Western Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region is the home of 6 of Maine’s State Parks. These parks offer a multitude of opportunities for activities and fun. Check out the top 20 things to do in these 6 State Parks in the Maine Lakes and Mountains Region.

1. Hiking: Western Maine’s State Parks offer a hiking experience for all levels. From walking trails to difficult sections of the Appalachian Trail, beginners and experts alike can find a hiking trail to suit their needs. Grafton Notch State Park, Rangeley Lake State Park and Mount Blue State Park offer some of the best hiking in the state. 
2. Bird watching: If bird watching is your thing, Rangeley Lake State Park is a great spot. Of course you can check out the birds from any of these State parks, however you’ll have a better chance at the lakes or tops of the mountains, as most trails are fairly tree covered.
3. Fishing: Rangeley Lake State Park and Sebago Lake State Park are excellent for fishing. Just make sure that you have the proper licensing.
4. Camping: Mt. Blue State Park, Sebago Lake State Park and Rangeley Lake State Park allow camping. It’s important to check the website for rules and policies regarding camping and to see if you need to reserve a date/time.
5. Cross country skiing: A favorite past time of a lot of Mainers, these cross country trails offer Mainer’s something to do in the colder months. Western Maine’s State parks are perfect for snowshoeing as well.
6. Picnicking: Maine’s State Parks provide the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon picnic.
7. Hunting: Grafton State Park, Range Ponds State Park and Mt. Blue State Park allow hunting during Maine’s hunting seasons. Sebago Lake and Rangeley Lake State Park do not allow hunting. However an important note is to stay far from any camping sites and hiking trails for safety reasons. Also, there is no hunting on Sundays.
8. ATV Riding: Mt. Blue State Park and the Androscoggin Riverlands State Park offer trails for ATV riding. However, it’s important to note that you must stay on approved trails.
9. Boating: All parks except for Grafton Notch State Park and the Androscoggin Riverlands State Park have opportunities for boating. Be sure to follow all rules and policies in place, such as removing debris off your boat before launch and displaying a lake and river protection sticker.
10. Snowmobiling: Both Grafton Notch State Park and Mt. Blue State Park allow snowmobiling. Visit their sites for more information on trails.
11. Swimming: Lakes at these State Parks are perfect for swimming. Though Grafton Notch doesn’t have a technical swimming hole, there are areas where you can wade in the rivers and falls.
12. Scenery: The Western Maine lakes and mountains region offers unparalleled scenery. The top of the hiking trails at Grafton and Mt. Blue offer awe-inspiring scenery throughout the four seasons. And, the lakes are no different. Maine’s beauty can be seen and enjoyed at all of these State Park.
13. Relaxation: Enjoy the outdoors and all it has to offer!
14. Wildlife: Maine has an extensive wildlife population, keep a look out for Moose, Deer, Bears and more.
15. Snowshoeing: Snowshoes are excellent for hiking or walking trails in the cold and snowy months. They help you grab on to the ice and float on top of the snow. If you are doing some more moderate to expert level hiking you will want to make sure you have appropriate snowshoes or ice cleats.
16. Fresh air: Take a deep breath! Maine’s State Parks are well preserved and the untouched forests and clean lakes are a breath of fresh air, literally.
17. Canoeing: Many of Maine’s state parks are near/on lakes and rivers, such as Sebago Lake State Park, Mt. Blue State Park, Rangeley Lake State Park Range Ponds State Park, as well as Androscoggin Riverlands State Park. Many of the parks have canoes to rent, however you can bring your own as well.
18. Kayaking: If you rather kayak than canoe it’s a wonderful way to take in the scenery, watch birds, and relax on the lake. It can be a pretty good workout as well!
19. Horseback riding: Mt. Blue State Park offers several multi-use trails that are perfect for horseback riding. These trails offer moderate to challenging riding.
20. Waterfalls: Maine has some unbelievable waterfalls and many of them live in the Western Maine area. Screw Auger Falls is one waterfall that can be found in Grafton Notch State Park. These waterfalls are perfect for a picnic or for some exploring.

Check out the official pages of Western Maine’s State Parks:

Androscoggin Riverlands State Park
Grafton Notch State Park
Mount Blue State Park
Range Ponds State Park
Rangeley Lake State Park
Sebago Lake State Park