Frequently Asked Questions
About Eagle Island
Please refer to the Corona virus update tab on the homepage for up to date information on visiting Eagle Island.
How do I get to Eagle Island ?
Eagle Island is water accessible only. There are several moorings available for personal water craft.
For 2020 Eagle Island launch service is suspended until further notice. The use of a personal dinghy is highly encouraged. Personal dinghies may be tied up to the north side of the float and kayaks may be kept on the beach above the high-water mark.
Are there restrooms?
Yes there are 2 composting toilets available on the island. There are no sinks, no running water or hand pumped water.
Please note: Eagle Island does not meets ADA standards and has major barriers. Mobility impaired people, even with assistance, will be unable to access the island.
Per The State of Maine:
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Overnight use of moorings is prohibited.
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Stay on designated trails. Trails are for walking only.
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Pets must be kept on a leash and under control at all times; please pick up after your pet.
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Fires are strictly prohibited on the Eagle Island. The Island does not have any grills or designated areas for making fires.
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Do not pick or remove anything natural: please leave it for others to enjoy.
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Enjoy wildlife from a distance: do not feed or disturb animals or birds.
When is Eagle Island open?
Eagle Island is a State of Maine operated State Park that is open from June 15 to Labor Day and usually a few weekends only through September.
When are the trails open?
The nature trails on Eagle Island are closed until July 15 due to nesting birds. Eagle Island is a bird sanctuary. After July 15 the entire island is open for exploration.
How much is admission to Eagle Island
per The State of Maine State Park fees, Eagle Island admission is $4.00 for seniors $6.00 for adults $2.00 for children
How long does it take to get to Eagle Island?
From South Harpswell, Maine it's about a 10 minute boat ride.
From Bailey Island, Maine it's about a 20 minute boat ride.
From Freeport, Maine it's about a 40 minute boat ride.
From Portland, Maine it's about a 60 minute boat ride.
What is there to do on Eagle Island?
Please note the house, the library, and the Welcome Center will remain closed until further notice due to Covid 19.
There are hiking trails throughout the island. Picnic tables are available on all corners of the island. The house is actually a museum and remains very much like it was when the Peary family lived there. Admiral Peary's library is also open and includes a polar bear pelt. There are many artifacts to see from Admiral Peary's North Pole expeditions
Are there events for kids?
The docents of The Friends of Peary's Eagle Island have developed a Scavenger Hunt that kids find exciting. A short list of items to find on the island and in the museum keeps kids entertained and a reward is offered no matter how many items the children locate. It's fun and educational. There are also trails to explore and a beach for swimming.
Are tours available?
For the current 2020 season the hand held wands are not available. The same narrated tour heard on the wand can be found under "narrated tour" at the top of this page. It remains a FREE tour and can be accessed through one's phone.
Is there food available?
There is NO food for sale on Eagle Island. The Trading Post in The Welcome Center is closed for the season. so it is advised to bring one's own water this year. There are several picnic areas with tables available for use stationed around the island. No fires are allowed anywhere on the island.
Can I bring my dog?
Eagle Island is a Maine State Park and the rules governing all State Parks apply to Eagle Island.
They can be found by visiting the State of Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands website.
What about souvenirs?
The Welcome Center is currently closed until further notice.
Eagle Island has a small Trading Post in The Welcome Center. Items are for sale such as: hats with the Eagle Island logo, The Arcadia Images of America book "Eagle Island, Admiral Peary's Harpswell Home" , coffee cups with the Eagle Island logo, stuffed animals, pins, and other small items. A docent will help you with a purchase.
Where can I get more information about Eagle Island?
Or contact the State of Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands.
