RICHMOND – Swan Island, in the Kennebec River, has opened for the season.
The island, pwned and maintained by the state Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, offers camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, educational programs and a variety of special events. Several features are available, including a larger ferry, kayak/canoe rentals from the island campground, new interpretive signs, docks at the campground and a 15 and under kids-only trout fishing pond with free equipment loans. Many different events will be held on and around the island throughout the season.
Visitors to the four-mile-long island may come for the day, or camp overnight in a six-person Adirondack shelter, as well as rent a kayak or canoe on the island and explore by water, enjoy 10 miles of hiking, or site-see from a mountain bike.
Known for its abundant wildlife, Swan Island is an abandoned 18th and 19th century town, Perkins Township, and has long been recognized for its varied history. Today, the island is managed for a variety of wildlife. Five of the historic homesteads still stand. The cemetery and agricultural landscape, along with old stone walls and other remnants, stand testament to the islands’ rich history.
Swan Island’s public visitation season runs from May through October. There are 10 Adirondack shelters available for overnight use; picnic facilities for day use; modern bathroom facilities at the campground; drinking water; hiking trails; kayak rentals and wildlife viewing.
A calendar of events is available at www.maine.gov/swanisland.
Visitors must make a reservation for the ferry and campground. Visitors may also access for day use by canoe or kayak without a reservation. Admission fees may be deposited in iron rangers. Visitors fees are free for those 5 and under; $8 day use; $8 a person and $20 a site overnight use.
