Roosevelt Campobello International Park

Roosevelt Campobello International Park

Set within Maine, Roosevelt Campobello International Park is one of those NPS units where understanding the designation up front improves the visit. For many years, Franklin D. Roosevelt summered on Campobello Island.

As an adult, he shared with his family the same active pursuits he enjoyed on the island as child. Although he visited less frequently after contracting polio, Campobello remained important to FDR. Today Roosevelt Campobello International Park serves as a memorial to FDR and a symbol of cooperation between the U.S. and Canada.

Because Roosevelt Campobello International Park is an NPS unit, the visitor experience follows the service's general patterns — interpretation, ranger programs, accessible facilities where possible.

Key Highlights

• Presidents
• Museum Exhibits
• Ranger-led programs
• Visitor center exhibits
• Scenic photography opportunities

Getting There

Reaching Roosevelt Campobello International Park is straightforward once you know the route. The park is located on Campobello Island in New Brunswick, Canada. The customs station is located at the southern end of the island. Car is the best way to travel to the park; there is no public transportation available. From Boston take I-95 north to Bangor, Maine. Take Route 1A east to Ellsworth, then follow Route 1 east to Whiting Village. Take Route 189 to Lubec and cross the FDR Memorial Bridge to Campobello Island. The visitor center is located approximately two miles from the bridge.

By Car

Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or rental car. Road conditions vary with weather and construction, so check the park's alerts page the day before you travel. Pay attention to GPS directions in rural stretches—some apps route drivers onto unmaintained service roads rather than the signed park entrance.

Nearest Airports

Regional airports provide the most convenient access for long-distance travelers. For the most current airline service and driving distances, cross-reference flight options with the park's contact page. Budget extra drive time from any airport, especially if you arrive after dark or during winter weather.

Public Transit and Tours

Direct public transit is limited at most National Park Service sites, but guided day tours and shuttles sometimes operate from nearby cities during peak season. Rideshare options are often reliable in gateway towns but may drop off outside the park boundary rather than at specific trailheads or visitor centers.

For turn-by-turn directions and current road status, consult the park's official directions page: http://www.nps.gov/roca/planyourvisit/directions.htm.

Best Time to Visit

Weather shapes every visit. Roosevelt Campobello experiences all four seasons. Summer temperatures range from 50-80F (10-27C). Fall temperatures range from 25-70F (-4-21C). Typically the first is in frost mid-October and first snowfall begins in November and can continue through April with an average accumulation of 67 inches (170 cm). Winter temperatures range from 5-30F (-15 - -1C). Spring temperatures range from 20-60F (-6-16C).

Spring (March – May)

Spring offers moderate temperatures and longer days, with most services returning to full operation by late spring.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is peak season with full programming, but expect higher temperatures and larger crowds.

Fall (September – November)

Fall provides comfortable weather and thinner crowds, often the best overall combination for visitors.

Winter (December – February)

Winter is quiet and contemplative, with some facilities on reduced hours. Check conditions before heading out.

Activities and Adventures

Activities at Roosevelt Campobello International Park reflect the character of the site. The options below are drawn from the park's current published list—confirm availability and any required reservations before planning around a specific activity.

• Museum Exhibits — the visitor center is the best first stop for context, maps, and current program information.

Ranger-led programs are often the highest-value activity for first-time visitors, combining interpretation with access you might miss on your own. Check program schedules at the visitor center on arrival.

Wildlife and Natural Features

Although Roosevelt Campobello International Park is best known to many visitors for its recreation and scenery, it also protects the ecosystems that make those experiences possible.

Featured interpretive themes include Presidents.

Habitats and Ecosystems

The park's habitats support a cross-section of regional wildlife. Observing species in their native context is one of the most rewarding—and most overlooked—reasons to slow down during a visit.

Viewing Wildlife Responsibly

Give animals room, never feed them, and store food properly where bears or other scavengers are present. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens for close-up views rather than approaching.

Night Skies and Quiet

Many NPS units are increasingly valued as dark-sky and natural-quiet refuges. If your visit overlaps with a clear, moonless night, step away from artificial lighting and let your eyes adjust.

Lodging and Camping

Lodging strategy depends on how long you plan to stay at Roosevelt Campobello International Park and what you want to do when you are not at the park.

On-Site Stays

Overnight accommodations inside the park's boundary are limited or not offered here. Most visitors stay in nearby towns and commute in each day.

Gateway Towns and Nearby Lodging

Communities close to the park offer a mix of chain hotels, independent inns, vacation rentals, and—depending on location—bed-and-breakfasts. Several Maine towns serve as convenient bases, with restaurants, fuel, and grocery resupply. Book well ahead for summer weekends and major holidays.

Operating Hours and Seasons

Roosevelt Campobello Island: Open year-round from 1/2 hour before sunrise to a 1/2 hour after sunset.

Essential Information

Fees and Passes

No standard entrance fee is charged. Some special programs or partner-run facilities within the park may carry their own fees, so confirm before booking anything ticketed.

Contact

• Phone: 5067522922
• Email: [email protected]
• Official site: https://www.nps.gov/roca/index.htm

Safety

Carry water, sun protection, and layered clothing appropriate for the season. Cell coverage can be spotty in parts of the park—download offline maps before you leave your lodging. In an emergency, dial 911 or contact the nearest ranger station.

Services and Accessibility

Main visitor centers typically offer accessible restrooms, interpretive exhibits, bookstore sales, and ranger assistance. Accessibility varies by building and trail; contact the park ahead of time to discuss specific needs. Pets are often allowed on leash in designated areas only—check current rules before bringing animals.

Regulations to Know

Drones are prohibited in nearly all National Park Service units without a special permit. Metal detecting, collection of natural or cultural objects, and off-trail travel in sensitive areas are also commonly restricted. Read the signs at each trailhead and ask a ranger if you are unsure.

At Roosevelt Campobello International Park, a little preparation goes a long way. Keep a few minutes for the visitor center at the start.

Hero photo: Parks Canada Photo / Harold Bailey