Steff D.
Yelp
I feel the need to preface all of my nature reviews with this: being 90% forested and having around 3500 miles of coastline, Maine has a tremendous amount of spaces, walkways, paths, and trails of all kinds and of all levels. There's something for everyone. What I'm reviewing is how a spot compares to similar outdoor spots in my personal opinion. Being in nature - and remembering to carry in, carry out - is always five stars! :)
Parking? Yes.
Loop trail? Yes.
Well marked signs? Yes.
Element of surprise? Yes.
There are so many places in Maine that are absolutely breathtaking, and Camden Hills State Park is one of them. One of the best ones, if I'm being totally honest!
Much like Cadillac in Acadia, if you want to hike to scenic views... you can. If you want to drive right to the top for those same scenic views... you can. Either way, CHSP is renowned for its panoramic views of Camden Harbor, Penobscot Bay, and the surrounding islands from the top of Mt. Battie (we watched the ferry go Rockland to Vinalhaven the last time we were here too!).
The state park is 5,700 acres and offers a 30 mile network of multi-use trails. Mt Battie rises about 800 feet above sea level (side note: you can hike Mount Megunticook [which connects to Adams Lookout Trail ad Tablelands Trail] - a Natural Heritage Hike and the highest of the Camden Hills - which is closer to 1,400 feet for more of a challenge; there's also Maiden Cliff Trail - a natural rock outcropping formation - which will bring you over Megunticook Lake and ends with a cross monument dedicated to 12-year old Elenora French who fell to her death in 1864 when trying to catch her wind-blown hat). There's a stone tower at the top of Mt Battie (as well as some outhouses) built in 1921 that you can climb, and there's lots of surrounding area on the rocks nearby to enjoy a picnic from while overlooking Camden Harbor below.
From the abundance of blossoms in the spring, the thousand shades of green in summer, and the vibrant foliage of autumn... whenever you come it is sure to be spectacular.