Saddleback Island
Stonington
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Guidelines
What You Need to Know
- Camp at established campsites (with restrictions)
- Campfires permitted (guidelines below)
- Respect privacy of people using cabin
- Carry out all trash (see details)
- Foot traffic only
- Keep pets under control
- Do not remove artifacts
Why we Care
An Island Adventure
Start with a careful paddle to Saddleback’s small northern beach. From there, you can explore the rugged granite shoreline on foot or hike the loop trail for stunning views of Isle au Haut. The secluded campsite awaits for a night under the stars, with a front-row seat to the sunset over Merchant Row, reminding us why places like this deserve our care.
Features
How to Get There
The nearest public boat launch, the Colwell Boat Ramp, is located just behind the Isle au Haut Boat Services buildings on Seabreeze Avenue in Stonington. Paid parking is available at Boat Services and at the Merchants Row lot at the corner of Seabreeze Avenue and Main Street.
Explore the Map
Click on trails and landmarks to learn more about what Saddleback Island has to offer.
Preserve Details
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Field Notes
Getting to Know Saddleback Island
On the Island
Acquired by MCHT in 2004, the 78-acre preserve sits on the eastern edge of the archipelago. Saddleback is made up of smooth granite ledges, a few small sandy beaches, and an inlet accessible only during high tide. A loop trail begins at the north side beach, where you’ll find a small campsite. There’s also a small, seasonally rented cabin on the south side of the island. Download a printable preserve map of Saddleback Island (PDF).
Protecting Resident Osprey
The western portion of the island’s trail is closed from April 1st through August 1st for nesting Osprey. While the remainder of the preserve and trail are still open, please be mindful of this closure and give the Osprey their space.
Stories from the Midcoast
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.
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healthy, open lands & waters
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for conservation
Spread the Word
More Information on Saddleback Island
Camping on the Island
Camping is only permitted at established campsites with stays limited to two nights.
The small cabin located on the island’s south side is seasonally rented on a limited basis. Groups of 6 or more and commercial use by permit only. Please call 207-729-7366 for more information.
Campfires on the Island
While campfires are permitted, they must be smaller than 3 feet. Check with the local government for any additional 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
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)