Barred Island Preserve

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Barred Island Preserve is a beautiful, secluded natural area located on the coast of Maine.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and surrounding forests, as well as explore diverse plant and animal life. The preserve features a short, easy hiking trail that leads to a unique island accessible only during low tide. Along the way, visitors can see interesting geological formations and tidal pools filled with marine life.

Some of the key points of interest at Barred Island Preserve include the island itself, which offers an incredible vantage point for observing the ocean and nearby mountains. Visitors can also see a variety of trees and plants, including maples, birches, and hemlocks. In addition, the preserve is home to many different species of birds, including bald eagles and ospreys.

One interesting fact about Barred Island Preserve is that it was once used for farming and logging before being donated to the Nature Conservancy in the 1970s. Today, the preserve is a popular destination for hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts.

The best time of year to visit Barred Island Preserve is during the summer and fall months when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most vibrant. However, visitors should be aware that the preserve is only accessible during certain hours each day due to the changing tides. It is recommended that visitors check the tide schedule before planning a visit to ensure that they are able to safely cross to the island.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks