Lakewood

Tucked within the forested edges of Mount Desert Island, Lakewood offers one of the most quietly rewarding swimming experiences in all of Maine. Though it sits technically within the boundaries of Acadia National Park, this unofficial cove on Lake Wood requires no entry fee — making it a beloved local secret and a genuine gift to budget-conscious adventurers and families alike. Here, the hustle of Bar Harbor feels miles away, replaced by the whisper of pines, the splash of a clean freshwater cove, and the kind of stillness that restores something in you.

The Setting: Forest, Shore, and Shimmering Water

The landscape surrounding Lakewood is quintessentially coastal Maine — dense, cathedral-like forests pressing right down to the water's edge, with a shoreline that shifts between smooth rocky outcroppings and pockets of sandy footing. The water itself earns its reputation: visitors describe it in shades of emerald and sapphire depending on the light, catching the deep green of the surrounding canopy and throwing it back in rippling reflections. In autumn, those reflections become something extraordinary — a full palette of amber, crimson, and gold shimmering across the surface. Birdwatchers will want to linger here; the dense woods and calm cove make it productive habitat, and the patient observer might catch a kingfisher darting low over the water or a great blue heron working the shallows.

Swimming at Lakewood: What to Expect in the Water

As a freshwater cove, Lakewood offers the kind of swimming that feels genuinely refreshing rather than merely scenic. The water runs clear, with the natural tannins common to Maine lakes lending it a faint amber quality in places, a sign of its wild, unfiltered character. The cove's sheltered shape keeps the surface calm on most days, making it comfortable for swimmers of varying ability. The shoreline's mixed rocky and sandy areas give you options — ease in gradually over sand, or pick your way down a flat rock ledge and drop into deeper water. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise their own judgment, particularly with younger children near deeper sections.

Practical Information: Getting There and What You'll Find

Access is refreshingly straightforward. A short, easy path leads from the parking area down to the water — no rugged scrambling required, no special gear needed. The trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, which contributes to Lakewood's appeal as a family destination. On-site facilities include toilets and trash cans, keeping the site clean and comfortable for everyone who visits. No entry fee is charged at this location, even though it falls within Acadia National Park's boundary — a rare and welcome exception. The site is best experienced from late May through September, when water temperatures are hospitable for swimming. If you're planning to camp nearby, Acadia National Park offers several campgrounds — but book well in advance, as spots fill quickly during summer months.

Plan Your Visit

Lakewood is ideally situated for a day that combines a morning swim with an afternoon exploring Bar Harbor, just a short drive away. From there, the full breadth of Acadia National Park — its carriage roads, summit trails, and dramatic coastline — is at your fingertips. Come early on summer weekends to claim your spot on the shore, bring a picnic, and let Lake Wood's calm waters do the rest.

Lakewood’s historical use as a retreat adds a sense of timelessness. Its transformation from a nude beach to a family-friendly swimming spot reflects changing local norms.

Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve Lakewood’s delicate ecosystem. Dispose of trash responsibly and respect local wildlife habitats.