Fort Popham State Historic Site

Maine - The Way Life Should Be

Fort Popham State Historic Site

by J. B.
(Williamstown, MA)

Fort Popham Historic Site in Phippsburg, Maine

One of my favorite places to go in Maine is Fort Popham State Historic Site. Mostly because there are a variety of things to do here.

If you like historical sites the fort is a semi-circular fort that was never finished, even though construction began in 1862 for use during the Civil War. It has some informational plaques and it is several levels that the kids just love exploring. You are also walking distance from the site where the English first attempted to colonize New England in 1607.

If you enjoy beach combing there are miles of sand beach that can be enjoyed and you can see both Pond Island Lighthouse and Seguin Island Lighthouse from the beach.

There are also some areas that are great for those who love to poke around in tidal pools or climb around on the rocks. At high tide the Fort has what almost looks like a moat on its beach side and at low tide there are little tidal pools in this area to investigate.

I've never actually fished here myself but I have seen lots of fisherman in the Park and they usually seemed pleased with their catch. There are even charter boats that leave from the area that you can hire for either fishing or sightseeing. I hope to go on one of these trips soon as it looks like a lot of fun.

I am an avid photographer and Fort Popham is a great place for a wide variety of photo opportunities. Between the actual fort, the dock (where the cruises and actual fisherman and lobstermen take off from), the lighthouses, the beach, the variety of sea life (I don't think I have ever been here and not seen the seals out catching fish or playing), the small fishing village across the water and the beach.

There is also Percy's for anyone who wants to do a bit of shopping or grab a quick bite to eat. They have everything there from live lobsters, to beer, to t-shirts and shorts. If you are looking for a sit down meal there is Spinney's that specializes in seafood (of course). Both places are right on the beach and offer cottages or rooms to rent as well as food and sundries.

I think you would like the Fort Popham State Historic site!

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Fort Popham State Historic Site

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Fort Popham, Maine Great Family Activity
by: Liz

The Fort Popham State Historic Site certainly is a great Maine tourist attraction and a wonderful activity for families. Thanks for telling us about it, J. B.

For anyone interested in including the Park in their Maine vacation itinerary...

Fort Popham is located in Phippsburg, Maine, along the Kennebec River. The Fort is 10 miles from Bath, by way of Route 209, and 2 miles from Popham State Park. The historic site is open from Memorial Day Weekend (late May) until September 30th.

In addition to the great features that J. B. mentions, the Fort area also has picnic tables, restrooms and parking.

As for the lighthouses near Fort Popham...

The Pond Island Light is not open to the public. Although the island that it sits on can be reached by boat, it is a very difficult area for a landing. Therefore the best way to see the island and light is from a sightseeing cruise boat.

The Seguin Island Light (Maine's tallest and second oldest lighthouse) is on an island that is open to the public, but only accessible by private boat or helicopter. Since the island does not have a dock, boaters must bring a dinghy and abide by the "No anchor, submerged cable area" limitations and use one of five moorings.

Seguin island can also be seen from aboard local cruise boats that pass by the island on sightseeing tours.

Both lighthouses are located on islands south of the mouth of the Kennebec River, off of Georgetown.

Thanks again for telling readers about the Fort Popham Historic State Site. It's a great side trip on midcoast Maine vacations!

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