LILY BAY STATE PARK
Lily Bay State Park is the place to pitch your tent near the shores of Moosehead Lake where campsites are well-spaced, wooded and some are lakeside. Located in Beaver Cove, the park offers visitors access to the popular central Maine region where hiking, fishing, hunting and leaf-peeping are popular activities throughout the year.
The largest lake in New England, Moosehead Lake fills a glacier-scoured basin 117-square miles in area. Its waters run cool and deep, harboring togue, brook trout, and landlocked salmon. Opened in 1961, this 925-acre park welcomes visitors to experience a variety of outdoor activities including swimming, boating, camping and watching wildlife.
The Moosehead area is famous worldwide for its local native, the moose, and visitors hope to see these magestic animals in their native habitat. Along with moose, bear, deer, and other wild animals live in the area. Perhaps the most spectacular peak in the area is Mt. Kineo, which rises abruptly from the middle of the lake. Kineo's cliffs tower 800 feet above the water and are a must-see on visitors' vacation lists.
In the winter, cross country skiing, snowmobiling and ice fishing attract hearty visitors to the park.
1. Lily Bay State Park offers two designated swimming areas on Moosehead Lake's shores.
2. The first beach is near the campground, ideal for campers and day visitors alike.
3. A second smaller beach is located further along the park road, offering a quieter experience.
4. Both beaches have sandy bottoms making it comfortable to walk in water without shoes.
5. Lifeguards are not present at either location; swimmers should exercise caution when entering deep waters or during rough weather conditions.
6. The lake's clear cool water makes summer swims refreshing but can be chilly early/late season.
7. Park rules prohibit pets from both swim areas ensuring clean and safe environments for all guests.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is a public boat launch available, which provides easy access to Moosehead Lake's lower end - perfect for motorized watercrafts and sailboats. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities in the area due to its calm waters. Boat rentals are not provided within the park itself; however, they can be found at local businesses nearby.
Enjoy fishing in freshwater bodies, home to brook trout and landlocked salmon. Ice-fishing is popular during winter months.