(November 13, 2009) Maine Department of Conservation

AUGUSTA, Maine – Maine residents and visitors took to Maine’s state parks and historic sites with a passion this past season, according to year-to-date figures released by the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL).

Sixty days of rain this summer failed to dampen enthusiasm for day use and overnight camping at the state’s 47 parks and historic sites. Attendance to date has increased by an unexpected 6.7 percent over last year’s attendance figures.

Day-use at the state parks and historic sites has increased by a significant 7.4 percent, or 138,745 more visitors, through October over last year. Despite the bad weather, overnight camping stays at the 12 state parks that have campgrounds to date have increased by 1 percent, or about 2,000 more visits, over last year’s figures.

“This is excellent news; it confirms our belief that people love our state parks and historic sites and are returning again and again to their own special places,” said Commissioner Patrick K. McGowan of the Maine Department of Conservation, which oversees the BPL. “Such visits enhance personal enjoyment and well-being, create wonderful family memories and support our tourist and retail economy.”

“We are really happy with the way Mainers and our visitors continue to use our state parks and historic sites, especially when the weather is good!” Will Harris, Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands director, said. “We hope that they continue to make this a life-long habit of coming to our parks and enjoying them."

FMI

Jim's comment: "Next season will be the Maine Parks 75th Anniversary. We're looking for even more happy campers next year."