With more coastline than California, Maine has plenty of options for an ocean dip. But, in the summer things can get a little hectic, even by non-Maine standards! Rather than making another beach trip this season, consider heading to one of our lakes. The lesser known ones are far less crowded and you’re likely to enjoy warmer water temperatures as well.

You may know Camden as a tourist filled mid coast town, but there’s more to it than that!

romanboed / Flickr

Yes, there’s even more to it than the picturesque harbor!

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Nearby Camden is where you’ll find Megunticook Lake, which often gets overshadowed by the nearby Camden Hills as well as the waterfront town.

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While there are other activities in the area, we think Megunticook is worthy of its own visit.

Etienne P / TripAdvisor

The lake encompasses more than 1,300 acres, making it the largest in Knox county by both volume and overall area.

Amy W / TripAdvisor

And, Mount Megunticook overlooks it on the east shore.

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If you’re planning on visiting the lake for a day, we recommend heading straight for the beach at Barrett’s Cove Park.

Djordje V / TripAdvisor

The park has easy parking, allowing visitors to access designated swimming areas for kids along with an off-shore dock for bigger kids!

Mark Beale / YouTube

There’s also a grassy area for picnics and volleyball.

Djordje V / TripAdvisor

The view of the nearby hills are unrivaled, making Megunticook Lake the perfect destination for those who love the many different landscapes of Maine.

Mark Beale / YouTube

To get a better sense of what the beach at Barrett’s Cove Park looks like, check out this video:

romanboed / Flickr

maureen_lederhos / Flickr

Fyn Kynd / Flickr

Etienne P / TripAdvisor

Amy W / TripAdvisor

athrasher / Flickr

Djordje V / TripAdvisor

Mark Beale / YouTube

For 9 more awesome Maine lakes to visit, check out this article!

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