
Reid State Park
Maine's coastal gem with sandy beaches, rugged rocks, and scenic trails, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant weather

Reid State Park
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Maine's coastal gem with sandy beaches, rugged rocks, and scenic trails, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
"A beautiful mix of rocky and sandy beaches, perfect for a scenic walk or capturing the evening light."

🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Horse flies and mosquitoes can be brutal in summer. Bring strong repellent, especially for the sandy beach areas.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The sand can be soft and challenging. Opt for comfortable shoes, and be extra careful on slippery rocks. [:athletic_shoe:]

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mile Beach
Sandy stretch of coastline
A beautiful, expansive sandy beach perfect for walking, running, or simply relaxing by the ocean.

Rocky Outcroppings
Ends of Mile Beach
Dramatic rocky areas offer a textured landscape, ideal for photography and exploring tide pools.

Newly Repaired Boardwalk
Along Mile Beach
Experience the resilience of the park on the recently restored boardwalk, offering accessible views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Bugs and Crowds
Navigating the Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Horse flies and mosquitoes can be brutal in summer. Bring strong repellent, especially for the sandy beach areas.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The sand can be soft and challenging. Opt for comfortable shoes, and be extra careful on slippery rocks. [:athletic_shoe:]
🚗 Drive Carefully on Access Road
The road to the park can be narrow and one-lane in sections. Drive cautiously and be aware of oncoming traffic.
📸 Perfect for Photographers
The mix of sandy beaches, rocky shores, and ocean views makes it a stunning spot for capturing Maine's coastal beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Horse flies and mosquitoes can be brutal in summer. Bring strong repellent, especially for the sandy beach areas.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The sand can be soft and challenging. Opt for comfortable shoes, and be extra careful on slippery rocks. [:athletic_shoe:]
🚗 Drive Carefully on Access Road
The road to the park can be narrow and one-lane in sections. Drive cautiously and be aware of oncoming traffic.
📸 Perfect for Photographers
The mix of sandy beaches, rocky shores, and ocean views makes it a stunning spot for capturing Maine's coastal beauty.
🐶 Dog-Friendly in Fall
Dogs are welcome during the off-season, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Reid State Park for its stunning natural beauty, offering a unique mix of sandy beaches and dramatic rocky shores. The park is ideal for photography and peaceful walks, especially during the off-season. However, be prepared for intense biting insects during summer months and potentially challenging walking conditions on the sand.
"We loved our late fall visit to Reid State Park. A friend of ours recommended it as a lovely mix of both rocky and sandy beaches. It is a beautiful area, we saw a photographer capturing the evening light. The sand is different than Long sands, it is a challenging walk as the sand doesn’t compress in the same way as other beaches. It’s a shorter beach, .75 miles one way but it’s a very pleasant with a nice rocky area at each end that adds texture to pictures. It’s close to nothing but it was a pretty drive out to this state park. The restrooms were closed for the season but there was a clean port-o-let on the premises."
Amanda M
"Drove just south of 5 Islands, to the south, down a small "one lane" road, drive carefully. At the end there's a private property, just before you get to there, on the left, is 3 spaces marked fir disable parking. From there, there's a little path over to some rocks(BE VERY CAREFUL ON THE ROCKS, AS YOU GET CLOSE TO THE WATER, THE ROCKS GET VERY SLIPPERY) Keep an eye on kids if you take them here. Its a beautiful spot."
GlitterFactory 1
"We went the first week in October so we could bring our dog with us. It was quiet but the weather was warm and perfect. Had a great time. Beach is clean and peaceful!"
N N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reid State Park is located in Georgetown, Maine. Access involves driving down a narrow, one-lane road, so proceed with caution. There is a fee for entry, which varies for in-state and out-of-state visitors.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on busy summer days. Arriving early is recommended.
GPS navigation systems can generally guide you to Reid State Park. However, be mindful of the narrow access road as you get closer to the park entrance.
From Route 1, take Route 127 South towards Georgetown. Continue on Route 127, and you will see signs for Reid State Park. The final approach involves a narrow road.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching Reid State Park. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Reid State Park. Fees are typically lower for Maine residents compared to non-residents. Check the official Maine State Parks website for current pricing.
Maine residents often receive a discounted entry fee. Specific discounts for seniors or other groups may be available; it's best to check the park's official information.
Reid State Park is generally open daily from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day. Hours can vary, so it's advisable to check the official Maine State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the park entrance. Advance purchase options may not be available.
While the main season for facilities like restrooms is typically from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, the park grounds themselves may be accessible outside of these dates, though services will be limited.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Reid State Park offers swimming beaches, picnic facilities, and hiking trails. You can also enjoy birdwatching, photography, and exploring the rocky shores.
Restrooms are available seasonally, typically from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Outside of this period, portable toilets may be available but could be locked.
Yes, Reid State Park has swimming beaches. However, be aware of the water temperature, which can be quite cool even in summer.
The park offers trails and the opportunity to walk along its beaches and rocky areas, providing a good experience for those who enjoy coastal walks.
The park is known for its bird nesting areas, so birdwatching is a popular activity. You might also see various coastal marine life.
🎫 🦟 Pests & Wildlife
Yes, horse flies and mosquitoes can be a significant issue, particularly in July and August on the sandy beach. Visiting on a breezy day or after September is recommended.
The term 'moose flies' likely refers to the large biting insects, such as horse flies, that are prevalent in Maine's coastal areas during the summer months.
The bug season is generally worst in July and August. Visiting in late September or October, or on days with a strong breeze, can significantly reduce bug encounters.
While wildlife is present, the main concern for visitors is typically the biting insects. Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially on rocky terrain.
The best approach is to use insect repellent. If the bugs are too bothersome, consider moving to a more exposed, breezy area or visiting during a less buggy season.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The rocky outcroppings at either end of Mile Beach offer dramatic textures and compositions. The expansive sandy beach itself is also great for capturing coastal landscapes.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) provide the best light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and warm tones. The evening light is particularly stunning.
The park's diverse terrain, from smooth sand to rugged rocks, offers varied photographic subjects. Capturing the power of the ocean against the rocks is a popular choice.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or isolating details. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet rocks and water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check the official Maine State Parks policy on drone operation before flying within the park to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds and potential bug issues. While restrooms are seasonal, portable toilets are usually available. Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as amenities within the park are limited. The drive itself, though narrow, is manageable with children.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Visiting in the late fall or early spring offers solitude and dramatic, often moody, landscapes. Be prepared for cooler weather and potentially fewer amenities. The park's natural beauty and the sound of the ocean make it an ideal spot for reflection and rejuvenation.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for unique lighting conditions and fewer distractions. The newly repaired boardwalk also offers interesting compositional elements. Don't forget to pack a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the ocean and wet rocks, and a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Reid State Park's Diverse Terrain
At both ends of Mile Beach, you'll find impressive rocky outcroppings. These areas are fantastic for exploring, offering a different perspective of the coastline and opportunities to discover tide pools. However, caution is advised, especially near the water's edge, as the rocks can become extremely slippery. The park also features a newly repaired boardwalk section, which provides accessible views and a testament to the park's resilience after storm damage.
When planning your visit, consider wearing sturdy footwear that can handle both soft sand and potentially slick rocks. This variety in terrain makes Reid State Park a visually dynamic destination, appealing to walkers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Dealing with Reid State Park's Infamous Insects
Travelers often recommend visiting on days with a good breeze, as this can help keep the insects at bay. Many visitors find that the situation improves significantly after September, making late fall an ideal time to visit if you're sensitive to bugs. If you plan to visit during the summer, packing a strong insect repellent is not just recommended, it's essential for a comfortable experience.
While the bugs can be a deterrent for some, many visitors still find the park's natural beauty worth the minor inconvenience. By being prepared with repellent and choosing your visit time wisely, you can still thoroughly enjoy the coastal scenery and activities Reid State Park has to offer.
Photography Opportunities at Reid State Park
The sandy expanse of Mile Beach itself is also a prime subject, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, diffused light creates a serene atmosphere and highlights the textures of the sand. The newly repaired boardwalk offers a different perspective, allowing for shots that incorporate man-made elements within the natural landscape.
Many visitors recommend visiting during the late fall or early spring for fewer crowds and dramatic, moody lighting. Even during the summer, a breezy day can add dynamism to your shots by creating interesting wave patterns and movement. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping coastal vistas and consider a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare on wet surfaces.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit