Fort Lyons & Cow Island General Use Policy

1. 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.

2. Alcohol/Drug Policy Fort Lyons and Rippleffect serve youth & adults with high quality adventure programs on Cow Island. The overindulgence of alcohol or any other drug is at odds with the sprit and purpose of our use of the island. Please use your best judgment when choosing to use these substances if you are of legal age. Bear in mind that illegal drug use is not tolerated and any evidence of this type of activity will be reported to the Long Island constable.

3. Camping Overnight use of the MCHT campsites on the public side of the island requires registration with Rippleffect. Call Rippleffect at 207.791.7870 to hold your spot and to learn about our camping policies.
Campsite Location: Designated campsites on the West side. Situated to the north of Great Diamond Island in Casco Bay, Cow is open to the public for low-impact recreational use. Rippleffect owns this 26-acre island with responsibility to protect Cow's natural ecosystem and public access. From its island headquarters in Battery Bayard on the east side, Rippleffect leads experiential, environmental programs for area teens & adults. The best access to the island is on the northwest side.

Please plan to register at least 7 days in advance of your projected overnight camping. When you have chosen your dates and are ready to register for a campsite; send an email to kayli@rippleffect.net with the Subject "Cow Island Camping" and indicate the date and number of campers. Kayli will respond within 48 hours to your request.

4. Toilet facilities may be used. Comfortable, clean and odorless composting toilets exist in the middle of the island and off the SW side of Cow.

4. Fires are permitted on Cow Island by obstaining a fire permit with the Town of Long Island, 207-766-5820. Fires are only permited at designated public camsites in pre-established fire rings. PLEASE PREPARE TO BRING YOUR OWN WOOD FOR FUEL: Do not destroy trees or shrubbery, and please leave standing dead wood where it lies! All fires must be extinguished with water no later than 12:00 am. This rule is strictly enforced.

5. 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 may appear!

6. Program-related facilities are not for public use.

7. As part and parcel of the sustainable living pledge that Fort Lyons has signed on to, the conservation of water and the composting of food waste is a priority. Please help us to do this and follow the water use and composting guidelines.

8. The hazards are not limited to glass.
Poison ivy rings the island; please be careful when exploring. Guides can identify where it is and what it looks like. Click here for tips on how to identify poison ivy. Ticks do live on Cow Island. Careful observation is your best weapon. Long pants help.

9. Pets are allowed on leash. Please pick up all solid waste so that we can continue to welcome your four-legged friends!

10. Ledges and drop offs. This installation was originally built to defend against military attack. Dangerous drop offs and difficult pitches exist. Please be careful when walking at night.

Considerations/Restrictions: Strong currents and ocean swells in nearby Hussey Sound. Rippleffect staff in residence June-August; check in when you arrive (in person or VHF ch.69). Deepwater anchorage on W side. Use of SW side dock prohibited, except for emergencies. Fires by permit only; call the

During high program season, May 15 thru September 15, please confine your exploration to the west side. You'll find vestiges of gun emplacements, batteries and bunkers from both World Wars. There are manholes throughout the island. They are mostly covered, but please watch your step. Use established trails and stairways to help preserve delicate plants. Clean-ups and restoration projects are ongoing; if you wish to assist, check in with staff members or call Rippleffect. Click here for an in-depth reading about the Cow Island Conservation Corps Mission and Vision

Both Rippleffect and the Maine Coast Heritage Trust request that you follow all posted guidelines and leave Cow Island better than you found it. Your cooperation is appreciated.

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