Rockland Bog Preserve

Town: Rockland
Acres: 514
Miles of trail: TBD
Activities: Hiking, birding, hunting

The Rockland Bog Preserve features 514 acres of western woodland buffer of the Rockland Bog, increasing the protected wilderness in Rockland’s backyard, by 50%.

Why is the Rockland Bog such an important local resource? Learn about Rockland’s biggest, oldest, ecological secret.

The Rockland Bog is home to waterfowl, wading birds, warblers, deer, beaver, rabbits and other wildlife, as well as a floating peat bog with tiny orchids and carnivorous plants. For generations, it’s been a favorite of local outdoor enthusiasts, hunters and hikers. Since it is the largest peat bog in midcoast Maine, it’s a giant sponge that stores carbon, mitigating the effects of climate change, and protecting the health of the Oyster and St. George Rivers. And it’s beautiful as you can see in this video flyover.

The Maine Natural Resources Conservation Program (MNRCP) provided substantial mitigation funds for this acquisition. MNRCP awards mitigation funding to protect valuable aquatic resources throughout the state and GRLT was one of 10 awards in midcoast Maine in 2022.

Public Access

The Preserve is open to the public for day-use only; no overnight camping is allowed. Hunting is permitted with prior permission. While we assess the management and recreation needs for this preserve, foot and bike access is currently available on the Georges Highland Path via the Oyster River Bog section. This is a great winter outdoor recreation spot. In the warmer seasons, please take precautions to repel ticks.

Directions to the Property

The Oyster River Bog section of the Georges Highland Path is best accessed from the Jack Baker Woods parking lot.