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Maine
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Maine State Parks

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Maine
Mid-Coast Region
Durham State Forest
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DURHAM STATE FOREST
DURHAM STATE FOREST
Northport, Maine   04849
(lat:44.3734 lon:-68.9975) map location
Durham State Forest, located in the beautiful state of Maine, is a mesmerizing destination that seamlessly merges tranquility with wilderness. This enchanting forest encompasses sprawling acres of untouched greenery, dense woodlands, and vibrant wildflowers that form a captivating tapestry of nature's wonders. The forest's diverse ecosystem serves as a sanctuary for a wide array of wildlife, from elusive deer to majestic birds that enchant visitors with their melodic chirping. Adventurers can explore numerous hiking trails that wind through towering pine trees, leading to breathtaking viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. With its serenity, abundance of natural beauty, and opportunities for outdoor exploration, Durham State Forest is truly a nature-lover's paradise in the heart of Maine.
History of the Area
Durham State Forest is located in Durham, a town in Androscoggin County, Maine. The forest has a rich history that dates back to the early settlement of the area.

In the late 18th century, Durham was mainly an agricultural community with the majority of land being used for farming and raising livestock. However, as the demand for timber increased, the focus shifted towards forestry in the 19th century.

During this time, the vast forests of Durham were heavily exploited for their timber resources. The logging industry boomed, leading to the establishment of sawmills and timber operations in the area. Many rivers and streams were used for transporting logs downstream, and Durham became an important hub for the logging industry.

As a response to concerns about deforestation and the need for sustainable forestry practices, several forestry conservation efforts were initiated in the early 20th century. In 1912, the Maine Forest Service was created with the aim of preserving and managing Maine's forests. One of the results of these initiatives was the creation of Durham State Forest.

Durham State Forest was initially established as a state forest park in 1941, covering an area of about 730 acres. It was primarily designated to protect the forested land and allow for sustained timber harvesting. Over the years, the size of the forest has expanded to its current size of approximately 1,294 acres.

Durham State Forest serves as a recreational area for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife observation, and nature photography. The forest is also actively managed for sustainable timber production.

Throughout its history, Durham State Forest has played an important role in preserving Maine's natural resources and promoting sustainable forestry practices, ensuring the beauty and vitality of the forest landscape for generations to come.
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Directions
Durham State Forest is located in Durham, Maine. To reach the forest from Portland, take I-295 North and continue onto US-202 West. Follow this road for approximately 20 miles until you reach the town of Durham.

Once you are in Durham, turn left onto Royalsborough Road (also known as ME Route 136). Continue on this road for about 2 miles until you see a sign indicating the entrance to Durham State Forest on your right-hand side.

Turn into the forest's entrance and follow any posted signs or directions within the park to access different areas or trails that interest you. The state forest offers various recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and more.

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Maine
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Maine State Parks

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