Ram Island
Machiasport
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GUIDELINES
What You Need to Know
- Camp at established campsite (with restrictions)
- Fires permitted (with restrictions)
- Carry out all trash (see details)
- Dogs are not permitted
WHY WE CARE
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
Ram Island’s rugged shores feature breathtaking views of the surrounding wildlife-rich water, but be prepared for challenging conditions as you approach. Once ashore, explore the grassy preserve, making sure to steer clear of the resident sheep. The established campsite near the western shore has a tent platform where you can enjoy a quiet evening under the stars and reflect on the importance of preserving these wild spaces.
Features
How to Get There
Ram Island is only accessible by private boat, with the nearest all-tide public launches located in Roque Bluffs, Bucks Harbor, and Jonesport. Be aware that the island’s remote location can be a challenging destination. The best landing beach in most conditions is the west-facing cove between the main landmass and the southern ledge, or you can land on the northern beach. While both areas offer some protection, depending on wind direction, leaving a boat anchored overnight is not recommended.
Explore the Map
Click on trails and landmarks to learn more about what Ram Island has to offer.
Preserve Details
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FIELD NOTES
Getting to Know Ram Island
The Path to Conservation
With support from the Maine Island Trail Association, MCHT purchased Ram Island in 2016.
On the Preserve
The 16-acre Ram Island is an entirely undeveloped, open island located 1.5 miles south-southeast of the Point of Maine in Englishman Bay (Machiasport). The island is grassy, supports just one tree, and its mile-long shoreline is mostly rugged ledge, including a heavily fissured stretch jutting out to the southwest.
While the island has supported nesting seabirds in the past, none have taken up residence recently. However, sea ducks, pelagic species, and a variety of migratory birds do frequent the island and surrounding waters.
A local sheep owner has kept their sheep on Ram for many years—a tradition that continues today. To protect the flock, large parties and dogs are not permitted. Please be sure not to disturb them when landing.
STORIES FROM DOWNEAST
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 Ram 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 human waste (including toilet paper)
Campfires on the Preserve
Campfires by permit only—must be smaller than 3 feet. Contact the local fire department for restrictions.
Additional guidelines:
- 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
Camping On the Island
- Camp at established campsite (see map).
- Limit stay to two nights.
- Commercial use by permit only. Please call 207-729-7366.