AROOSTOOK STATE PARK
In 1938, interested citizens of Presque Isle donated 100 acres of land to the State with the hope of creating Maine's first state park. This hope became reality is 1939, with the creation of Aroostook State Park. Subsequent donations increased the park to its present size of over 600 acres. Encompassing Quaggy Jo Mountain and Echo Lake, the park provides year-round recreational activities. Rising abruptly from the surrounding farmlands, the most prominent feature of Aroostook State Park is Quaggy Jo Mountain. Uplifted by folding of the earth's crust, weathered and shaped by glaciation through time, Quaggy Jo offers a unique chance to study our geologic past. The underlying limestone formations mark the presence of an ancient sea, and the mountain's outer layer of volcanic rock suggests a later lava flow of an unknown origin. Quaggy Jo is the shortened form of its Indian name "QuaQuaJo". A popular translation for QuaQuaJo is "twin peaked".
The park's natural areas are typical of northern Maine. Its forest consists mainly of a mixture of spruce, fir, beech, and maple along with younger stands of poplar, birch, and other hardwoods. In the park's low swampy areas, dense stands of cedar can be found.
A wide variety of birds and mammals live within the park. While squirrels and chipmunks are most frequently seen, fox, deer, moose and bear also rail the park "home". Birds of all types are found here, too, including hawks, owls and woodpeckers.
DAY USE FACILITIES
Aroostook's lakeside picnic area provides tables, charcoal grills, a swimming area and changing facilities.
The boating area offers ample space for parking, launching and docking. Canoes, paddles and life jackets can be rented at the Information Station.
Fees: Day Use:
- Age 65+ - Free
- Age 12-64 - $1.00
- Age 5-11 - $.50
- Under 5 - Free
NEARBY POINTS OF INTEREST
- The James School- A fully restored 1 room schoolhouse.
- Trans-Atlantic Balloon Launch Site-Starting point of the first successful crossing.
- Haystack Mountain- A short climb, with rewarding views.
- For information on these and other nearby attractions, inquire at the information Station or just ask any Park Ranger.
LOCATION
Located 5 miles south of Presque Isle off U.S. Rt. #1, Aroostook State Park is an ideal starting point for discovering the North Maine Woods, the Allagash Wilderness Waterway and the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Quebec.
Aroostook State Park
87 State Park Road
Presque Isle, Maine 04769
(207) 768-8341
Other Aroostook State Park Links
Aroostook State Park -
In 1938, interested citizens of Presque Isle donated 100 acres of land to the State with the hope of creating Maine's first state park. This hope became reality is 1939, with the creation of Aroostook State Park. Subsequent donations increased the park to its present size of over 600 acres.
Aroostook State Park Hiking Trails -
The 4 mile cross-country ski trail can also be used as a summer hiking trail. Some of the Park trails leave Park property and pass through private property. The owners have given permission for you to use and for us to maintain these trails.
Aroostook State Park Cross Country Skiing Trails -
Park boundaries are marked with bright orange paint and cross several trails. Care should be taken to stay on established cross-country ski trails. Snowmobile trail l.T.S. 83 winds thru the park. Use caution when crossing snowmobile trails. The lodge at the park headquarters is open to the public on weekends during the skiing season.
Camping at Aroostook State Park -
30 wooded campsites, with tables and fireplaces, are available for either tent or trailer camping. Reservations may be made by calling at least 2 weeks in advance: (800) 332-1501 from within Maine, or (207) 289-3824 from out of state. Campsites can be reserved only during the period covering June 15-Labor Day. Call the reservation phones, or the park office for more information.
History of Aroostook State Park -
In 1938, the newly created State Park Commission ( which had been formed in 1935) recommended that the State accept a gift of 100 acres of land near Presque Isle. This became Aroostook State Park, the first in the State Park system.
