Damariscotta Lake State Park — Attraction in Jefferson

This state park is absolutely wonderful. It's very local, so not too many people show up to the point where the beach is overcrowded.

One of my favorite things about this place is watching the wildlife here; the ducks specifically. There's always usually 3-4 ducks roaming the beach looking for some food to feed their ducklings. Luckily most people leave them alone! They aren't very intrusive, they are just very curious! Beautiful to watch!

As for swimming, the water is very clean compared to other state parks like Range Pond. It's a very large lake, and boats are constantly moving around the place creating some nice waves for swimmers!

One thing to note about swimming however; it doesn't get very deep. I'm 5'11" and I can comfortably walk around without being totally submerged in water. One other thing worth noting is that the sand becomes very mucky the closer you get to the end of the ropes. That's kind of to be expected though since it is a lake!

One of my favorite places to...

Compared to the cold, impossibly rocky and bad dog owner infested ocean beaches in the area, this place is clean and stress free. Small playground, warmer water, and mostly sandy beach. Get here early, it does get pretty popular. The absolute best thing about this lake is that it's shallow for a long way out, so your kids can go quite far out. My 4 year old grandson puts on his floaties and can practise his dog paddles while I stay with the little one and just keep an eye on the older one, I don't have to be right next to him, afraid he's going to float out beyond my reach. There are no concessions at all, and no place to buy food nearby for that matter, so be sure to pack snacks or a picnic. The change rooms are family style with a toilet and sink, very roomy. I've now noticed that the people who are giving this place a low rating are the kinds of idiots that should be going to Birch Point State Park, they'll be much, much happier with no rules. Hope...

My Grandchildren and I love Damariscotta Lake State Park! Great sandy beach with picnic tables, barbecues, shady places under the trees, a playground and large pavillion and lawn for large gatherings. The sand goes all the way out everywhere you swim! The grade out in the water is gradual and the lake is large and beautiful! There are 3 bathrooms on the side of the building webused and may be more on the other side. They are large with flush toilets and a hand sink and a bench to sit on when you change clothes. The cost to get in is $5 for 12 - adults. 62 and older residents get in free. Younger kids are $1 and $2 each. No lifeguard this year it seems. You can bring all the floating things you want. Best public beach within 30...