Portland’s Lake
Sebago Lake State Park sits on the northern shore of Sebago Lake, Maine’s second-largest lake and its deepest, with a maximum depth of 316 feet. The park straddles the town line between Naples and Casco, less than an hour’s drive from Portland, and it serves as the primary freshwater beach and campground for the greater Portland region. On a hot July weekend, this is where half of southern Maine comes to cool off.
The park covers roughly 1,400 acres along the lakeshore and the banks of the Songo River, which connects Sebago to Long Lake to the north. The main draw is the sandy beach, a wide strip of sand on a shallow cove that warms faster than the open lake. But the park also has over 250 campsites, nature trails through mixed forest, a boat launch, and picnic areas spread along the shore.
Sebago Lake itself is remarkable. The water is so clean that it serves as the public water supply for the greater Portland area, drawn directly from the lake without filtration. On a calm day, you can see the sandy bottom 15 to 20 feet down.
The Beach
The day-use beach is the heart of the park in summer. The sand is fine-grained, and the swimming area is roped off and supervised by lifeguards during peak season. The bottom slopes gradually, making it safe for children to wade. Water temperature in summer reaches the upper 60s to low 70s by August, warmer than the ocean beaches.
The beach area has picnic tables, grills, a bathhouse with changing rooms and restrooms, and a grassy area with shade trees. It fills quickly on hot weekends, and on the busiest days the park closes to new visitors by late morning.
Camping
Sebago Lake State Park has two campground areas: the Witch Cove area and the Naples area, with a combined 250-plus sites. Sites range from basic tent sites in the woods to sites that accommodate larger RVs. Some sites sit close to the lakeshore, while others are tucked back in the forest.
The campground is popular and competitive. Summer weekend reservations should be made as early as possible through the Maine state park reservation system, which opens in February. The best waterside sites book within hours. Midweek stays and September visits are easier to get.
Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring, and access to centralized restrooms with flush toilets and showers. There are no hookups for water or electric at most sites.
Trails and Activities
The park has several short nature trails winding through mixed hardwood and softwood forest. The trails are flat to gently rolling, suitable for families, and loop through birch, oak, pine, and hemlock stands. None are longer than about two miles, and none are strenuous. They are best used for morning walks, bird watching, or a break from the beach.
The boat launch provides access to Sebago Lake for motorboats, canoes, kayaks, and sailboats. The lake is large, nearly 29,000 acres, and offers excellent fishing for landlocked salmon, lake trout, and smallmouth bass. Sebago Lake is actually where the landlocked salmon species was first identified and studied. The fishing is regulated and a Maine fishing license is required.
The Songo River, connecting Sebago Lake to Long Lake, is a popular paddling route. The river is slow and winding, passing through marshland with great blue herons, kingfishers, turtles, and the occasional bald eagle.
When to Go
Summer
Fall
Spring
Winter
Practical Notes
Day-use admission is per person: $6 for Maine residents and $8 for non-residents, ages 12 and older. Children under 12 are free. Maine residents 65 and older are free. The fee is collected at the gate.
Dogs are allowed in the campground and on trails but are not allowed on the beach or in the swimming area from April 1 through September 30. Off-season, dogs can use the beach area on leash.
The nearest town is Naples, about 5 minutes from the park entrance. Naples has restaurants, gas stations, a small grocery store, and the Causeway, a lively strip along the lake with shops and eateries. The town of Casco, on the east side, has additional services.
Getting There
From Portland, take Route 302 West through Windham and Raymond to Naples. The park entrance is on Route 302, well signed. The drive takes about 45 minutes. From the Maine Turnpike, take Exit 48 (Westbrook) to Route 302 West. From Bridgton, head south on Route 302, about 15 minutes.
FAQ
Can you swim at Sebago Lake State Park?
Yes. The park has a large sandy beach with a roped swimming area and lifeguards during summer. The water is clean, clear, and reaches the upper 60s to low 70s by August.
How much does Sebago Lake State Park cost?
Day use is $6 per person for Maine residents and $8 for non-residents (ages 12+). Children under 12 and Maine residents 65+ are free. Camping fees are separate.
Can you camp at Sebago Lake State Park?
Yes. The park has over 250 campsites for tents and RVs. Reserve through the Maine state park reservation system. Summer weekends book up quickly.
Are dogs allowed at Sebago Lake State Park?
Dogs are allowed in the campground and on trails year-round. They are not allowed on the beach or in the swimming area from April 1 through September 30.
Is Sebago Lake warm enough to swim?
In summer, yes. The water reaches the upper 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit by late July and August, noticeably warmer than Maine's ocean beaches. The shallow cove at the park warms faster than the open lake.
