Whaleboat
Harpswell area · Casco Bay
- Trail Trails on island
- Size ~125 acres
- Coordinates 43.758° N, 70.049° W
- Owner Maine Coast Heritage Trust
Description
[Maine Coast Heritage Trust](https://www.mcht.org/) acquired Whaleboat Island in 2002 with support from the community and the Land for Maine’s Future program. Whaleboat is long and narrow, with a topography that provides unique views of Casco Bay. Wind-blown spruce forests at either end of the island are separated by a large, grassy meadow and dense bay shrubs. The cove near the meadow provides great tidal bird habitat.
The island is popular with campers and day visitors, including those looking for an alternative to the busier Goslings or Little Whaleboat islands. Public use tends to occur at the northwest corner and in the meadow, which is accessed from a cove on the southwest side. Rough terrain and dense vegetation make the interior challenging to navigate.
Camping is allowed at three designated sites: the West Site is mostly forested and offers a fire pit and a few grassy patches for tents. A small trail connects this site to the North Site, which is available by reservation only and is best suited for commercially guided groups. It offers several places to set up tents (though the ground is uneven) and one 10 x 10 platform. Reservations can be made [here](https://www.mcht.org/visit-a-preserve/campsites/). Finally, the Meadow Site is located just inland from the shallow cove on the southeastern shore. The Meadow is a beautiful place to picnic or camp but offers no privacy nor protection from wind or rain. Groups larger than 10 please contact MCHT for permission at stewardship@mcht.org before camping.
Details
Anchorage
In the semi-protected cove to the northwest where the bottom is a mix of mud, sand and ledge. Near the meadow, boats larger than 20 feet should anchor just outside the cove, but be cautious as the cove is exposed to southern winds, the bottom drops off quickly, and there are ledges nearby.
Amenities
Hiking trails
Guidelines
Up to 6 registered campers. Two first come, first-served campsites and one reservable group site available. Campsite capacity: West Site, 6 people; North Site (reservable) and Meadow Site can each accommodate large groups. Two nights maximum.
Recreational fires less than 3 feet permitted below high tide line. At the West Site, please use established fire ring, otherwise no fires in campsites or in meadow.
Pets allowed on leash or under strict voice control. Pick up after your pets.
Respect wildlife and nesting areas.