Where Maine’s State Park System Began
Aroostook State Park holds a distinction that no other park in Maine can claim: it was the first. In 1938, the citizens of Presque Isle donated 100 acres of land to create what would become the foundation of Maine’s state park system. Since then, the park has grown to roughly 800 acres, encompassing the twin peaks of Quaggy Jo Mountain and a stretch of shoreline on Echo Lake.
The park sits about five miles south of Presque Isle in Aroostook County, the vast agricultural region that covers Maine’s northern tip. This is potato country, and the landscape around the park is a mix of rolling farmland and dense northern forest. The views from the top of Quaggy Jo look out over both.
Quaggy Jo Mountain
Quaggy Jo is the centerpiece of the park. The name is a shortened form of “QuaQuaJo,” a word from the local indigenous language commonly translated as “twin peaked.” The mountain has two summits, North Peak and South Peak, connected by a ridgeline trail. The South Peak, at roughly 1,213 feet, is the higher of the two and offers the best views.
The main trail to the summit climbs about 600 feet over roughly 1.5 miles. The footing is a mix of forest floor, rock, and roots, with a few steeper pitches near the top. It is a moderate hike that takes most people about an hour to reach the summit. The views from the top take in Echo Lake directly below, the rolling farmland of Aroostook County to the north, and on clear days, Mount Katahdin to the south.
A loop option connects both peaks for a roughly 3.5-mile hike that covers the full ridgeline. The North Peak is slightly lower and less visited, but the trail between the two summits is pleasant walking through spruce and hardwood forest.
Quaggy Jo faces west, and the open ledges near the South Peak summit make an excellent spot for watching the sunset over the Aroostook farmland. In summer, the long northern Maine evenings mean you have plenty of daylight for the descent. Bring a headlamp just in case.
Echo Lake
Echo Lake sits at the base of Quaggy Jo and provides the park’s water recreation. The grassy shore has picnic tables, grills, and changing rooms. The swimming area has a gradual, sandy entry that is good for families with young children.
The lake also supports fishing for brook trout and other species. A small boat launch allows canoes, kayaks, and small boats. The lake is modest in size, making it calm and manageable for paddling.
The park is a local favorite for after-work swims in summer. The water warms up earlier than many Maine lakes because Echo Lake is relatively shallow and sheltered. By late June, it is comfortable for extended swimming.
Camping
The campground has 30 sites with access to showers and a kitchen shelter. Sites are wooded and reasonably spaced. This is not a large, crowded campground. It fills on some summer weekends, but reservations through the Maine state parks system can secure a spot.
The camping season runs from May through mid-October. In winter, the park shifts to a cross-country skiing destination, with trails groomed through the forest around Echo Lake and up the lower slopes of Quaggy Jo. Winter use is free.
Getting There
Aroostook State Park is on State Park Road, about five miles south of downtown Presque Isle on Route 1. The turnoff is well signed. From Bangor, the drive takes about three hours via I-95 north to Houlton and then Route 1 north. From Portland, expect about five and a half hours.
Presque Isle has a small regional airport with connections to Portland and Boston. Car rental is available at the airport.
When to Visit
Spring
Mud season through mid-May. Trails may be closed. Park opens for camping in late May.
Summer
Warm weather, swimming, hiking, and camping. Long northern days. Bug pressure moderate.
Fall
Foliage peaks late September. Outstanding views from Quaggy Jo. Cool hiking weather.
Winter
Cross-country skiing on groomed trails. Free winter access. Snowshoeing on mountain trails.
Summer and fall are the main seasons. September brings exceptional foliage to the Aroostook highlands, and the view of fall color from the Quaggy Jo summits is worth the drive. Winter use is growing, with groomed cross-country ski trails making the park a reliable ski destination.
Packing List
Aroostook State Park Visit
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes for Quaggy Jo
- Swimsuit and towel for Echo Lake
- Camera (summit views are excellent)
- Bug spray (June and July)
- Picnic supplies (grills available at Echo Lake)
- Water bottle
FAQ
Is Aroostook State Park really the first state park in Maine?
Yes. Citizens of Presque Isle donated the original 100 acres in 1938, making Aroostook the first state park in Maine's system. It has since grown to about 800 acres.
How hard is the hike up Quaggy Jo Mountain?
The main trail gains about 600 feet over 1.5 miles to the South Peak. It is rated moderate with some rocky and rooted sections near the top. Most people reach the summit in about an hour.
Can you swim at Aroostook State Park?
Yes. Echo Lake has a designated swimming area with a sandy bottom and gradual entry. Changing rooms are available. The lake warms to comfortable swimming temperatures by late June.
Is there camping at Aroostook State Park?
Yes. The park has 30 campsites with showers and a kitchen shelter. Camping season runs from May through mid-October. Reserve through the Maine state parks reservation system.
What does Quaggy Jo mean?
Quaggy Jo is a shortened form of QuaQuaJo, a word from the local indigenous language commonly translated as 'twin peaked,' referring to the mountain's North and South summits.
