Camping and Public Use

Cow Island provides public access to the north western shore (spanning from just north of the visible bunker, to the far north point of the island – see map) for day and overnight use. Overnight visitors are required to submit a camping registration request form.

Rippleffect runs school and youth programs 7 days a week from April through November. As a measure of safety and security, public access is STRICTLY HELD TO THE AREAS OUTLINED ON THIS MAP. Any unauthorized use of non-public areas, including the Rippleffect dock, is strictly prohibited.  

Rippleffect believes that time spent enjoying Cow Island is a wonderful way to explore the beauty of Casco Bay and we hold firm to our promise to provide this public access. As such, we ask that ALL visitors respect our policies and guidelines as the intent of each is to allow us to provide this access in a way that acknowledges the need for safe, responsible, and sustainable use of Cow Island for both the public in designated areas, and the participants of Rippleffect programs.  

Individuals or groups who do not adhere to these conditions of use will be asked to leave Cow Island.

CONDITIONS OF USE

  • Day Use: Dawn to dusk in the designated public use area only.

  • Overnight Camping use: Overnight visitors are required to submit a camping registration request form. Reservations must be confirmed by Rippleffect staff.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS / RESTRICTIONS

  • No use of the Cow Island private dock (on the southwestern shore) is permitted at any time – this includes dropping off campers/equipment.

  • Access to Cow Island is ONLY available by small crafts at the designated locations on the Cow Island map.

  • Moorings along the western shore of Cow Island are private and Rippleffect does NOT manage these moorings.

  • Camping is by reservation request only and is allowed only in the designated sites.

  • Cow Island’s public campsites are maintained by the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA). For more information, visit their website.

  • Fires are by permit only on Cow Island. Obtain a fire permit through the town of Long Island, 207-766-5820. Fires are only permitted at designated public campsites in pre-established fire rings. Please prepare to bring your own wood for fuel.

  • Please keep your visit contained to the public camping area, except to use the outhouse located at the end of the Hopper trail (yellow trail on the map leading up from the public area). Once beyond the public side, you are trespassing on private property. 

  • The campsite occupancy limits are: South site 12 people, Middle Site is for fire pit use only (no camping), North Site 6 people.

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR USE OF COW ISLAND

Cow Island is governed under a comprehensive conservation easement through the Maine Coast Heritage Trust. This legal document prohibits the destruction of plant life, harassment of animals and the outward alteration of the historic structures. Please help us to keep our promises and abide by these guidelines.

  • Program-related facilities are not for public use.

  • Alcohol/Drug/Smoking/Vaping Policy: 

    • Drugs, smoking, and vaping are prohibited on Cow Island.

    • Legal and responsible consumption of alcohol is permitted in designated camping areas only.    

    • Note: Rippleffect reserves the right to remove any individuals who are in violation of our Alcohol/Drug/Smoking/Vaping Policy at any time.

  • As a former military base, Cow Island has many identified and unidentified hazards, not the least of which are sharp objects (metal and glass) on the ground. Closed-toed shoes are highly recommended while on the interior of the island. Please be mindful that beaches may also be sites where these objects appear!

  • Fresh water is not available. Please bring as much fresh water as your group will require for the duration of your stay on Cow Island.

  • Poison ivy does exist on the island, so please be careful when exploring.

  • Ticks do live on Cow Island. Careful observation is your best tool and long pants help.

  • Pets are not permitted on Cow Island. 

  • Ledges and drop offs: Cow Island’s military installation was originally built to defend against military attack. Dangerous drop offs and difficult pitches exist. Please be careful when walking at night.

We hope your visit to Cow Island is safe and enjoyable. Please help us keep this island beautiful and clean for all to enjoy!