Bring your bathing suit, kayak and/or fishing rod on your next visit to Maine, so you can explore and experience the state’s incredibly diverse and beautiful natural landscape. Scattered across the state are more than 6,000 lakes and ponds, offering plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation in the summer sun. Here are five of Maine’s best lakes, waiting for you to jump in and enjoy.
Moosehead Lake © Ken Cole | Dreamstime
Moosehead Lake
Maine’s largest lake, Moosehead stretches more than 30 miles along the western edge of Piscataquis County from Seboomook to the town of Greenville. Lily Bay State Park offers more than 240 campsites as well as a great beach for swimming in Moosehead and picnicking. Hire a float plane for a bird’s eye view of the huge body of water, or climb Big Moose Mountain for excellent panoramic views.
Echo Lake
Removed from busy Bar Harbor, the main part of Acadia National Park, is Echo Lake. The most popular feature is Echo Lake Beach, a man-made beach that is the most popular swimming spot in Acadia National Park. The spot offers beautiful scenery beneath the soaring Beech Cliffs and comfortable temperatures in the freshwater lake.
Sebago Lake © Joseph Skolnik | Dreamstime
Sebago Lake
Maine’s deepest and second largest lake is located about 15 miles northwest of Portland. Serving as the heart of the state’s Lakes Region in Cumberland County, Sebago is the source of the Presumpscot River, flowing 26 miles into the sea. In addition to excellent fishing for salmon, trout, bass and northern pike, visitors can enjoy a long stretch of sandy beach, swimming and picnicking at Sebago Lake State Park, one of the state’s five original state parks.
Sebec Lake
Put your fishing face on and get ready to get your rods at Sebec Lake in the central highlands of Piscataquis County. Spanning 11 miles, this picturesque body of water is known for its trout, salmon and variety of game fish. Visit Peaks-Kenny State Park on the southwest shore for swimming, hiking and picnicking.
Eagle Lake © Russell Holway | Dreamstime
Eagle Lake
At 436 acres, Eagle Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island. After swimming, walk or ride your bike completely around the beautiful lake on a 6.1-mile trail or explore the area via a kayak or canoe.
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