Ten Ponds and Lakes for Vacations and Recreation in Acton, Maine
August 20th, 2010 categories: Sanford Lakes Region
View from the foot of Mousam Lake in Acton
Ten lakes and ponds offer vacation and recreational activities in Acton, Maine–Balch Pond, Great East Lake, Hansen Pond, Horn Pond, Loon Pond, Moose Pond, Mousam Lake, Shapleigh Lake, Square Pond, Swan Pond and Wilson Lake. There’s more fresh water in Acton than in any other town in York County.
Several bodies of water, including Great East Lake, Loon Pond, Mousam Lake (pronounced Mouse-am) and Square Pond have lake associations with the mission to protect the lake environment, especially for water quality and wildlife.
Mousam is one of southern Maine’s most popular lakes. Brian Hardy, a seasonal resident says, “Nothing soothes the soul like a Mousam sunset.”
Two local marinas can meet your boat and recreational needs. Lakeside Sport and Marina is located on Mousam Lake, while Dick’s Marina is on Balch Pond.
To the east, the town boundary cuts through Square Pond and Mousam Lake, while the western boundary is formed by Salmon Falls River and the New Hampshire state line. Rolling hills and ubiquitous stone walls accentuate the landscape. This rural southwestern town serves as a bedroom community for Sanford and is only 30 miles southwest of Portland.
Silver was discovered in Acton in 1877. A decade of mining and prospecting followed, but the mines were later abandoned. More information about the mining can be found at the Acton-Shapleigh Historical Society.
The Acton Fair, held annually in August, takes place at the Acton Fairgrounds on Route 109. 2010 marks the 145th anniversary of the fair.
Big Daddy’s Clam Shack and Barbecue offers the finest seafood and ribs in the area. You’ll find Big Daddy’s on Route 109, across from the Acton Fair Grounds.
If it’s a quiet setting you are seeking for lakefront property, Acton may just be the place for you.
Acton Town Office, 35 H Road, Acton, 04001
www.actonmaine.org, 207.636.3131
Incorporated: March 6, 1830
Named for Acton, England, now part of Greater London
Square miles: 41.8
Population: 2,145
Fire/Police/Ambulance: 911
York County Sheriff: 207.284.8868
Acton Public Library: 207.636.2781
Acton Elementary School (grades K-8): 207.636.2100
Sanford High School: 207.324.2810
Boat launches: Great East Lake, Horn Pond, Mousam Lake
Playground: Acton Elementary School**not available during school hours
Tom - MrLakefront
