Folly Island
Bar Harbor
Jump to
Guidelines
What You Need to Know
- No camping permitted
- Campfires permitted (with restrictions)
- Carry out all trash (see details)
- Keep pets under control
Why we Care
A Hidden Island Gem
Take advantage of the short, well-protected route from Pretty Marsh Harbor to Folly Island’s inviting beaches and enjoy a relaxing picnic. Whether you’re just out for a paddle, looking to spot wildlife, or stopping by as part of a larger day of exploration, it’s easy to see why we’re proud to protect Folly Island.
Features
How to Get There
Folly Island is located in Bartlett Narrows in the town of Mount Desert. The closest public boat launch site is nearby at Bartlett’s Landing in Pretty Marsh Harbor. There is also a public ramp with good parking in Seal Cove. On the island, both the northern and southern shores have pocket beaches and good landing sites for small boats.
Explore the Map
Click on trails and landmarks to learn more about what Folly Island Preserve has to offer.
Preserve Details
Property:
Town:
County:
Accessible:
Stories from Mount Desert Island
World Fish Migration Day
Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT) will join partners and communities across the state on May 23, 2026 for a series of locally led events to celebrate migratory fish, river restoration, and the partnerships driving this conservation work forward. World Fish Migration Day activities will take place from York County to eastern Washington County on the Mousam, Bagaduce, Sheepscot, Orange, and Narraguagus Rivers, all part of MCHT’s multi‑year Rivers Initiative.
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 the Folly Island
Campfires on the Island
While campfires are permitted, it’s important to check for any local restrictions.
Guidelines:
- Must be smaller than 3 feet
- Keep all fires below high tide line
- 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)