The Goslings

The Goslings are a beloved archipelago of islands and ledges popular by recreators, campers, paddlers, boaters, and sailors for good, protected anchorage, beautiful sandbars at low tide, and warm swimmable water great for kids. Thanks to outstanding community support, Maine Coast Heritage Trust purchased and permanently conserved The Goslings in 2014. East and West Gosling Islands are connected at low tide by a wide sand bar. This area is popular during the summer and can be crowded; have a backup plan and other destinations in mind when you head out.

Most boaters approach the islands from the protected north, as ledge and sandbars prevent good passage between the islands. All moorings are private; be prepared to anchor. In lesser weather, paddlecraft may land on the south end of East Gosling Island (to access the campsite); otherwise, paddlers use the connecting trail to land on the north side of the island and carry gear over the trail to the south end campsite.

Camping is permitted at three sites, one on West Gosling Island and two on East Gosling Island. The north site on West Gosling is first-come-first-served and has a maximum capacity of 15 people. The south site on East Gosling is also first-come-first-served, with a maximum capacity of 6 people. The north group site on East Gosling (maximum capacity of 15 people) is reservable and includes several picnic tables, platform, and often has a guide-provided rainfly available for everyone’s use. Reservation holders have priority in the group site; if you do not have reservations, you may be evicted by those with reservations.

These campsites are commonly occupied most summer nights so please have a backup plan in case you arrive to find all sites taken. Limit stays to no more than two nights. Camping is not allowed outside of designated sites. No potable water is available on the islands. A trail connects the north group site and south site on East Gosling. No trails are located on West Gosling.

Recreational campfires under 3’ are allowed below the high tide line only; no fires are permitted in campsites or above the high tide line. Do not cut standing dead trees as firewood!—if bringing wood to the island, do not bring out-of-state firewood. Do not build fire rings.

Dogs under strict voice or leash control are allowed; many years of poor dog (and dog waste) management led to dogs being banned entirely in the past.

Pack out all trash, debris, human, and pet waste. Be prepared with bags. Limit noise and respect the experience of other users.

For much of the summer, a resident osprey pair nests on the southern half of West Gosling. Please do not enter this area between April 1 and July 31, when the birds are nesting.

Groups larger than 15 individuals and commercially-guided groups wishing to use the island should contact MCHT (stewardship@mcht.org or 207-729-7366) prior to their visit.