Ash Island
Owls Head
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Guidelines
What You Need to Know
- No camping permitted
- Campfires permitted (guidelines below)
- Carry out all trash (see details)
- Stay on established trails
- Keep pets under control
Why we Care
A Scenic Escape
From hiking to rugged granite ledges with sweeping views to paddling the surrounding waters in search of seals, waterfowl, and other marine life—Ash Island offers an idyllic escape filled with adventure. Protecting it ensures this special place remains open for generations of future visitors as well as a thriving habitat.
Features
How to Get There
Ash Island lies 1 mile east of Birch Point State Park in Owls Head. Day-use parking only, and boats must be hand-carried to the beach. Hand-carried boats can also launch from Richard Carver Harbor Park (Lighthouse Road). For larger boats, or a longer and more challenging paddle, use the public launch in South Thomaston on the Weskeag River. Rockland municipal boat ramp offers (including overnight) parking and all-tide access.
Currents around Ash Island can be strong—use caution.
Explore the Map
Click on trails and landmarks to learn more about what Ash Island has to offer.
Preserve Details
Property:
Town:
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Accessible:
Field Notes
Getting to Know Ash Island
The Path to Conservation
MCHT acquired Ash Island in 2010, thanks to generous contributions from many Owls Head residents and other supporters.
On the Island
Ash Island’s high point lies near its geographic center, with land falling off gently to the shore. Slopes are slightly steeper on its eastern side and more gradual to the west. The island’s dominant natural community is Maritime Spruce-Fir Forest consisting primarily of maturing white spruce. Other canopy species include red spruce, which is much less common than white spruce, and balsam fir, which is confined to a narrow strip along the southeastern shore. White birch occurs in and around clearings, which include scenic meadows of hay-scented fern.
Mink, white-tailed deer, raccoon, and red squirrel are known to inhabit the island, while harbor seals can be viewed basking on ledges just offshore. Dozens of birds have also been recorded on the island and in surrounding waters.
Stories from the Midcoast
Deepening Our Connections to Nature and One Another
Our stories remind us why we commit ourselves to the work of conservation. Here in Maine, nature is still big and bold enough to remind us that we are part of it. We want to make sure this remains true.
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healthy, open lands & waters
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Give your time to help
care for the coast
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Be a champion
for conservation
Spread the Word
More Information on Ash Island
Campfires on the Island
While campfires are permitted, it’s important to check with the town of Owls Head for local restrictions.
Guidelines:
- Must be smaller than 3 feet
- Keep all fires below high tide line
- Do not build fire rings
- Do not cut or break tree limbs, dead or alive
- Leave no fire unattended
- Completely extinguish all fires
Help Us Take Care of the Preserve
This preserve belongs to all of us; that’s why it’s important to leave as little trace as possible when you visit.
To do that, please:
- Carry out all trash
- Carry out all pet waste
- Carry out all human waste (including toilet paper)