Lake St. George State Park
Basic Information
Overview: Lake St. George State Park rests on the northwest shore of a spring‑fed lake in Liberty, Maine, halfway between Augusta and Belfast. It’s known for its crystal‑clear water, sandy lifeguarded beach, and 38 shaded waterfront campsites—perfect for families seeking easy swimming, paddling, and fishing.
Key Highlights:
- ✅ 1,017‑acre lake famous for landlocked salmon and smallmouth bass.
- ✅ Sandy swim area with lifeguards late June – mid‑August.
- ✅ Canoe, kayak, and paddle‑boat rentals at the day‑use dock.
- ✅ 38 well‑spaced campsites with showers, flush toilets, and a dump station.
Activities:
- 🏊 Swimming at the roped‑off beach.
- 🚣 Paddling along undeveloped eastern shoreline; trolling for salmon and trout.
- 🥾 Easy Shoreline Loop Trail (1 mi) and the short Ridge Trail (1.3 mi) through towering pines.
- ❄️ Winter camping, cross‑country skiing, and ice fishing when safe ice forms.
Amenities:
- Lifeguarded beach (seasonal) and playground.
- Picnic area with grills, covered shelters, and modern restrooms.
- Campground showers, potable water, and a dump station for RVs.
- Public boat launch adjacent to the park for trailered craft.
Trail Snapshot:
- Shoreline Loop – 1.0 mi, easy, wheelchair‑friendly stretches
- Ridge Trail – 1.3 mi, moderate, forest and lake vistas
- Old Baldy Summit (across Route 3) – 0.9 mi, 300 ft gain, big Penobscot Bay view
Best Season: Mid‑June – Labor Day for warm water and rentals; foliage cruises peak in early October; quiet ice‑fishing scene January–February.
Insider Tips:
- Reserve waterfront sites (#14–23) as early as possible—they book up first.
- Day‑use parking fills by noon on hot Saturdays; arrive early or visit mid‑week.
- Bring water shoes for the pebble shallows and a fishing license if you plan to cast for salmon.
- Leashed pets are welcome in the campground and on trails, but not on the beach from April 1 to Sept 30.
Nearby Hotspots: Camden Hills State Park (35 min), Belfast Harbor boutiques and eateries (25 min), Sweet Season Farm pick‑your‑own apples (10 min), and the scenic Appleton Highlands drive along Route 220.
Average Reviews: Visitors consistently rate the park around 4.5 / 5, praising spotless facilities, clear water, and family‑friendly amenities.