You won’t find gold at Fort Knox in Prospect, Maine. But if you’re lucky you may see Golden Retrievers at this dog friendly historic site. Constructed between 1844 and 1864 Fort Knox is Maine’s first fort entirely built of granite. Yet it was never completed. Today it is one of the best-preserved military fortifications on the New England seacoast, with its unique architectural features.
Named for Major General Henry Knox, America’s first Secretary of War, who was born in Boston but retired to Thomaston, Maine in 1796, Fort Knox was established in 1844 to protect the Penobscot River Valley against possible future British naval invasions. However, although troops were stationed there during the Civil War and later during the Spanish American War, it never saw battle.
Well-behaved dogs are welcomed on-leash. Just be forewarned there are some areas of the fort that may seem a bit daunting for dogs to explore with it’s narrow spiral staircases, long dark corridors (bring a flashlight!), and echoes bouncing off the empty chamber walls. This holds true for people too. The echo of our dogs’ panting had one couple quite concerned. They were very relieved to finally see the source of the mysterious sound was two friendly Golden Retrievers, and not the menacing ghosts that they imagined!
Fort Knox is open May 1 – October 31, from 9:00 AM to sunset. The grounds are open year round for your visiting pleasure. There is a small nominal fee to enter. There is also a picnic area making this the perfect place to spend the day with your dog. Please note Fort Knox State Park is also the entrance to the Penobscot Narrows Observatory. Dogs are NOT allowed in the observatory, nor are they permitted to be left unattended in vehicles. So skip that aspect of the park, and enjoy exploring the history of Fort Knox with your canine companion.
To plan your visit, including directions, weather forecast, and more photos, please visit our Fort Knox page. For our recommendations for additional forts and historic sites in Maine, as well as scenic walks, beaches and trails, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.
