Swan Lake State Park

Jun 21

Swan Lake State Park is a small yet scenic state park located in Swanville, Maine, right in between Belfast and Bangor. I have a feeling this park is one of those spots every local has fond (or— maybe not so fond) memories of learning to swim, playing on the playground, or having a picnic with their family.

Picnic table and grill overlooking the water. — *Name: Swan Lake State Park*
*Location: 100 West Park Lane, Swanville, Maine*
*Activities: swimming, walking trails, playground, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking.*
*Dog-friendly: On-leash, but not on the beach*
*Hours: 9:00a.m.-sunset*
*Season: Memorial Day-Labor Day*
*Camping: No*
*Fees: Yes*

Highlights

The park boasts two large parking lots, one of which has a handicap accessible ramp that leads to the beach. Intertwining footpaths lead from the parking lots to the beach as well as various picnic tables that are scattered throughout the park. There is also a reservable group shelter, restrooms, and a nice playground. The crescent-shaped beach has a rocky shoreline, but it’s comfortable enough to sit or lay on. There is a designated swimming area with lifeguard supervision as well as private swimming spots on the Eastern side of the park near the picnic tables that are perfect for taking a swim with your pup. The park also offers kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals for $5.00/hour.

Large group shelter surrounded by trees.

Our Experience

We visited the park on a hot summer day and you could tell it was the place to be because it was poppin’ off. We parked our car, leashed our pup, and made our way to the restrooms to change into our bathing suits. Then, we walked down the footpaths to find a picnic spot where we could enjoy our lunch in the shade.

After lunch, we found a path down to the water from our picnic table and went for a dip in the lake with our pup, which was extremely refreshing. The rocks were slippery, so I would recommend wearing some kind of water shoe if you’re going to swim anywhere besides the beach. After swimming, we got changed and walked over to check out the group shelter, and then made our way back to the car.

Crescent-shaped beach filled with swimmers.

Swan Lake State Park is the perfect spot to beat the heat and cool off on a warm, summer day. Bring your dog for a swim, bring your kids for a picnic, or bring a book and enjoy a nice quiet afternoon on the beach! Either way, you can’t lose.

While you’re in the area, be sure to also check out nearby Moose Point State Park and Fort Point State Park, both of which are less than 30 minutes away!

Happy exploring, friends!

MyMaine