Stave Island
Gouldsboro
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Guidelines
What You Need to Know
- Camp at established campsite (with restrictions)
- Campfires permitted (with restrictions)
- Carry out all trash (see details)
- Keep pets under control
- Respect privacy of preserve neighbors
- Do not remove archaeological artifacts
- Hunting stands and game cameras by permission only (see more)
Why we Care
An Inviting Landscape
Anchor off Stave Island and enjoy a relaxing picnic on one of the preserve’s pebble and cobble beaches. From there, explore the informal footpaths, or follow the short trail from the east-side picnic area south along the coastline to an overlook with stunning harbor views. After a day of discovery, settle in for a night of camping under the stars and experience why this island is worth protecting.
Features
How to Get There
The shortest access is from the harbor and boat launch in South Gouldsboro, but the preserve is also easily accessible from the many boat launches around Frenchman Bay.
Explore the Map
Click on trails and landmarks to learn more about what Stave Island has to offer.
Preserve Details
Property:
Town:
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Accessible:
Field Notes
Getting to Know Stave Island
The Path to Conservation
MCHT acquired the land that makes up Stave Island Preserve in stages. The first 80 acres were conserved in 2002, 25 more were added in 2009, and the final 16 acres were acquired in 2016.
On the Preserve
The 121-acre preserve covers the southern tip of 499-acre Stave Island in eastern Frenchman Bay. Blanketed by spruce and fir, the island rises moderately to a highpoint of 147 feet. Stave is highly scenic and can be enjoyed from public vantage points in Acadia National Park and by boaters in the bay. The land north of the preserve is privately owned, but the bulk of it is protected with conservation easements held by MCHT.
Stories from Mount Desert Island
How We’re Restoring Marshes
Many tidal marshes in Maine aren’t working the way they’re supposed to, but through restoration we can improve chances of successful marsh migration as sea levels rise in the decades to come.
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 Stave Island
Camping on the Island
- Camping is only permitted at the established campsite (see map).
- Limit stay to two nights.
- Commercial use by permit only. Please call 207-729-7366.
Campfires on the Island
Campfires are permitted, but must be smaller than three feet. Check with the local government for any additional restrictions.
Additional restrictions:
- Keep all fires below high tide line (or in established fire ring near picnic area)
- Do not build additional fire rings
- Do not cut or break tree limbs, dead or alive
- Leave no fire unattended
- Completely extinguish all fires
Hunting on the Island
Tree stands and game cameras by permission only.
- Tree stands and game cameras must be clearly labeled in accordance with state law
- Tree stands may not be left on the preserve year-round
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)