Richardson
🌤 Weather at Richardson by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12–62 °F | 49–76 °F | 24–68 °F | 2–30 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Middle Dam, 6 mi away, elevation 1,460 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Rangeley Gem — Richardson Lake — one of the most pristine deep-water lakes in the eastern US, legendary for landlocked salmon
Richardson Public Reserved Land protects pristine shoreline on Richardson Lake — one of the crown jewels of Maine’s Rangeley Lakes chain. Upper and Lower Richardson Lakes are legendary for landlocked salmon and brook trout fishing. The lakes are among the most pristine deep-water bodies in the eastern United States, with water clarity exceeding 30 feet. The region’s fishing fame dates to the 1860s, when 8-pound brook trout drew “sports” from across the northeast. Richardson Lake is also a major stop on the Northern Forest Canoe Trail.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Richardsontown, Oxford County, ME |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Water Clarity | 30+ feet! |
| Fishing | Legendary salmon — 8lb brookies in 1860s! |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Northern Forest Canoe Trail?
The 740-mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail runs from Old Forge, NY to Fort Kent, ME — following waterways used by Native peoples for thousands of years. Richardson Lake is a key section of this epic paddling route.
What is a Rangeley Streamer?
The Rangeley Streamer is a type of fly that imitates baitfish — unlike traditional flies that imitate insects. Developed by Maine guides in the early 1900s, streamers like the Grey Ghost (Carrie Stevens, 1924) and the Black Ghost revolutionized fly-fishing. Carrie Stevens tied the Grey Ghost in 30 minutes and immediately caught a 6-pound brook trout — it became the most famous fly in American history.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Four Ponds (a short drive away) or Rangeley Lake State Park (a short drive away).
About Richardson
Richardson public reserved land encompasses the shores of Upper and Lower Richardson Lakes in the remote Rangeley Lakes region — some of the most pristine lakes in Maine. The Richardson Lakes were once served by steamboat and connected to Rangeley Lake by a narrow gauge railroad. The area is famous for producing trophy-sized brook trout and landlocked salmon.
Things to Do
Fishing for trophy brook trout and landlocked salmon, canoeing and kayaking the connected lake system, remote camping, moose watching, and experiencing the beauty of the Rangeley Lakes wilderness.
Insider Tips
Rangeley Lakes: Richardson borders the Rangeley Lakes — one of Maine’s most scenic lake chains in the western mountains. Pro tip: The Rangeley Lakes were America’s first fly-fishing destination — wealthy “sports” from Boston and New York came by train in the 1880s to catch native brook trout. Fly-fishing heritage: The Rangeley Streamer fly was invented here — it revolutionized fly-fishing technique.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Lake fishing and swimming. Fall: Western Maine foliage — spectacular. Winter: Ice fishing and snowmobiling. Spring: Ice-out fishing — trout active.
Wildlife & Nature
Richardson — on the Richardson Lakes — some of the most pristine lakes in Maine. The area’s boreal-mixed forest, lake, and streams support moose, loons, bald eagles, and landlocked salmon.
Nearby Attractions
Rangeley Lakes region — surrounding. Andover — 20 miles south.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Richardson
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed at most Maine state parks year-round, including trails, but must be leashed, under the handler's physical control and never left unattended.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not exceeding 4 feet, under the physical control of the handler
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed on state park beaches April 1 through September 30; leashed pets are welcome on beaches October 1 through March 31
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- No pets allowed at Sebago Lake State Park campground; park staff may assign pet owners to less congested camping areas
Are dogs allowed at Richardson?
Pets are allowed at most Maine state parks year-round, including trails, but must be leashed, under the handler's physical control and never left unattended. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via maine.gov. More: Maine state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Richardson
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
