Maine's Best Lakes

Lake life (“camp life”) is a summer religion in Maine, but great lakes stretch every season.

When to Go

• Early summer (June): Cool, clear water and quiet camp roads before school gets out.
• Peak summer (July-August): Warmest swimming, buzzing marinas, and plenty of loon calls at dusk.
• Fall (September-October): Crisp mornings, glassy paddles, and fiery foliage reflected on the water with far fewer boats.

Choose Your Lake Style

• Big water, big views: Moosehead, Sebago, and Flagstaff suit boating, sailing, and open-water paddling.
• Mountain lakes: Rangeley and Flagstaff pair perfectly with nearby hiking on the AT and Bigelow Range.
• Midcoast swims: Damariscotta Lake State Park gives you a sandy beach and easy access to coastal towns for dinner.

On-the-Water Tips

• Boat launches: Many public ramps require invasive plant inspections. Look for courtesy inspectors and keep your boat and trailer clean and drained.
• Paddling: Mornings are calmest. Watch for afternoon winds on larger lakes like Sebago and Moosehead.
• Fishing: Landlocked salmon, brook trout, and togue (lake trout) are common targets. Check current regulations and consider hiring a registered guide.
• Wildlife etiquette: Loons nest close to shore; give them wide space and keep noise down at night so you still hear their calls.

Camp and Cabin Basics

Traditional lake camps often have screen porches, basic kitchens, and fire pits. Bring a headlamp, bug spray for June evenings, and layers for cool nights even in August. If you rent a camp, ask whether linens and drinking water are provided and confirm if there is Wi-Fi or if you should embrace a true unplugged weekend.