Public Reserved Lands
Maine's Public Reserved
Lands total more than a half million acres of wild lands and
are managed for a variety of resource values including recreation,
wildlife, and timber. Recreational opportunities include visiting
some of Maine's most outstanding natural features. Camping,
hiking, hunting and fishing in secluded locations bring a
closer understanding of our outdoor heritage. Visitors need
to be prepared for a rugged, remote backcountry experience.
Plan your trip by visiting our search
page. Please don't overestimate your abilities; public
reserved land units are not staffed as state park or historic
sites are and we want you to enjoy your trip.
The
Public Reserved Lands are managed
for multiple-uses under a "dominant use" system
which ensures that sensitive resources such as rare plants
and backcountry recreation areas are not disturbed by more
intensive management activities. There are 29 "units"
of Public Reserved Lands ranging in size from 500 to more
than 43,000 acres and many other smaller scattered lots.
Generally fees are not charged to visit these lands, the funds generated from
careful timber management cover the cost of managing recreational use. In a
few instances, units are managed in cooperation with neighboring landowners
and fees are collected. Unpaved private roads provide access to many of these
backcountry recreation areas. Drivers are cautioned to yield the right-of-way
to logging trucks at all times. General Rules apply to most public land units,
but please note exceptions on individual unit pages.
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