The visitor center at Aroostook State Park is currently closed due to temporary park closure for infrastructure improvements. Check for updates on the park’s reopening.
The entrance fee at Aroostook State Park is $3 for adult Maine residents and $4 for non-residents, payable per person per day. Children under 5 and seniors 65+ enter free, while children aged 5-11 pay 50 cents.###
From Portland/Bangor: I-95 N → Connect to US Route 1 N in Houlton → Follow signs to Presque Isle → Turn onto State Park Rd. From the Canadian border: Take US Route 1 S → Follow signs into Presque Isle → Park is just off US Route 1 at 87 State Park Rd. Limited local transit; rideshares or taxis may be available from town.
At Aroostook State Park, there is a paved parking lot above the beach area, suitable for cars and smaller RVs. A separate parking lot is available for trailerable boats. Motorcycles can also park in these areas. Overnight parking is not permitted in day-use lots, and a fee is collected year-round.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Tucked into the quiet forests of northern Maine, Aroostook State Park is a tranquil retreat that blends scenic wilderness with historic charm. As the state’s very first park, it invites visitors to hike up Quaggy Jo Mountain, kayak on crystal-clear Echo Lake, or camp beneath a canopy of stars. With 800 acres of forest, lake, and mountain terrain, the park offers four-season recreation that embodies the rugged serenity of the Maine outdoors. Whether you’re a birder, boater, skier, or just in search of stillness, Aroostook is where adventure meets peace.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.4
- Established year
- 1938
Top 3 Facts about Aroostook State Park
This park is one of five Maine State Parks in the path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse, with 3 minutes and 1 second of totality.
Features diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, and lakes supporting rich wildlife.
Echo Lake provides scenic waters for kayaking, fishing, swimming, and quiet reflection.
Family programs
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check for seasonal amenity availability, especially in winter. Trail updates and events can be found on the Maine State Parks website.
Pack Appropriately
Layer clothing for changing temps. Bring hiking boots, insect repellent, sunscreen, and rain protection depending on season.
Respect Wildlife
Do not feed or approach moose, deer, or other animals; respect the park’s natural rhythms and keep pets leashed.
Stay Informed
Cell service may be spotty. Notify someone of your plans before hiking or paddling into backcountry areas.
Seasons
Spring is a delightful time to visit Aroostook State Park as nature awakens from its winter slumber. The park bursts with vibrant colors as wildflowers bloom and the trees regain their lush green foliage. The weather begins to warm up, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Spring also brings the opportunity to witness wildlife emerging from hibernation, such as deer, moose, and various bird species. The tranquil atmosphere and the soothing sound of flowing streams create a serene environment for nature lovers to explore and rejuvenate.
Summer is perhaps the most popular time to visit Aroostook State Park, thanks to its warm temperatures and long daylight hours. During this season, the park is bustling with activity as visitors flock to enjoy the pristine beaches and refreshing waters of Echo Lake. Swimming, fishing, and boating are popular pastimes, while hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas. The lush greenery provides shade for picnics and leisurely walks, and the park’s campgrounds are abuzz with families and outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the balmy evenings under the starlit sky.
Fall transforms Aroostook State Park into a breathtaking tapestry of colors, as the foliage explodes into vibrant red, orange, and gold hues. The crisp air carries the scent of fallen leaves, creating a magical atmosphere for hiking and exploring the park’s trails. The panoramic views from Quaggy Jo Mountain are especially stunning this season, offering sweeping views of the surrounding forests and lakes. Fall also brings opportunities for wildlife observation as animals prepare for the upcoming winter months. The park’s campgrounds are still open during the fall, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of autumn firsthand by camping amidst the colorful foliage.
Winter casts a serene and tranquil spell over Aroostook State Park, transforming it into a winter wonderland blanketed in snow. While some amenities may be closed during this season, there are still plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing become popular activities, with the park’s trails offering peaceful routes through snow-covered forests and meadows. Echo Lake freezes over, providing a picturesque setting for ice fishing and ice skating. The park’s campground may offer winter camping for those seeking a unique outdoor experience, with the chance to cozy up by a crackling fire and admire the starry night sky above the snowy landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Aroostook State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Presque Isle, located in Aroostook County, Maine. The park is within the southern municipal boundary of Presque Isle. It is accessible off U.S. Route 1 on the south side of the city.
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The QuaQuaJo Nature Trail is the best for kids, as it is a 0.5-mile easy loop through a mature forest with flowing springs, various trees, plants, birds, and animals. It is accessible from the south end of the parking lot or the campground road, making it a safe and enjoyable hike for families.
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Yes, dogs must be on a leash not exceeding four feet in length and cannot be left unattended. Owners are required to pick up after their pets.
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Overnight RV parking is allowed, but there are no RV dumping stations, and no electricity or water hookups are available. RVs up to 35 feet are permitted, based on the campground’s size restrictions.
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You can enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, fishing, paddling, swimming, and camping. The park also offers nature watching, ice skating on the lake, and winter camping with prior arrangements. Additionally, there are trails for classical cross-country skiing and a warming hut for rest and socializing.