Public Access
Public Access
A Privilege Rooted in Tradition
Public access to private land in Maine is a longstanding tradition and privilege. Seven Islands commitment to sustainability and responsible forest management, along with the belief that traditional public use is compatible with the working forest, means that many people enjoy recreating on the lands we manage.
Hunting, fishing, camping, snowmobiling, and wildlife watching are some of the activities that are compatible with working forests. We ask that you recreate responsibly, carry-in/carry-out, and avoid areas with active harvesting while you enjoy your time on the lands we manage. While pedestrian access is permitted nearly everywhere, occasionally roads may be closed to vehicles due to seasonal road conditions. At all times, respect the landowner and other recreational users.
Our Northern Maine Unit is primarily located within the 3.5 million acre region known as the North Maine Woods. Please visit their website for important information: https://www.northmainewoods.org/.
Road Rules
The lands we manage have numerous private roads constructed at landowner expense and are primarily for conducting forestry operations and transporting forest products. Click here for some simple rules to keep everyone safe.
Camping
Camping is managed by North Maine Woods (NMW) or local campgrounds. Camping is allowed in designated areas only. Contact North Maine Woods, or our Bangor office for more information.
Hunting
Hunting is allowed, per state IF&W regulations, except in areas of active logging operations. Portable tree stands only, i.e. no nails in trees. North Maine Woods manages the bear bait program in Northern Maine or contact the Bangor office for other bait site information.
Snowmobiling
Groomed trails are made possible through agreements with snowmobile clubs. Responsible off-trail riding is allowed but please avoid all areas with young regeneration. Do not park in log yards or block logging traffic. Snowmobiling on plowed roads is prohibited.
Fir Tipping
Fir tipping for commercial or private use is allowed with permission. Please contact the Bangor office to obtain a license.
Vehicles
Use of motorized recreational vehicles such as ATVs, UTVs, or motorcycles / dirt bikes is prohibited on Seven Islands managed lands and roads.
Fishing
Pedestrian access to brooks, streams and rivers is permitted across our managed lands. Pedestrian access to natural lakes greater than 10 acres in size is guaranteed by the Great Ponds Act.
Other
Please contact us for other access or recreational use questions. Click here for more information on the uniquely Maine tradition of public access on private lands.