Town of China, Maine

There’s a sign along the road near China, in Maine, it’s off the beaten path, it’s a bit hidden, and a bit of a curiosity if you’re not from these parts. The sign lists a handful of far-flung and foreign destinations from Egypt to Mexico and the mileage to these faraway lands. Upon closer inspection, you begin to wonder how Denmark is only 95 miles from here, and Peru, 58 miles. And then it hits you: Maine has an extraordinary number of towns and villages named after other countries. And yes, China is just 7 miles down the road.

China in eastern Kennebec County is considered a resort and commuter community; residents and visitors enjoy frontage on China Lake, Threemile Pond, and a small portion of Branch Pond. The town comprises four villages, Weeks Mills to the southeast, Branch Mills to the south—both on the Western Branch of the Sheepscot River—which flows through Branch Pond. China Village is to the north, and South China is on the southern edge of China Lake.

Exploring China Maine

With all this water frontage—and a river to boot—it’s no surprise that China and its accompanying villages are popular year-round destinations for outdoor activities and are referred to as the China Lakes Region. It’s a short commute to the Winslow–Waterville area, and Augusta, the state capital, is just 10 miles to the southwest. Summer camps, cottages, and year-round homes surround the lakes; their proximity to the bustling capital makes China an attractive residential community.

A bit of lore about how China got its name before diving into more details about the area. The backstory is Massachusetts Legislature representative and resident Japheth C. Washburn proposed the name Bloomville, but residents objected, saying it was too similar to neighboring Bloomfield, so Japheth chose the name of his favorite hymn, “China.”

Let’s have a closer look at China, its beckoning lakes, ponds, and rivers, and see what makes this area such a popular spot in Maine.

Enjoying the China Lakes Region

A unique place to visit in China is a wooded and forested area with streams, waterfalls, and small ponds is Thurston Park. The park is an excellent place to view moose, porcupine, deer, and many species of birds, and there are remnants of early settler’s cellar holes, the Talbot Shingle Mill, and a town corner marker. The park has three multi-use and six hiking trails and is a beautiful place just to get away from it all.

There is also China School’s Forest which is home to the school’s ball fields and is a unique outdoor classroom and learning opportunity. The woods are an excellent opportunity for students to see and participate in forest management strategies and see a Maine forest ecosystem right in their schoolyard.

China Lake is two larger bodies of water connected by a narrow channel. There is a landing named Head of the Lake, where you can launch your boat or rent paddle boats for an excursion out on the water. Angling is a major draw to China Lake; you can fish for a variety of species here, trout, smallmouth bass, perch, sunfish, pickerel hornpout, and American eel, but what draws anglers to the lake is the largemouth bass fishing experience, in fact, there are numerous tournaments every summer.

While fishing is a popular year-round activity, as evidenced by the annual China Lake Ice Fishing Derby, which takes place in February, there are so many other opportunities boating, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming.

Eateries and Lodging in and around China

While there’s a lot of focus on fine fishing, don’t get too obsessed with landing that big one, or you’ll miss out on many of the other opportunities that make China a fun and exciting place to be. The Landing on the top of China Lake is a seasonal lake-side business that has thrived here for over 100 years, serving up hot and cold foods and ice cream. You can arrive by boat and tie up or drive here; either way, you are welcome and sit outside at picnic tables and enjoy the view. Gregg’s Place in South China is the place for breakfast and lunch—small, cozy, and unassuming, all while serving up hearty and wholesome meals.

Another popular spot (seasonal) is Majek Seafood and Grill; for eat-in or take-out, their menu specializes in seafood but has other many tasty offerings too—pizzas, calzones, hot dogs, and burgers.

At first glance, it would seem that there are limited places to stay in the China Lakes Region. The Cabins at China Lake and The Cabins at Pellerin Cove are two options, and there are many other options on online marketplaces.

A Few Final Thoughts About China, Maine

China, without a doubt, is an area known as an outdoor haven and seasonal recreational destination spot; however, if you are a resident or thinking of moving here, this rural town has a lot to offer. With easy access to major Maine cities, above-average educational opportunities for kids, a comfortable and neighborly feel, and the space to get out and enjoy the great outdoors: China is a well-rounded town well worth considering not only for your next vacation but as a great place to establish a comfortable life.

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