Located in the untamed heart of the North Maine Woods, Baxter State Park stands as a wild sanctuary, a testament to the vision of Percival P. Baxter. Between 1931 and 1962, Baxter’s generous land donations sculpted this wilderness wonderland, a sprawling expanse of over 200,000 acres, untouched by the confines of the Maine State Park system. The park is excellent for moose photography. It is just 200 miles from Portland and 71 miles from Bangor.
Here is some basic information to be aware of for your trip to Baxter State Park.
Editorial Update: January 2026
Photography Location Guides & Essential
Are you looking for a place near you to do photography in Maine? In the heart of Pamela Goodyer, an internationally acclaimed and renowned photographer, has curated the best locations and brings you all of the first-hand details.
We delve into the outdoors here at Baxter State Park, exploring this exceptional location to create dynamic pictures. Pamela Goodyer has been guiding photographers to the best locations in the world for over fifteen years.
We photographed Acadia National Park before heading to this location, about 116 miles away. We enjoyed the area, but went on a very hot day, so we didn’t see as much wildlife as we would have liked. But being out in nature and traveling is better than a day in the office.
We went on the New England Outdoor Adventure boat moose tour and stayed in their cabins, which we highly recommend. They are in a great location and offer delicious food in their restaurant, which offers views over the water. Check out the photos on thier website page and book your moose boat tour.
We list this as one of Photography Magazine’s Favorite Places to Stay.
SEE BELOW FOR ALL THE BEST SPOTS TO SEE MOOSE
You can plan to visit during the Milky Way season to do night photography and photograph moose on the same trip. In this remote location, the sky is filled with a blanket of darkness, providing optimal conditions for stargazing. Although any time during spring, summer, or fall offers good viewing opportunities, we chose to go on an extremely hot day when wildlife was scarce and uninterested in venturing into the viewing area. We were only able to photograph one moose at a distance, we believe, due to the heat. So, try not to go on the super hot days if you want to photograph wildlife.
Stay overnight at this location if you go during the Milky Way season.
64 Balsam Dr. Millenocket, Maine , for your GPS location.
ANYTHING ELSE?
Be sure to include with your regular photography gear.
If you like macro photography, here is a LIST of the flowers in the park.
New England’s Top Adventure Resort
We wouldn’t stay anywhere else! The New England Outdoor Center is the home of Twin Pine Cabins, the Penobscot Outdoor Center, and the River Drivers Restaurant. Voted Top Adventure Resort in New England by Yankee Magazine, NEOC comprises all the essential pieces for an unforgettable Maine spring and summer vacation.
Amid New England Outdoor Center’s sprawling landscape, endless summer and winter adventures await. On this particular day, we embarked on a moose tour, eager to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Our guide navigated us through a serene lake past thick forests.
As the sun beat down on us with its unrelenting heat, we couldn’t believe our luck as not one but two magnificent moose emerged from the treeline. Moose and other animals usually stay in the woods during intense heat. Their hooves splashing in the water echoed around us as they gracefully waded through the lake, pausing occasionally to graze on leaves from overhanging branches.
We did not list them in any particular order.
SANDY STREAM POND
At sunrise or just before dusk, the glassy surface of this pond and the framing pines make for striking moose photography. Many advise that there is a good chance of seeing moose here. To reach the trailhead for Sandy Stream Pond, Park in the Roaring Brook Campground parking lot. It can get busy, so keep that in mind. The trail is only 0.4 miles, so it is easy to get to
LITTLE NIAGARA FALLS
The surrounding forest mutes the roar of the falls. The falls open onto lush meadows that attract moose. Combine the cascading water backdrop with grazing animals for dynamic wildlife photographs. Don’t forget your tripod, neutral density filters and your wide-angle for milky water waterfall photography.
KIDNEY POND
This quiet, lesser-visited pond offers uninterrupted views and a high chance of moose sightings. The surrounding forest hums with wildlife—ideal for extended wildlife photography sessions.
SOUTH BRANCH POND
Hidden deep in Baxter State Park, South Branch Pond sits beside fragrant meadowlands. The open fields around the water are favorite feeding grounds for moose, perfect for candid shots.
UPPER TOGUE POND
Tucked away beyond winding woods, this pond boasts a mix of thick forest and open grassland. Its peaceful ambiance invites extended photography sessions, especially when moose emerge at dawn.
RUSSEL POND
A moderate hike through shaded woods brings you to Russell Pond’sPond’sf open meadows and thickets. The contrast between the forest backdrop and grazing moose makes for memorable images.
DAICEY POND
Daicey Pond features several footpaths leading to clearings where moose often graze. A telephoto lens and a tripod will help you photograph them in detail.
KATAHDIN LAKE
Surrounded by rugged peaks and towering evergreens, this lake offers sweeping vistas. Watch the shoreline meadows at first light—you’ll see moose moving into shallow water for early-morning feeding.
KATAHDIN STREAM CAMPGROUND
This campground borders several lush meadows and beaver ponds. Pre-dawn walks often turn up moose feeding nearby—ideal for grabbing a quick wildlife photography session before breakfast.
NOTE: The Park asks photographers with large cameras to be careful not to gather in ways that obstruct pathways and viewpoints. Although these spots are popular and easily accessible, the PParkboasts numerous other ponds and wildlife areas worth discovering.
BAXTER STATE PARK INFO
At the time of our update, Jan 2026, they still show 2025 fees, so check thier website for updates.
Entrance Fees:
Baxter State Park – $20.00, Season – $50.
Daily Park Conditions Report (Trail, Water, Roads and Fire Updates) – 207-723-9500
Reservation Office 207-723-5140
Monday – Friday, 8 AM-4 PM
Park Hours:
The park is open for day use from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
CAMPING
Baxter State Park Camping – All sites have natural water sources, and none have spigots. All water should be treated. This is a wilderness area. No cooking or sleeping supplies are available for purchase within the park. There are no showers, only outhouses.
You must check in at the gate no later than 8:30 PM on your first night of camping. Most campgrounds are open May 15 to October 15th, but be sure to check before you go.
NEW ENGLAND OUTDOOR CENTER – 30 Twin Pines Rd, Millinocket, ME 04462, USA
The rustic lodge in the heart of Baxter State Park welcomes weary travelers with the inviting aroma of freshly cooked meals. The rich scent of woodsmoke and sizzling meats filled the air as hungry patrons eagerly lined up to taste the park’s renowned cuisine. The chefs worked tirelessly, their skilled hands expertly crafting each dish to perfection. As the sun set over the towering trees, we gathered around wooden tables adorned with flickering candles and charming wildflower centerpieces. Amidst laughter and lively chatter, every plate was quickly cleared and every stomach satisfied. It was a dining experience not to be missed in this wilderness.
Lunch: 11 am – 4 pm
Dinner Service: 4 pm – 9 pm
HOTELS:
NEW ENGLAND OUTDOOR CENTER – 30 Twin Pines Rd, Millinocket, ME 04462, USA
See the images above. We only stay here when visiting Baxter State Park.
Acadia N.P. Thunder Hole – Milky Way Photo Hot Spot
