Clapboard Island East
Falmouth
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Guidelines
What You Need to Know
- Respect private property (all docks and moorings)
- No camping permitted
- No fires permitted
- Do not disturb nesting ospreys or eagles
- Keep dogs leashed
- Carry out all trash (see details)
Why we Care
A Perfect Gem Worth Protecting
The Clapboard Island East Preserve has relatively undisturbed maritime spruce-fir and pine-oak forests with significant well-developed understories. Unlike many other Casco Bay islands, Clapboard’s forests exhibit very few signs of human activity. This habitat has attracted osprey and a nesting pair of bald eagles. So pack a lunch, bring your binoculars, and discover why we’re committed to protecting this scenic
Features
How to Get There
The Falmouth Town Landing is the closest access for both motorized and paddle boats, although parking is limited and there are few spaces for non-residents. Portland’s East End Beach is just over four miles to the south and offers more parking, and paddlers may launch from Sandy Point Beach on Cousins Island in Yarmouth, just over four miles to the north. Visitors are welcome to anchor off any of the landing beaches.
Explore the Map
Click on trails and landmarks to learn more about what Clapboard Island East has to offer.
Preserve Details
Property:
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Field Notes
Getting to Know Clapboard Island East
The Path to Preservation
Thanks to the generosity of the Friends of Clapboard Island donors and volunteer group, donors to MCHT, the Town of Falmouth, and the Land for Maine’s Future program, MCHT now offers this 15-acre preserve just off the coast of Falmouth Foreside.
On the Trail
A casual hike awaits. Once on the island, take advantage of the preserve’s short network (a little over half a mile) of hiking trails. The gentle paths connect the preserve’s four beaches and lead to scenic vistas of surrounding islands. All the routes are well-marked and easy to follow.
Sharing the Island
Keep these things in mind while you explore:
- Give nesting eider ducks space to nest. Please stay on designated beaches between mid-May and mid-June.
- Watch for browntail moths. Many of the island’s oak trees have been infested in recent years. Please take necessary precautions—especially in the spring.
- There are two private homes on the island. One surrounded by the preserve in the north and the other on the southern half of the island. Please respect their privacy and remain on the preserve.
Stories from Southern Maine
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.
Be part of the movement
Contribute to a future with
healthy, open lands & waters
Donate Now
Give your time to help
care for the coast
Volunteer Now
Be a champion
for conservation
Spread the Word
More Information on Clapboard Island
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)