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The state is divided into 8 Tourism Regions, each with its own major
attractions, resources and geographical features. Each Region is color
coded, as shown below.
Maine is as large in area as all the other New England states put
together. It is about 320 miles long and 210 miles wide, with
a total area of 33,215 square miles. Maine boasts 6,000 lakes
and ponds, 32,000 miles of rivers and streams, 17 million acres
of forest land, 3,478 miles of coast line and 2,000 islands.
Starting with REGION 1 known as the SOUTH COAST, REGIONS 4, 5,
and 6 follow northeast along the coast to the Canadian border. These Regions
exhibit not only the beautiful sand beaches found mostly in the south and the
rugged rocky shores found more often as you travel north, but also beautiful
lakes and streams and pine forests found inland from the ocean. REGIONS 2,
3, 7, and 8 claim the largest of the lakes and mountains in the northeast.
Information Provided by The Maine Campground Owners Association
Originally part of Massachusetts, Maine became the
23rd state in 1820. At this time, Portland was
established as the capital, and would serve as it for
twelve years until Augusta was established as a more
centrally located capital in 1832.
Currently, the state boasts a population of 1.3
million people located among 17 million acres of
forest. Maine is a popular vacation spot in the
summer, with mild summers drawing tourists to explore
its vast coastline. Though winters can prove to be
brutal, the average snowfall between 60 to 90 inches
appeals to skiers and snowboard enthusiasts.
Tourists can acquire a tan at one of the state?s many
beaches, enjoy exquisite seafood, visit 542,629 acres
of state and national parks, or visit the state?s many
lighthouses. Portland Head light is one of the most
photographed lighthouses in the world. Acadia
National Park, located on Mt. Desert Island, offers
120 miles of hiking trails and 47,000 acres to
explore.
The state is also home to L.L. Bean, located in
Freeport, Stephen King and provides a summer home for
George H.W. Bush. Portland is the home to the Sea
Dogs and Pirates, a baseball and hockey team that are
minor league affiliates of the Boston Red Sox and
Anaheim Mighty Ducks respectively.
Fun Fact - Maine is the nation?s only state that has
one syllable.
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