If you being outside there’s no shortage of places to do it than in Maine. From coastal hikes to mountain top summits you can enjoy any number of activities that range from simple to much more challenging. We appreciate them all, but sometimes it’s nice to simply meander around checking out the beauty that surrounds us. One great way to do it is by visiting this special nature center that many tourists just don’t prioritize. You’re likely to find it pleasantly peaceful!
To get up-close to Maine’s ecology and nature you’ll want to visit Merryspring Nature Center in Camden. Their mission is to teach visitors about the ecology of Maine while advocating for its preservation and care.
Kimberly Benford / Google
The gardens here are beautiful and worth a visit if you simply love to be surrounded by plants and flowers. But it’s also one of the only places you can visit in the state that offers activities for outdoor lovers.
Merryspring Nature Center / Facebook
The nature center is about 66 acres and offers large fields, a number of hiking trails, an arboretum, and even cross-country skiing trails in the winter.
Merryspring Nature Center / Facebook
There’s plenty to do, but if you’re the curious type you’ll really appreciate the educational opportunities that exist here.
Merryspring Nature Center / Facebook
During normal years there are a number of workshops you can attend. While 2020 has been a bit different, there’s still a lot to experience and we expect that things will get back to normal.
Merryspring Nature Center / Facebook
You can also enjoy group tours around the nature center allowing for some of the best bird watching in the state.
Merryspring Nature Center / Google
There’s a ton of wildlife here and if you keep your eyes open, there’s a good chance you’ll spot something unexpected!
Merryspring Nature Center / Google
While many outdoor centers in Maine offer activities during the warmer months, we love that Merryspring thrives even in the winter. You can enjoy the grounds and when it’s time, we love the Winter Ecology Festival.
Merryspring Nature Center / Facebook
This place just keeps getting better. And over the years, it’s evolved to become a one-stop-shop for just about anything related to nature.
New hiking trails were added throughout the 1970s. The Kitty Todd Arboretum came to be in 1980. In 1984, the Herb Garden was begun, followed by the Rose Garden and Rose Cottage in 1987 and the Perennial Border in 1992.
Merryspring Nature Center / Facebook
For more than 40 years, Merryspring has continued to grow — adding new places to find some peace and quiet as well as exploration opportunities.
Merryspring Nature Center / Facebook Today, more than 500 members and volunteers continually work to add to the garden’s beauty. We’re thankful for them and know you’ll feel the same way when you visit!
Merryspring Nature Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 8 a.m.to7p.m. You can learn more about them by checking out their website. Or, you can visit them on Facebook. They can be reached on 207-236-2239.
Kimberly Benford / Google
Merryspring Nature Center / Facebook
Merryspring Nature Center / Google
Today, more than 500 members and volunteers continually work to add to the garden’s beauty. We’re thankful for them and know you’ll feel the same way when you visit!
Looking for more places that might have fewer people visiting? Here are 10 hidden places in Maine only locals know about.
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Address: Merryspring Nature Center, 30 Conway Rd, Camden, ME 04843, USA
