freeport), Midcoast (Brunswick to Hampden), and Downeast (Bangor to Calais) are currently for sale. Each area featured includes a site description, activities, directions, parking, facilities, GPS coordinates, and more. The Guide includes boat launches, beaches, nature preserves, parks, hiking trails, and other scenic areas. The Guide’s local and regional maps can help you plan a day, a week, a season or a lifetime, visiting other coastal access sites in the area. Whether you’re looking for a new fishing spot, a hidden beach, or a seaside hike, there is something for everyone, and you are bound to discover your own new favorite places.