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Merryspring Nature Center - A 66-acre private park and nature center with walking trails, stunning gardens, and an arboretum

Just a short distance away from Rockland sits Merryspring Nature Center located in Camden and Rockport. This is a non-profit, privately owned, 66-acre park and education center that has a pure mission: “To practice, teach and advocate sound principles of ecology, conservation and horticulture in order to protect our natural environment, and to provide natural landscapes and cultivated areas for public enjoyment.”

This mission is a direct reflection of its beginnings. Local horticulturist Mary Ellen Ross founded Merryspring Nature Center in 1974 in attempts to create a sanctuary where horticulture could be studied and enjoyed. This goal continues to be achieved and surpass its original intent with each passing year.

Today, visitors can enjoy walking trails, an informative and welcoming visitors center, an arboretum, an herb garden, a rock garden, a children’s garden, a bird and bee garden, a rose garden, and three different greenhouses. White-tailed deer are a common sight in the park, as are barred owls, ruffed grouse, and a wide variety of songbirds.

Merryspring Nature Center is located at 30 Conway Road. To get there, follow Route 1 to the Camden/Rockport town line. Just on the Camden side of the line, you will see Conway Road at the top of a hill, just in front of Subway. Then, keep your eyes peeled for the entrance.

Merryspring is open to the public every day free of charge. The Center offers trails through and around gorgeous gardens, as well as a variety of special events such as discussions, lectures, classes, and workshops. For more information, call 207-236-2239. Please note, dogs are not allowed.

Photo Credits (in order of appearance):
“Merryspring Park, Camden, Maine” by Dave Jensen on Flickr Creative Commons
“Merryspring Park, Camden, Maine” by Dave Jensen on Flickr Creative Commons
“Merryspring Park, Camden, Maine” by Dave Jensen on Flickr Creative Commons

You can view more images of Merryspring Nature Center and other Maine images by visitng Dave's Flickr page.