The United States Park Service operates many great parks across the country, and even one in another country. If you are in the mood for a different type of vacation this year, check this one out. Be sure to check all the restrictions and requirements. This is a great family place and you can even bring the dog., but remember to keep the dog on a leash at all times, no exceptions. This is a wilderness retreat and there are wild animals including bears and you do not want to see your pet taking off into the woods trying to catch one.
Roosevelt Campobello International Park
http://www.nps.gov/roca/
This is one of the most unusual and beautiful of our National Parks. It is operated by both the United States and Canada. President Roosevelt loved Campobello. It was his favorite place to come to get away from everything. Today you can visit the “cottage” he shared with Eleanor and their family. But that is not all there is to do, although it is really a must see for you to get a feel for just how important Campobello is to the history of the United States. And there are no entrance fees or fees of any kind and that can make a very big difference indeed.
The park itself is over 2,800 acres of Maine and Canada landscape and if you are familiar with the coast of Maine, you know how beautiful the rocky cliffs are. There are nine different marked hiking trails that roam through woods and meadows and to the most beautiful view of the Atlantic from high a top the cliffs. This is truly a natures lovers paradise. After you view the introductory video and tour Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s magnificent summer home, step outside and enjoy the Park’s annual flower gardens and relax on Park grounds. Bring your binoculars, there are many species of birds that you will never see in the city. Take part in self-guiding tours of our Friar’s Head Trail and of Eagle Hill Bog. Join outdoor interpreters on Park grounds and at Eagle Hill Bog. Visit the Park’s Mulholland Point Lighthouse and watch harbor seals. Picnic at the Visitor Center, Friar’s Head, Mulholland Point, or other sites scattered throughout the Park’s Natural Area. Stroll along the beach at Herring Cove, Raccoon Beach, or Lower Duck Pond. Drive to scenic lookouts and magnificent vistas. Launch your sea kayak from several locations within the Park. There is enough going on here to keep you busy for two vacations and then some.
Campobello Island is actually in Canada, so remember you will have to pass through customs and be sure to bring proper identity for everyone. Passports are not required, but be sure to bring a birth certificate.
You cannot camp on the grounds themselves, but there is an excellent camp ground literally next door at Herring Cove Provincial Park http://www.campobello.com/herring.html, which has some pretty great activities of its own including a beach and a gold course. There are only 76 campsites so be sure to make your plans early.
