Maine Wildlife Park – Gray, Maine

If you are driving along I-95 through the beautiful state of Maine, you’ve likely noticed the endless stretch of pine trees and the occasional sign warning you to watch out for moose. But as any seasoned traveler knows, actually spotting Maine’s iconic wildlife in the thick forest can be a challenge. If you want to guarantee an up-close encounter with the state’s most famous residents without wandering miles into the North Woods, there is one stop you absolutely cannot miss: the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray.

Located just five minutes off the highway, this park is more than just a tourist stop; it is a sanctuary, an educational goldmine, and a peaceful retreat from the hum of the interstate.

A Sanctuary with a Story

The first thing you should know about the Maine Wildlife Park is that it isn’t a traditional zoo. Operated by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the park serves as a permanent home for animals that can no longer survive in the wild. Whether they were orphaned as cubs, injured in accidents, or became too accustomed to humans to be safely released, these animals have a safe, spacious haven here.

When you walk through the gates, you aren’t just looking at exhibits; you are meeting “ambassadors” for Maine’s natural world. There is a sense of respect and care that permeates the park, making it a feel-good destination for animal lovers of all ages.

The Stars of the Show: Moose and More

For many visitors, the Moose are the main event. Seeing a moose in the wild is often a matter of luck and timing, but at the Maine Wildlife Park, you can observe these towering, majestic creatures from just a few feet away. Watching a bull moose graze or seeing a cow interact with her surroundings is a humbling experience that highlights the true scale of Maine’s largest mammal.

Beyond the moose, Maine Wildlife Park features an incredible array of species:

• The Big Cats: Maine is home to elusive predators like the Canada Lynx and the Mountain Lion (Cougar). In the wild, these cats are almost never seen by human eyes. Here, you can admire their powerful builds and tufted ears in large, naturalistic enclosures.
• Black Bears: Watch the bears climb, forage, and nap. They are a fan favorite, especially during the warmer months when they are most active.
• Birds of Prey: The park boasts an impressive “Raptor Way,” featuring Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, Peregrine Falcons, and various hawks. Seeing the wingspan of a Bald Eagle up close is something you won’t soon forget.
• The Small and Furry: Don’t overlook the foxes, fishers, porcupines, and raccoons. Each has a personality of its own, and the park provides plenty of information about their roles in the ecosystem.

Explore More Than Just Animals

While the animals are the highlight, Maine Wildlife Park is designed to be a full sensory experience. The grounds are beautifully wooded, offering plenty of shade for a comfortable walk even on a hot summer day.

• The Fish Hatchery: Right next door is the Dry Mills Fish Hatchery. You can walk over and see thousands of brook trout in various stages of growth. It’s a fascinating look at how Maine manages its legendary fishing waters.
• Nature Trails: If you need to burn off some “car energy,” take a stroll on the park’s nature trails. They are well-marked and offer a chance to see native Maine flora and perhaps a few wild chipmunks or songbirds.
• Interactive Learning: The park is packed with educational displays. From “touch tables” with furs and antlers to interactive kiosks, children (and curious adults) will walk away with a much deeper understanding of biology and conservation.

The Details

Address:
Maine Wildlife Park
56 Game Farm Road
Gray, Maine 04039
Telephone: 207-822-6460
Website: https://www.maine.gov/ifw/wildlife-park

Hours of Operation:
April 15 – October 14
Monday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Tuesday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Wednesday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Thursday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Friday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Sunday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
October 15 – November 11
Monday: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Tuesday: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Wednesday: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Thursday: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Friday: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Saturday: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Sunday: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm

Admission:
Adults/Youths (11-64): $15.00
Children (2-10): $11.00
Children under 2: Free
Seniors (65+): $12.00
Veteran / Military Personnel: $10.00

Directions:
From the Maine Turnpike (I-95): Exit 63 (formerly 11), turn left on to Route 115 and drive 1/5th mile across overpass and take a right on to Route 26A. Travel 3.4 miles and the Maine Wildlife Park will be on your right.

Why It’s the Perfect I-95 Stop

Driving I-95 can be a bit monotonous. Gray, Maine, sits at a strategic point-about 20 minutes north of Portland and 20 minutes south of the Lewiston/Auburn area. It’s the ideal halfway point for those heading toward Acadia National Park or the Maine Highlands.

Instead of stopping at a crowded fast-food joint, you can pull into Maine Wildlife Park, enjoy a picnic at one of their many tables, and spend two hours immersed in nature. It resets your mood and gives the kids something to talk about for the next 100 miles.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

1. Bring Quarters for the Feeders: Throughout Maine Wildlife Park, there are coin-operated dispensers with specially formulated feed for the deer and the fish. It is a highlight for children to have a deer eat right out of their hand, so make sure you have a pocketful of change before you enter!
2. Visit During “Activity Hours”: Like most animals, Maine’s wildlife is most active during the cooler parts of the day. If your schedule allows, try to arrive right when the park opens or about two hours before closing; you’ll see much more movement and vocalization than during the midday nap hours.
3. Check the Snack Bar Schedule: While there is a snack bar on-site, its hours can vary seasonally. To be safe, pack a cooler with lunch or snacks; the park has several beautiful, shaded picnic groves that offer a much more scenic dining experience than any roadside rest stop.

Final Thoughts

The Maine Wildlife Park is a place of connection. It connects travelers to the land they are driving through and connects people to the animals that make Maine so special. It’s affordable, accessible, and deeply impactful.

So, the next time you see the sign for Exit 63 in Gray, take the turn. Follow the signs for the Wildlife Park. Whether you stay for an hour or an afternoon, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the “Pine Tree State” and memories of the wild faces that call it home. Happy travels!

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