Fort

This wooded island in the Damariscotta River was the site of a fort during the War of 1812. Nearly three acres were deeded to the U.S. Government in 1808 for a battery staffed by a captain and a volunteer force, to protect American coastal shipping after an embargo was enacted by Thomas Jefferson. The fort was very small and saw little action, which is fortunate because it had just one cannon and no cannonballs (the soldiers procured stones to fire as a precaution). The fort was discontinued after the War of 1812, and the island has been known as Fort Island since.

Fort is a popular spot for day and overnight use during the summer. A large, sheltered camping area can be found on the southeast point of the island. With its spacious campsites and durable duff-covered ground, Fort is a good choice for larger groups. Please note that the island has an established fire ring at the main campsite that should not be dismantled. Those looking for a quieter experience will have better luck on nearby Trail islands (for instance Hodgsons and Carlisle, which are open for day use only) or during the off-season.

If you are traveling by kayak or canoe, please beware of the very strong current that surges around the island. If you arrive on an ebb tide, hug the eastern shore of the river to avoid the large eddy. Stay on the eastern shore of the river until just adjacent to Fort, then ferry across as the current slacks.