Range Ponds State Park

Overview: Range Ponds State Park wraps around the eastern end of Lower Range Pond in Poland, Maine, covering about 740 acres of forested shoreline and sandy beach. Established in 1965, the park offers a mix of swimming, boating, hiking, and fishing in a peaceful lakeside setting.

Key Highlights: 

• ✅ Sandy swim beach on Lower Range Pond with lifeguards in summer
• ✅ Public boat launch for canoes and small motorboats (10 hp limit)
• ✅ Over six miles of trails, including the 1.2 mi Range Pond Loop
• ✅ Mountain‑bike single‑track loops built by local volunteers

Activities: 

• 🏊 Swimming in the designated swim area
• 🚣 Paddling and boating (motor limit 10 hp)
• 🥾 Hiking family‑friendly loops and forest trails
• 🚵 Mountain biking on volunteer‑maintained single track
• 🎣 Fishing for trout and bass with early‑entry permits

Amenities: 

• Pit toilets and picnic tables near the beach
• Hot showers and flush toilets at the beach house
• Potable water spigots and RV dump station
• Group picnic shelter and resource room (reservation required)

Trail Snapshot: 

• Range Pond Loop – 1.2 mi loop, easy, lake views
• East Ridge Trail – 1.8 mi, moderate, ridge panorama
• Rock Rings Trail – 1.5 mi, moderate, rock outcrop overlooks

Best Season: Late May – early September for full summer services and lifeguards; peak foliage in October; winter ice‑fishing and snowshoeing (no services).

Insider Tips: 

• Arrive before 10 a.m. on weekends to secure beach parking
• Purchase an early‑entry fishing permit at the beach house for pre‑opening access
• Bring insect repellent—blackflies peak in June
• Leashed pets are welcome on trails but not on the swim beach mid‑June through early September
• Download the park map in advance—cell service is spotty

Nearby Hotspots: Poland Spring Historic Inn (5 min), Sebago Lake State Park (30 min), Range Pond Golf Course (2 min).

Average Reviews: Visitors rate the park around 4.4 / 5, praising its clean beach and well‑maintained trails.