Cooper, Maine

Lakes and blueberry barrens above Cobscook Bay

Overview

Cooper is defined by clearwater lakes and rolling blueberry fields. Camps line Cathance and Orange lakes, while gravel roads connect to nearby Grand Lake Stream country. It is a remote-feeling spot within reach of Cobscook Bay and the working waterfronts of Machias and Lubec.

Key Facts

Population 150

Region Downeast & Acadia

County Washington

Founded 1822

Nearest City Machias (25 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What Cooper Is Known For

Cooper Local Highlights

Lake camps

Seasonal and year-round camps on Cathance and Orange lakes.

Blueberries

Barrens that blaze red in late summer and fall.

Quiet roads

Sparse traffic and abundant wildlife in surrounding forest.

Gateway position

An inland base for exploring Grand Lake Stream lodges and Cobscook Bay headlands.

Things to Do

Paddle Cathance Lake

Launch a canoe for bass fishing and loon spotting.

Fall foliage drive

Tour the barrens when they turn crimson in September.

Explore Grand Lake Stream region

Day-trip to nearby fishing lodges and trails.

Visit Cobscook Bay

Head east for bold-coast hikes and lighthouse sightseeing; pair it with the /guides/foliage-guide in late season.

Cast for bass

Fish smallmouth on Cathance and Orange lakes; the /guides/fishing-guide covers licenses and seasons.

Living in Cooper

Cooper offers true rural seclusion; residents shop in Machias or Calais. Lakeside living and blueberry work drive the seasonal rhythm, and most homes rely on private wells, wood heat, and plowed camp roads in winter.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild, 65-78 F

winter

Cold, 5-25 F with deep snow

spring

Cool and damp, 38-55 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F with vivid barrens

Local Wildlife & Nature

Bald eagles and loons on the lakes Black bears and deer along berry barrens Migrating shorebirds on nearby Cobscook Bay day trips

How to Get There

Off US-1 via Route 191; local camp roads circle Cathance and Orange lakes.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Cooper outline

Outdoor Recreation

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Fishing

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Snowmobiling

Winter (December - April)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there services in town?

Cooper has no major stores; most residents drive to [Machias](/towns/machias) or Calais for groceries, gas, and hardware.

When do the blueberry barrens turn red?

Late August through early October brings the strongest color, making Cooper a scenic stop during peak Downeast foliage season.