Swan Lake State Park is a small yet scenic state park located in Swanville, Maine, right in between Belfast and Bangor. I have a feeling this park is one of those spots every local has fond (or— maybe not so fond) memories of learning to swim, playing on the playground, or having a picnic with their family.
In this blog post, I share everything you need to know before visiting Swan Lake State Park—including what to pack for your visit, directions, park activities, the best time to visit, as well as several helpful tips for visiting the park and the yummiest nearby eats.
Name: Swan Lake State Park
Location: 100 West Park Lane, Swanville, Maine
Activities: swimming, walking trails, playground, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking.
Dog-friendly: On-leash, but not on the beach
Hours: 9:00a.m.-sunset
Season: Memorial Day-Labor Day
Camping: No
Fees: Yes
History of Swan Lake State Park and Nearby Swanville
In the 1970s, the State of Maine acquired about 60 acres along Swan Lake for development as a public swimming and picnic area. After several years of planning and development, Swan Lake State Park opened to the public around 1980.
Swan Lake was a well-known summer destination in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Swan Lake House, a hotel located on the West shore of the lake, offered guest rooms and meals on its wrap-around porch. It is expected that many vacationers staying at Swan Lake House swam at Wilson’s Beach (now Swan Lake State Park beach) which is also located on the West shore of Swan Lake. After the hotel burned in the 1960s, secret doors were found to be concealing moonshine that was stored during Prohibition.
Nearby Swanville revolved around the Nickerson and Damm general store, which was built using bricks from the local brick yard. Brick production was the largest industry in Swanville for decades. A local brick maker named Andrew Nickerson joined the 19th Maine alongside his brother, Alfred, in August of 1862.
Information sources:
https://www.mainememory.net/record/98842/image/98842 https://www.mainememory.net/record/109070/image/109070
Prepare to Visit Swan Lake State Park
Check the weather forecast to ensure safe conditions
Pack all the basic necessities, such as water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit
If planning on enjoying the beach, be sure to also pack beach essentials—a swimsuit, towel, beach chair, and sunscreen
Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the season and activities
Directions + Parking Information for Swan Lake State Park
Driving Directions
Click here for driving directions to Swan Lake State Park.
Parking + Restroom Information
The park boasts two large parking areas. One is close to the group shelter area, the restrooms, and walking trails. The second parking area has ramps that lead to the beach area and picnic area, which makes them both handicap accessible.
Restrooms are located near the group shelter area and the beach. There are also changing rooms located near the beach.
Swan Lake State Park Walking Trails
The park has flat, wide walking trails that connect the group shelter to the picnic area and beach area.
Swan Lake State Park Beach
The crescent-shaped beach has a rocky shoreline, but it’s comfortable enough to sit or lay on. The water is nice and shallow, perfect for young swimmers and families. There is a designated swimming area with lifeguard supervision. The park also offers kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals for $5.00/hour.
Swan Lake State Park Picnic Area
There are picnic tables scattered under the trees in between the restrooms and the beach. There are also small day-use campsites with picnic tables and private water access located to the right of the beach. These are perfect for anyone who wants to bring their dog and swim in the water.
Swan Lake State Park Group Shelter
The park has a large shelter that groups can reserve for birthdays, weddings, family reunions, etc., for $35.00. To reserve, call the parks phone number.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Swan Lake State Park
Best nearby eats: Toddy Pond Farm, Mandy’s Country Store
Best nearby ice cream: Maine Coast Creamery
The best time to visit: June through August, when the weather is warm enough for swimming
Not sure what to pack for the beach? Click here to view my beach essentials
While you’re in the area, be sure to also check out nearby Moose Point State Park and Fort Point State Park, both of which are less than 30 minutes away!
Leave No Trace at Swan Lake State Park
When it comes to enjoying time outdoors, remember the golden rule: Leave No Trace. It’s as simple as picking up after yourself, staying on the trails, and leaving nature just as beautiful as you found it. By practicing Leave No Trace, you help preserve the magic of Maine for future adventurers to enjoy, so everyone can keep enjoying the same beautiful, wild world we love.
Interested in more Maine State Park information and tips? You can find them all here.
Want more Maine travel inspiration? Follow MyMaine on Instagram!
If you love spending time outdoors in Maine, be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page (or click here) and subscribe to my e-mail list! By doing so, you’ll be the first to receive all of my latest and greatest outdoorsy Maine content straight to your inbox! And I solemnly swear that I won’t sell your e-mail to spammers or scammers living in their parent’s basement.
With love,
My Maine
