Reid State Park - Image 1
1 / 3

Reid State Park

4.8
·2k reviews·Georgetown, United States

Maine's coastal gem with sandy beaches, rugged rocks, and scenic trails, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

September mornings

Fewer bugs, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Reid State Park - Image 1

Reid State Park

Best Time

September mornings

Fewer bugs, pleasant weather

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Maine's coastal gem with sandy beaches, rugged rocks, and scenic trails, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful mix of rocky and sandy beaches, perfect for a scenic walk or capturing the evening light."

Vertical photo
TIP

🦟 Bug Spray is Essential

Horse flies and mosquitoes can be brutal in summer. Bring strong repellent, especially for the sandy beach areas.

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The sand can be soft and challenging. Opt for comfortable shoes, and be extra careful on slippery rocks. [:athletic_shoe:]

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mile Beach

Mile Beach

Sandy stretch of coastline

A beautiful, expansive sandy beach perfect for walking, running, or simply relaxing by the ocean.

Rocky Outcroppings

Rocky Outcroppings

Ends of Mile Beach

Dramatic rocky areas offer a textured landscape, ideal for photography and exploring tide pools.

Newly Repaired Boardwalk

Newly Repaired Boardwalk

Along Mile Beach

Experience the resilience of the park on the recently restored boardwalk, offering accessible views.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Bugs and Crowds

Horse flies and mosquitoes can be intense, especially in July and August on the sandy beach. Visit on a breezy day or after September for a more pleasant experience. Parking can fill up, so arriving early is key, especially on weekends.

Navigating the Terrain

Reid State Park offers both sandy beaches and rocky outcroppings. The sand can be challenging to walk on as it doesn't compress easily. Be cautious on the rocks near the water, as they can be very slippery.

Best Times

When
September mornings
Why
Fewer bugs, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
October weekdays
Why
Dog-friendly, peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Breezy summer days
Why
Less intense flies
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What I wore for a sunny Sunday at Reid State Park with pals🌞 How weird - and exciting?! - is it to spend time with friends again?! I’m slowly wrapping my head around the fact that we can do things again and with people outside our family and it’s SO STRANGE but man so good to see good humans. (Also this is one of the suits I bought at Marden’s a few months ago and it’s the best!) Swimsuit from ...
byjuliesharp
368 likes • 7.8K views

🦟 Bug Spray is Essential

Horse flies and mosquitoes can be brutal in summer. Bring strong repellent, especially for the sandy beach areas. Reddit

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The sand can be soft and challenging. Opt for comfortable shoes, and be extra careful on slippery rocks. [:athletic_shoe:]

running around Reid State Park with lovely Clementine was a definite high point in this busy season! 🏃‍♀️📷😅🌊🥹
kgabriphoto
24 likes • 807 views
day in the life of a gay mom in Maine 🌊🌲 We spent the day at 📍Reid State Park, one of our favorite beaches! Such a fun day with the fam! #maine #mainesummer #ditl #vlog #twomoms #lgbtq
_samholley_
5.6K likes • 108.7K views

🚗 Drive Carefully on Access Road

The road to the park can be narrow and one-lane in sections. Drive cautiously and be aware of oncoming traffic. Instagram

📸 Perfect for Photographers

The mix of sandy beaches, rocky shores, and ocean views makes it a stunning spot for capturing Maine's coastal beauty. Instagram+1

We made our first visit to Reid State Park, Georgetown Maine! Despite suffering massive damage from the winter storms, this is a Stunning park!! We walked mile beach... and got to be the first ones on the newly repaired boardwalk section! If you have never been here, we highly suggest a trip. Save ⏬️ • Location: Reid State Park, Georgetown Maine • Cost: State Park Fees Apply • Dogs: Not on t...
travelingmainers
391 likes • 23.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🦟 Bug Spray is Essential

Horse flies and mosquitoes can be brutal in summer. Bring strong repellent, especially for the sandy beach areas. Reddit

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The sand can be soft and challenging. Opt for comfortable shoes, and be extra careful on slippery rocks. [:athletic_shoe:]

🚗 Drive Carefully on Access Road

The road to the park can be narrow and one-lane in sections. Drive cautiously and be aware of oncoming traffic. Instagram

📸 Perfect for Photographers

The mix of sandy beaches, rocky shores, and ocean views makes it a stunning spot for capturing Maine's coastal beauty. Instagram+1

🐶 Dog-Friendly in Fall

Dogs are welcome during the off-season, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the beach. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Reid State Park for its stunning natural beauty, offering a unique mix of sandy beaches and dramatic rocky shores. The park is ideal for photography and peaceful walks, especially during the off-season. However, be prepared for intense biting insects during summer months and potentially challenging walking conditions on the sand.

"We loved our late fall visit to Reid State Park. A friend of ours recommended it as a lovely mix of both rocky and sandy beaches. It is a beautiful area, we saw a photographer capturing the evening light. The sand is different than Long sands, it is a challenging walk as the sand doesn’t compress in the same way as other beaches. It’s a shorter beach, .75 miles one way but it’s a very pleasant with a nice rocky area at each end that adds texture to pictures. It’s close to nothing but it was a pretty drive out to this state park. The restrooms were closed for the season but there was a clean port-o-let on the premises."

Amanda M

"Drove just south of 5 Islands, to the south, down a small "one lane" road, drive carefully. At the end there's a private property, just before you get to there, on the left, is 3 spaces marked fir disable parking. From there, there's a little path over to some rocks(BE VERY CAREFUL ON THE ROCKS, AS YOU GET CLOSE TO THE WATER, THE ROCKS GET VERY SLIPPERY) Keep an eye on kids if you take them here. Its a beautiful spot."

GlitterFactory 1

"We went the first week in October so we could bring our dog with us. It was quiet but the weather was warm and perfect. Had a great time. Beach is clean and peaceful!"

N N

What People Like

Beautiful rocky shores
Expansive sandy beach
Great for photography

What People Dislike

Intense summer bugs
Challenging sand walking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Reid State Park is located in Georgetown, Maine. Access involves driving down a narrow, one-lane road, so proceed with caution. Instagram There is a fee for entry, which varies for in-state and out-of-state visitors.

Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on busy summer days. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit

GPS navigation systems can generally guide you to Reid State Park. However, be mindful of the narrow access road as you get closer to the park entrance. Instagram

From Route 1, take Route 127 South towards Georgetown. Continue on Route 127, and you will see signs for Reid State Park. The final approach involves a narrow road. Instagram

Public transportation options are limited for reaching Reid State Park. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an entrance fee for Reid State Park. Fees are typically lower for Maine residents compared to non-residents. Check the official Maine State Parks website for current pricing. Reddit

Maine residents often receive a discounted entry fee. Specific discounts for seniors or other groups may be available; it's best to check the park's official information. Reddit

Reid State Park is generally open daily from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day. Hours can vary, so it's advisable to check the official Maine State Parks website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the park entrance. Advance purchase options may not be available. Reddit

While the main season for facilities like restrooms is typically from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, the park grounds themselves may be accessible outside of these dates, though services will be limited. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Reid State Park offers swimming beaches, picnic facilities, and hiking trails. You can also enjoy birdwatching, photography, and exploring the rocky shores. Instagram+1

Restrooms are available seasonally, typically from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Outside of this period, portable toilets may be available but could be locked. Reddit

Yes, Reid State Park has swimming beaches. However, be aware of the water temperature, which can be quite cool even in summer. Instagram

The park offers trails and the opportunity to walk along its beaches and rocky areas, providing a good experience for those who enjoy coastal walks. Instagram

The park is known for its bird nesting areas, so birdwatching is a popular activity. You might also see various coastal marine life. Instagram

🎫 🦟 Pests & Wildlife

Yes, horse flies and mosquitoes can be a significant issue, particularly in July and August on the sandy beach. Visiting on a breezy day or after September is recommended. Reddit

The term 'moose flies' likely refers to the large biting insects, such as horse flies, that are prevalent in Maine's coastal areas during the summer months. Reddit

The bug season is generally worst in July and August. Visiting in late September or October, or on days with a strong breeze, can significantly reduce bug encounters. Reddit

While wildlife is present, the main concern for visitors is typically the biting insects. Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially on rocky terrain. Reddit

The best approach is to use insect repellent. If the bugs are too bothersome, consider moving to a more exposed, breezy area or visiting during a less buggy season. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The rocky outcroppings at either end of Mile Beach offer dramatic textures and compositions. The expansive sandy beach itself is also great for capturing coastal landscapes. Instagram+1

Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) provide the best light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and warm tones. The evening light is particularly stunning. Reddit

The park's diverse terrain, from smooth sand to rugged rocks, offers varied photographic subjects. Capturing the power of the ocean against the rocks is a popular choice. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or isolating details. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet rocks and water. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check the official Maine State Parks policy on drone operation before flying within the park to ensure compliance.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Reid State Park offers a wonderful natural playground for families. Mile Beach provides ample space for kids to run, build sandcastles, and splash in the ocean. While the water can be chilly, it's perfect for a quick dip on a warm day. Instagram The rocky areas can be fun for supervised exploration, but ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are watched closely due to slippery surfaces. Reddit

Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds and potential bug issues. While restrooms are seasonal, portable toilets are usually available. Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as amenities within the park are limited. The drive itself, though narrow, is manageable with children. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape, Reid State Park is an excellent choice, especially outside of peak summer. The 0.75-mile stretch of Mile Beach offers a satisfying walk, allowing for quiet contemplation and enjoyment of the coastal scenery. Instagram The rocky outcroppings provide opportunities for more adventurous exploration and stunning photography. Instagram

Visiting in the late fall or early spring offers solitude and dramatic, often moody, landscapes. Be prepared for cooler weather and potentially fewer amenities. The park's natural beauty and the sound of the ocean make it an ideal spot for reflection and rejuvenation. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Reid State Park is a photographer's paradise, offering a rich tapestry of coastal scenes. The rocky shores at either end of Mile Beach are particularly popular for their dramatic textures and the way they interact with the waves. Instagram+1 The expansive sandy beach provides opportunities for wide-angle landscape shots, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Reddit

Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for unique lighting conditions and fewer distractions. The newly repaired boardwalk also offers interesting compositional elements. Instagram Don't forget to pack a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the ocean and wet rocks, and a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Reid State Park's Diverse Terrain

Reid State Park is celebrated for its unique blend of sandy beaches and rugged rocky shores. Mile Beach, the park's primary sandy expanse, stretches for about 0.75 miles. While beautiful, visitors note that the sand here doesn't compress easily, making walking a bit more challenging than at other beaches. This unique texture, however, adds to the park's natural charm. Reddit

At both ends of Mile Beach, you'll find impressive rocky outcroppings. These areas are fantastic for exploring, offering a different perspective of the coastline and opportunities to discover tide pools. However, caution is advised, especially near the water's edge, as the rocks can become extremely slippery. Reddit The park also features a newly repaired boardwalk section, which provides accessible views and a testament to the park's resilience after storm damage. Instagram

When planning your visit, consider wearing sturdy footwear that can handle both soft sand and potentially slick rocks. This variety in terrain makes Reid State Park a visually dynamic destination, appealing to walkers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Instagram

Dealing with Reid State Park's Infamous Insects

A recurring theme in discussions about Reid State Park is the presence of biting insects, particularly horse flies and mosquitoes. These pests can be quite bothersome, especially during the peak summer months of July and August, and are often most intense on the sandy beach areas. Reddit

Travelers often recommend visiting on days with a good breeze, as this can help keep the insects at bay. Many visitors find that the situation improves significantly after September, making late fall an ideal time to visit if you're sensitive to bugs. Reddit If you plan to visit during the summer, packing a strong insect repellent is not just recommended, it's essential for a comfortable experience. Reddit

While the bugs can be a deterrent for some, many visitors still find the park's natural beauty worth the minor inconvenience. By being prepared with repellent and choosing your visit time wisely, you can still thoroughly enjoy the coastal scenery and activities Reid State Park has to offer. Reddit

Photography Opportunities at Reid State Park

Reid State Park is a dream for photographers, offering a diverse range of scenic elements. The rocky outcroppings at the ends of Mile Beach provide dramatic textures and interesting compositions, especially when contrasted with the crashing waves. Photographers often capture the rugged beauty of these formations, finding unique angles and details. Instagram+1

The sandy expanse of Mile Beach itself is also a prime subject, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, diffused light creates a serene atmosphere and highlights the textures of the sand. The newly repaired boardwalk offers a different perspective, allowing for shots that incorporate man-made elements within the natural landscape. Instagram

Many visitors recommend visiting during the late fall or early spring for fewer crowds and dramatic, moody lighting. Even during the summer, a breezy day can add dynamism to your shots by creating interesting wave patterns and movement. Instagram Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping coastal vistas and consider a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare on wet surfaces. Instagram

You may also like