Fort O'Brien State Historic Site
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Fort O'Brien State Historic Site is located in the town of Machiasport, Maine and was first established in 1775 to protect the eastern coast of Maine during the American Revolution.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Today, the site is a popular attraction for history buffs and visitors who want to learn about the rich history of the area.
One of the main reasons to visit Fort O'Brien State Historic Site is to explore the well-preserved remains of the fort and its surrounding area. Visitors can see the original earthworks, barracks, and gun platforms that were used by American soldiers during the Revolution.
Other points of interest at the site include the Machias Bay Viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Machias River, and the onsite museum, which features exhibits and artifacts related to the fort's history.
Some interesting facts about Fort O'Brien State Historic Site include that it was the site of the first naval battle of the American Revolution, and that the fort was attacked and destroyed by British troops in 1814 during the War of 1812.
The best time of year to visit Fort O'Brien State Historic Site is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the site is open to visitors. Additionally, the site hosts a number of events and activities throughout the year, including reenactments, lectures, and historical demonstrations.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
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
Bad Little Falls Park
Roque Bluffs State Park
Cross Island National Wildlife Refuge
National Wildlife Refuge Moosehorn