Lily Bay State Park is one of the most popular spots along the shores of Moosehead Lake. The 925-acre destination offers hiking, boating, fishing, wildlife, and more. Plus, it’s just 10 minutes up the road from The Lodge at Moosehead Lake, making it the perfect day trip destination!
Explore Lily Bay State Park
There are many incredible outdoor recreation destinations around Moosehead Lake, but Lily Bay State Park is one of the most popular. Most people just stop by for the day to enjoy the park’s many charms.
Established in 1959, Lily Bay State Park is primarily on land donated to Maine by the Scott Paper Company. The park is open all year round, from 9 am to sunset.
An Adventure for All Seasons
Once the snow falls, the park becomes a popular snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing destination. In the summer, it is a great place to hike, enjoy a picnic lunch, or even take a swim at the fine pebble beach in the crisp Maine waters. The park is also extremely popular in autumn. The fall foliage is stunning and draws visitors from all over to see the spectacular colors.
Know Before You Go
- The park is on the East Shore of Moosehead Lake, nine miles north of town, at 13 Myrle’s Way, Greenville, ME.
- There is a small fee to enter the park, but it is well worth the cost, as the money goes towards maintaining the park for everyone’s enjoyment.
- The park includes picnic tables, grills, and a playground for the kids.
- If you plan to stay awhile, pack lots of water and snacks.
- Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Visit the park website for more information.
Start Planning Your Day Trip
With panoramic views at every turn, there is no shortage of things to do and see while visiting Lily Bay. Whether you are into water activities, hiking, birding, fishing, or simply sightseeing, there is something for everyone! Check out some fun ways to spend your day at the park.
Boating, Kayaking, and Canoeing
Lily Bay State Park has two trailer-able public boat launches and slips for motorized and non-motorized boats at each end of the park. If you plan on canoeing or kayaking the lake, use caution when crossing large stretches of open water. Wind can be treacherous on a lake of this size, coming up quickly to capsize you. Small watercraft should stay close to shore for safety.
Hiking
Hikers will enjoy stunning lake views along the easy, 2-mile-long Shoreline Trail. As the name implies, this trail runs along the lake’s shore between the beach and Rowell Cove campground.
Fishing
Anglers looking to get some fishing in will find plenty to love about Moosehead Lake. The lake is home to salmon, brook trout, lake trout, and smallmouth bass. The salmon and trout are more active in the cool months, and the bass in summer. You can get a fishing license and learn about state fishing regulations online.
Maine Wildlife
Birdwatching is a great way to get outside and enjoy the local wildlife. Moosehead Lake is located in the middle of one of the most extensive uninterrupted forests in the United States, making it home to some of the very best bird habitats in the country, featuring:
- Thrushes
- Warblers
- Orioles
- Hummingbirds
- Loons
- Geese
- Bald eagles
- And more!
Grab your binoculars and get to birdwatching!
Other wildlife one might spot while exploring the park include foxes, raccoons, squirrels, white-tailed deer, and, of course, moose. For your safety, please do not feed any wildlife and be sure to keep a safe distance away.
Winter Sports
In winter, the park maintains a plowed parking area that gives access to over 5 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails. There are many places to ski, snowshoe, and ice-fish around Moosehead Lake each winter.
After your day trip to explore Lily Bay State Park, we look forward to welcoming you to relax and unwind at the Lodge at Moosehead Lake. Our rooms are serene, quiet, and oh-so-comfortable, giving you the perfect crossroads of wilderness and comfort.
Check availability today.
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