Summer: Maine offers over thirty state parks and choosing which one to visit can be as simple as figuring out what you are looking for and going. Some of the amenities to consider are whether you are interested in visiting a state park on the ocean or fresh water, whether you are looking for camping, hiking or just a picnic destination. One of the popular state parks in the southern part of Maine include Sebago Lake State park which offers fresh water swimming on the beautiful sandy beaches of Sebago Lake. They also offer 250 campsites, hiking and bicycling trails. If you are in the mid-coast area and looking for an ocean front state park you may want to consider Reid State Park. Reid was the first state owned salt water beach and has been a popular site since it opened in 1946. It boast some of the best viewing options for birding in its’ larger than normal sand dunes. The beach offers some great picnic and rock climbing spots where observers can see many of the nearby islands like Seguin, Outer Head and Southport. Further up the coast, you will find Fort Knox State Park located on the banks of the Penobscot River. This is historic fort is rich in history and visitors can explore the entire grounds. In addition, there are plenty of picnic sites to enjoy an afternoon lunch. The Penobscot Narrows Observatory is also available for visitors to enjoy the unbelievable views of the entire Penobscot River Valley. If you are in the Bar Harbor area than Lamoine State Park will offer you some great views of Frenchman’s Bay as well as camping, boating and fishing spots. Take some time to some of the areas lighthouses while you are there. State Parks offer visitors a variety of things to do so go explore one today!