Stover's Point Preserve consists of 4+ acres of salt marsh and gravel beach on the western shore of Harpswell Sound. Originally deeded to the Nature Conservancy in 1970 by the Huston family, it was subsequently transferred to the Harpswell Garden Club in March of 1971, which provided stewardship for the property until its transfer to HHLT in April of 2000. The crescent shaped gravel, sand, and broken ledge beach is a federally designated "Coastal Barrier Zone" which separates Harpswell Sound and Harpswell Cove (aka Stover's Cove) from a tidal marsh area that provides habitat for a variety of shore and marsh birds.
The Preserve offers a view across Harpswell Sound to the unique Cribstone Bridge connecting Orr's Island with Bailey Island.
Public Access: Yes, though a high ledge outcropping must be navigated with caution to avoid damage to your vehicle.
Rules of Use
1. Motor vehicles are restricted to road and gravel parking areas. Speed limit: 5mph.
2. No overnight parking.
3. Carry in, carry out.
4. Take only pictures. Leave only footprints.
5. No open fires or camping.
6. No hunting or discharge of firearms.
7. Pets are permitted provided they are on a leash or under voice control so that they do not interfere with wildlife or other users' enjoyment of the Preserve.
8. Gatherings of 15 or more require written permission from the Trust.
9. No trap, float or boat storage.
Directions
From the Harpswell Neck Road (Route 123), about 12 miles south of the Bowdoin College campus and 1/3 of a mile south of the West Harpswell School, turn left onto Stover's Cove Road. Bear right onto the Stover's Point Road. Continue down over the hill where it curves to the right and stops at a "T" intersection. Take a left at the "T" onto the gravel road which will lead to the beach. Please note that a high ledge outcropping impedes access except by high clearance vehicles. Once on the beach, please be careful to park on gravel surfaces only.
Acquired: 2000
Property Owner: HHLT
Easement Holder: None