Now that summer has officially arrived, we would like to share some of the places we visited in the past that you may enjoy exploring as well. First up is Sandy Point Beach Park and Trails in Stockton Springs, Maine. This beach is a dog friendly romp through maritime history, as well as a great place to observe the wildlife. Consisting of approximately 100 acres, this park has a long stretch of sandy beach, as well as almost two miles of trails through fields, woodlands and marsh. Located on French’s Point where the Penobscot River enters Penobscot Bay, this is an interesting beach to explore with your dog during low tide.
On the beach there are remnants from the area’s maritime history. During the nineteenth century this beach was lined with shipyards that built three-mastered schooners, and during World War I the government also built four vessels for the war effort here. You can still see the parallel timbers embedded in the sand used to launch these massive ships into the bay. Also visible during low tide is the wharf that once welcomed summer visitors by steamboat to Maine by way of the Boston-to-Bangor Packet. The more prominent pilings are reminders that this beach was also the location of a fertilizer plant that operated from the mid-twentieth century until the 1970s. Today, nature is slowly reclaiming these signs of industry, at this tranquil beach.
Speaking of nature, each year ospreys nest on the old pier posts. Please be respectful, and don’t linger too near especially if they are nesting. In addition, Sandy Point Beach is a great place to see eagles, cormorants, eiders, and other water birds. But don’t run afoul with the fowl! Give these birds their space as well. If you look across the channel to Odom’s Ledge, you may also be lucky enough to see seals sunning themselves on the rocks.
On the day we visited in 2018 we played on the beach, and did not explore the network of trails that are accessible from the far end of the parking lot. According to one resident we spoke to though, the trails are easy and take you over bluffs, through woods and wetlands, for a tail wagging adventure. There is a kiosk with a map at the trailhead.
Dogs are welcome at Sandy Point Beach Park and Trails, but should be leashed or otherwise under their owner’s control. Please do not allow dogs to climb the bluff, so as to prevent erosion. As always pick up after your pet and be respectful of the wildlife who call this area home. We suggest visiting during low tide because the remnants of the wharves are a hidden hazard for your dog under the water at high tide. We were also pleased to see that this dog friendly beach has a fully stocked first aid kit specifically for dogs, located under the bench at the entrance to the beach. There is a large parking lot at this popular beach for dogs.
To plan your visit, including directions, weather forecast, and more photos, visit our Sandy Point Beach page. For recommendations for other area attractions, including nearby Fort Knox, as well as scenic walks, trails and beaches, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.
