Jed’s Island, Blue Hill
Located in Morgan Bay, this mostly wooded 15-acre island is surrounded by gravel beaches and a rocky shoreline that welcomes daytime and overnight visitors alike.
Jed’s Island is great for:
Kayaking – Launch your kayak or small craft and follow the well-protected route that leads to the shores of this scenic island.
Camping – Spend a night under the stars at the preserve’s campsite, which can be found near the island’s northwest shore.
How to get there
The nearest public boat launch can be found at the end of Wharf Road in south Blue Hill, just off of Route 175. As you approach the island, you will find multiple landing spots. Please avoid the northern shore from February through July, to avoid disturbing resident nesting eagles.
For a complete map with legend and guidelines, click on the Printable Preserve Map above.
Notes on topography, flora, and fauna
Located at the mouth of Morgan Bay between Conary Point and Newbury Neck, this 15-acre preserve in the town of Blue Hill includes “My Island” a 1.5-acre islet that is accessible at low tide.
Both Jed’s Island and nearby Darling Island were called Seal Island on a 1776 map.
Today, the surrounding water and ledges to the north and west are frequented by an abundance of harbor seals – please admire these marine mammals from a distance.
Jed’s Island received its present name in honor of Jedidiah Darling, a settler who quarried in the area.
Help protect resident eagles
While the preserve is open to the public throughout the year, the northern half of Jed’s Island is home to a bald eagle nest site. The area around the nest is seasonally closed from February 1 to August 1 if nesting eagles are present. Pack your binoculars and enjoy these impressive birds from afar.
How this place became open to the public
The island has long been used for camping and picnicking by community members. In 2007, MCHT and Blue Hill Heritage Trust partnered in the acquisition of the preserve to ensure these activities continue.
This place belongs to all of us. Help us take care of it!
Preserve information/guidelines
- Camp At Established Campsite (see map)
- Limit Stay to 2 Nights
- Commercial Users by Permission Only. Please call 207-729-7366.
- Fires By Permit Only – Maine State Law
- Contact Maine Forest Service at 1-800-750-9777 for permit
- 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
- Carry Out All Trash
- Including Human and Pet Waste and Toilet Paper
- Keep Pets Under Strict Voice or Leash Control
- Do Not Remove Archaeological Artifacts
