Kennebunk Plains Preserve Kennebunk Arundel
Explore diverse trails for birdwatching and photography, but be prepared for a significant tick population.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for birding & fewer bugs
Kennebunk Plains Preserve Kennebunk Arundel
Best Time
Ideal for birding & fewer bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse trails for birdwatching and photography, but be prepared for a significant tick population.
"Great place for birding and it's a huge network for trails with a ton of different directions you can go. "
Tick Prevention is Key
Wear long sleeves/pants, use repellent, and check for ticks post-visit. :bug:
Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Trails can be uneven; wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Birdwatching Paradise
Throughout the preserve
Discover diverse avian species in this prime birding location. Keep an eye out for various songbirds and waterfowl.
Sunrise & Sunset Views
Trail network
Capture stunning golden hour photography. The open spaces offer beautiful vistas for memorable shots.
Peaceful Woodland Trails
Wooded areas
Wander through serene wooded paths, perfect for a quiet nature walk or a peaceful dog stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tick Alert: Be Prepared!
Best Footwear for the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
If you are inclined to take your dog to Pleasant Hill Preserve in Scarborough...holy mother-of-god TICKS
Tick Prevention is Key
Wear long sleeves/pants, use repellent, and check for ticks post-visit. :bug:
Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Trails can be uneven; wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience with a good pair of binoculars. :binoculars:
Dog-Friendly (with caution)
Dogs are welcome on leash, but be extra vigilant about ticks. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Tick Prevention is Key
Wear long sleeves/pants, use repellent, and check for ticks post-visit. :bug:
Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Trails can be uneven; wear good hiking boots for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience with a good pair of binoculars. :binoculars:
Dog-Friendly (with caution)
Dogs are welcome on leash, but be extra vigilant about ticks. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kennebunk Plains Preserve for its excellent birdwatching opportunities and beautiful trails, especially for sunrise and sunset photography. However, many caution about the significant tick presence, which can detract from the experience for some.
"I will definitely go back. Only had a short visit this time but it is a beautiful spot. Great birding and nice hike are"
Marc Estes
"Heard about this location for birding but it was underwhelming and we came away with more ticks than photos. Parking area can hold about 5 cars. There is a trail that loops. I don't think we would return if it was for a nature walk only, maybe we visited wrong time of year."
April N
"Great trails, well maintained, perfect for Sunrise and Sunset shots!"
James Brad Gardella
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located in Kennebunk and Arundel, Maine. Access is typically via local roads. Parking is limited, with a small lot that can hold about 5 cars.
Yes, there is a parking area, but it's quite small and can accommodate only about 5 vehicles. Arrive early, especially on weekends.
Using GPS with 'Kennebunk Plains Preserve' or its location in Kennebunk/Arundel should guide you. Confirm with local maps if unsure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kennebunk Plains Preserve is generally free to enter. It's a public natural area for exploration.
As a natural preserve, it's typically open from dawn to dusk. Always check for any posted signs regarding specific hours or closures.
The preserve is generally accessible year-round, though trail conditions may vary with weather. Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing might be possible in winter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The preserve offers a network of trails, including well-maintained paths and some more natural, uneven routes through wooded areas. There's a loop trail and many directions to explore.
Absolutely! It's highly regarded for birding, with a variety of wildlife and a large trail network that allows for diverse viewing opportunities.
Yes, dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Be extremely cautious about ticks, as they are prevalent.
Expect to see a variety of birds, and potentially other small wildlife. The preserve is a rich habitat.
Yes, it's a great spot for nature photography, especially for sunrise and sunset shots due to its open areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food facilities within the preserve itself. You'll need to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
The towns of Kennebunk and Arundel offer various dining options, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The open areas are perfect for sunrise and sunset shots. The woodland trails also offer beautiful, serene nature photography opportunities.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset provide the best light. Midday can be harsh for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no playgrounds or specific child-focused amenities, the preserve's natural beauty can be a great educational experience. Pack snacks and water, as there are no facilities on-site. The limited parking also means planning your visit to avoid peak times if possible.
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Nature Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Wildlife
However, it's crucial to be aware of the prevalent tick population. Several visitors have noted an unusually high number of ticks, especially after walking through the wooded areas. This means that while the preserve offers beautiful natural experiences, preparedness is key. Always wear appropriate clothing, use insect repellent, and conduct thorough tick checks after your visit.
For those interested in photography, the preserve offers excellent opportunities, particularly during the golden hours. The open spaces are ideal for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset shots, adding another dimension to the visitor experience.
Dog-Friendly Exploration with Caution
Despite the welcoming policy for dogs, there's a critical caveat: the high tick population. One Reddit user reported removing over 80 ticks from their dog after a single visit, highlighting the need for extreme vigilance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit