Vaughan Woods State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Vaughan Woods State Park |
|
|---|---|
|
IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
|
|
Wood footbridge on trail in Vaughn Woods
|
|
 Vaughan Woods State Park
Location in Maine
|
|
| Location | South Berwick, York, Maine, United States |
| Area | 165 acres (67 ha) |
| Elevation | 125 ft (38 m) |
| Established | 1949 |
| Operator | Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry |
| Website | Vaughan Woods State Park |
Vaughan Woods State Park is a cool place to visit in South Berwick, Maine. It's right next to the Salmon Falls River, which forms the border with New Hampshire. This state park is a public recreation area, meaning it's open for everyone to enjoy outdoor activities.
The park is special because it has a beautiful old house called the Hamilton House. It also has parts of a very old forest, known as an old-growth forest. Plus, there are about 3 miles (4.8 km) of trails perfect for hiking! The land for the park was given to the state by a woman named Elizabeth Vaughan in 1949.
Exploring Vaughan Woods State Park
Vaughan Woods State Park offers a great escape into nature. It's a perfect spot for families and friends to spend time outdoors. You can explore different parts of the park, from its historic buildings to its peaceful forests.
What You Can Do at the Park
There are many fun things to do when you visit Vaughan Woods State Park:
- Hiking: The park has about 3 miles (4.8 km) of trails. These trails are great for walking and exploring the woods. You can see different plants and animals as you hike.
- Visiting Hamilton House: The park is home to the historic Hamilton House. This old house has been carefully restored. It gives visitors a peek into what life was like long ago.
- Enjoying Nature: You can see amazing old-growth forests here. These are forests that have been growing for a very long time without much human interference. They are home to many types of trees and wildlife.
- River Views: The park is located along the Salmon Falls River. You can enjoy pretty views of the river and its surroundings.
History of Vaughan Woods State Park
The park has an interesting history, thanks to a generous gift.
- A Special Gift: The land that makes up Vaughan Woods State Park was given to the state of Maine in 1949. It was a gift from Elizabeth Vaughan. She wanted the land to be protected and enjoyed by the public.
- Becoming a State Park: After Elizabeth Vaughan's gift, the area became an official state park. This means it is managed to protect its natural beauty and provide recreation for people.
- Hamilton House: The Hamilton House is a very old building within the park. It was built a long time ago and has been kept in good condition. It's a key part of the park's history and charm.
