Merritt

Merritt Island lies in the protected upper reaches of the New Meadows River just three miles north of the entrance to The Basin. This beautiful 28-acre wooded island has two campsites at the north end that are suitable for group use. The best landing is by an old causeway, known as Jacobs Gate in the deeds, that connects the northern tip of the island to the mainland at all but high tide. A 1-mile long perimeter trail makes a complete loop around the island, and a central spine trail connects the northern and southern ends. To reach the campsites, walk a short distance along the perimeter trail on the east side of the island. You will find the first site only a few dozen feet from the landing area, and the second site nestled among tall white pines and young spruce trees further down the path.

Merritt was given to the [Bowdoin College Outing Club](http://www.bowdoin.edu/outing/) in 1999 by the family of Richard Sanborn for use in Outing Club programming. The BOC has established a camp at the south end of the island that includes semi-permanent tents and other structures. Visitors are invited to explore the entire island, including the trail network, but please do not disturb the BOC camping area at the south end. During the last two weeks of August the BOC may need the northern campsites for student pre-orientation trips. Please consider an alternative destination during this time period.