Gero Island Public Reserved Land

If you’re looking for a nature retreat that offers guaranteed solitude and great fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, you can’t beat Gero Island Public Reserved Land in north-central Maine. An extremely large island in Chesuncook Lake, Gero Island is accessible only by kayak or canoe. So isolated as to not even be considered a typical primitive Maine campground, the island’s shore-side campsites are perfect for overnighting anglers and canoeists coming down the West Branch of the Penobscot River.

Its water-bound isolation is not the only aspect of this public land that makes it unique. Gero Island Public Reserved Land also encompasses a slice of mainland property to the west – including most of historic Chesuncook Village, population 9! Originally a raucous logging town in the mid-1800s, and then a stopping point for trappers of mink, beaver, bobcat, and fishercat, Chesuncook Village is today a tightknit community that maintains an active online presence and strong sense of its historical significance.

Together, the mainland and island comprise almost 3,900 acres of forest, allowing hikers and hunters to wander to their heart’s content. The mainland portion features an official picnic area and several primitive campsites. An entrance fee is charged at this year-round public land, and in keeping with general store tradition, the one in Chesuncook Village can provide you with everything from a canoe or kayak to provisions for the perfect backcountry picnic.

Latitude: 46.074
Longitude: -69.377