25 Island, Lily Bay Township, Maine: A Private Moosehead Lake Island Retreat for $450,000

Imagine waking up surrounded by towering Maine pines, stepping outside to expansive views of mountains and water, and watching the sun set across one of Maine’s most iconic lakes—all from your own private island.

That is the lifestyle being offered at #25 Island, Lily Bay Township, ME 04441, a distinctive waterfront property currently listed for $450,000.

Located on Moosehead Lake in the Lily Bay area, this property is a compact but thoughtfully renovated island camp featuring one bedroom, one bathroom, and approximately 660 square feet of finished living space. The camp was completely renovated from the studs in 2022, combining traditional Maine camp character with a modern interior.

Unlike a conventional lake house accessible by a private road or driveway, this property offers something considerably more unusual: an island retreat surrounded by water.

The listing describes approximately 200 feet of owned waterfrontage, scenic mountain views, generator power, lake-drawn water, wood heat, and a turn-key interior. A dock will be needed for seasonal access and use, an important consideration for anyone evaluating the property.

At $450,000, the property is being marketed as a private getaway rather than simply another small vacation home. Its value is closely tied to the combination of location, privacy, waterfront ownership, island living, and the condition of the renovated camp.

Property Overview

The property at #25 Island is a single-family residence designed in a traditional camp style.

It was rebuilt or completely renovated from the studs in 2022, according to the listing description. The result is a relatively small home with a modern interior while maintaining the atmosphere associated with a classic Maine lake camp.

The primary property details include:

Asking price: $450,000
Location: #25 Island, Lily Bay Township, ME 04441
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1 full bathroom
Living area: 660 square feet
Year built: 2022
Architectural style: Camp
Lot size: 4,356 square feet
Waterfront: Approximately 200 feet owned
Water: Lake-drawn
Sewer: None
Power: Generator hookup / generator
Heating: Direct-vent heater and wood stove
Cooling: None
Parking: No driveway or conventional parking
Roof: Metal
Foundation: Pillar/post/pier
Zoning: LURC
Annual property tax: $562
HOA: None listed
MLS: 1678803

The property had been on Zillow for 14 days based on the information provided and had accumulated more than 21,000 views and 1,100 saves.

Your Own Private Island on Moosehead Lake

The defining feature of this property is obvious: it is an island retreat on Moosehead Lake.

For buyers searching for privacy and a genuine escape from conventional residential neighborhoods, an island property offers an entirely different experience.

There are no ordinary streets leading directly to the front door. There is no driveway crossing the property. Instead, access is inherently tied to the lake.

The listing specifically notes that a dock will be needed for seasonal access and use.

That makes the waterfront itself both the property’s greatest attraction and one of its most important practical considerations.

A prospective buyer should understand how they will reach the island throughout the year, what type of boat is appropriate, how docking will work, where a boat can be stored, and what maintenance will be necessary.

Approximately 200 Feet of Owned Waterfront

The property reportedly includes approximately 200 feet of waterfrontage, with 200 feet listed as owned waterfrontage.

That is an important distinction for a waterfront buyer.

The camp isn’t simply near Moosehead Lake—it has direct waterfront access.

The shoreline can provide opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, wildlife watching, and simply enjoying the water.

The exact usability of the shoreline should nevertheless be evaluated in person. Waterfront conditions can vary significantly depending on shoreline configuration, water levels, terrain, weather, and seasonal conditions.

A buyer should also verify all waterfront rights, boundaries, dock requirements, and applicable regulations.

Incredible Lake and Mountain Views

The listing emphasizes lake and mountain views, and the property facts identify the views as mountain and scenic.

For a small camp, views can dramatically influence the experience.

Large windows in the living area reportedly bring the surrounding landscape indoors, allowing the lake and mountains to become part of the home’s interior atmosphere.

The combination of water, forest, mountains, and open sky is one of the major lifestyle attractions of owning a property in this setting.

The listing also specifically highlights Moosehead Lake sunsets.

For many buyers, that kind of visual experience is not merely a feature of the property—it is one of the reasons to own it.

Renovated From the Studs in 2022

One of the property’s biggest advantages is that it isn’t being marketed as an untouched fixer-upper.

According to the listing, the camp was completely renovated from the studs in 2022.

That suggests the current interior was substantially updated rather than simply cosmetically refreshed.

For buyers considering a seasonal retreat, a recent renovation can reduce some of the uncertainty associated with purchasing an older camp.

However, “renovated from the studs” should still be verified through documentation where possible. Buyers may want to ask about permits, architectural plans, contractor records, electrical work, plumbing, insulation, structural components, and the specific systems replaced during the renovation.

Open-Concept Living Area

The interior features an open-concept living space, giving the 660-square-foot camp a more connected and spacious feel.

In a small property, an open layout can be especially useful because it allows the kitchen, dining, and living areas to function together.

Rather than dividing the interior into numerous small rooms, the design appears focused on maximizing the usable common space.

Warm wood finishes add to the traditional Maine camp atmosphere while keeping the renovated interior feeling modern.

Stone Accent Wall and Wood Stove

One of the standout interior details is a stone accent wall with a wood stove.

A wood stove is particularly appropriate for a Maine camp, where the ability to generate heat independently can be valuable.

The listing identifies both a direct-vent heater and wood stove as heating sources.

Beyond functionality, the stone and wood combination contributes significantly to the camp’s character.

A fire on a cool evening, combined with lake views through the windows, can create the type of atmosphere that many buyers associate with a classic northern lake retreat.

The stove and chimney system should nevertheless be professionally inspected, especially if the property is going to be used seasonally.

Modern Kitchen With Island

The kitchen includes a center island and is integrated into the open-concept living space.

The listing states that a gas range and refrigerator are included.

For a 660-square-foot camp, the kitchen appears designed to balance functionality with the limited footprint.

Having an island can provide additional food-preparation space as well as an informal place to sit.

The combination of modern kitchen features and traditional wood finishes helps preserve the camp aesthetic without making the property feel outdated.

A Beautifully Finished Bathroom

The bathroom is another area where the 2022 renovation is particularly visible.

The listing describes a tiled walk-in shower with a glass enclosure and pebble-stone floor.

This is a notably modern feature for a traditional lake camp.

The natural textures of the tile and pebble stone also complement the surrounding landscape and wood-heavy interior.

The property facts identify the bathroom as one full bathroom.

One Bedroom Located on the Second Level

The property contains one bedroom, and the listing places Bedroom 1 on the second level.

This configuration can provide separation between the sleeping area and the primary living space.

For a couple, individual buyer, or small household looking for a private retreat, one bedroom may be entirely sufficient.

The relatively compact size also means the property can be easier to maintain than a large vacation home.

At the same time, buyers should understand that the 660-square-foot layout is optimized for a small number of occupants rather than a large group.

Wood Flooring and Natural Materials

The interior uses wood flooring, warm wood finishes, and natural stone details.

These materials fit naturally with the property’s setting.

Rather than attempting to make the camp resemble a suburban house, the design appears to embrace its identity as a Maine waterfront retreat.

That is particularly effective in a small property because natural materials can make the space feel connected to its surroundings.

Generator Power

The property is equipped with generator power, and the listing identifies a generator hookup.

This is an important feature because island properties may not have the same utility infrastructure as conventional mainland homes.

A generator can provide an independent source of electricity, but prospective buyers should learn exactly how the system operates.

Questions worth asking include:

What size generator is installed?
Is it permanently installed?
What systems can it power?
How is fuel stored?
How frequently does it require maintenance?
Is there backup power for essential systems?
What happens during extended outages?
Are there any limitations on generator operation?

The answers can have a major impact on the practical experience of owning an island property.

Lake-Drawn Water

The camp uses lake-drawn water rather than a conventional municipal water system.

This is another characteristic that distinguishes the property from a typical house.

Buyers should investigate the entire water system, including the intake, filtration, treatment, pumps, storage, winterization procedures, and maintenance requirements.

Water systems at seasonal properties can require specialized attention, particularly when temperatures drop below freezing.

Compost Toilet and No Sewer System

The listing identifies a compost toilet, while the utility information states that there is no sewer.

For an island retreat, this type of sanitation system can be a practical alternative to conventional municipal sewer infrastructure.

However, buyers should become familiar with the system’s operating requirements, maintenance schedule, capacity, and applicable local regulations.

A professional inspection and review of the property’s permitting and sanitation arrangements are strongly recommended.

No Conventional Parking or Driveway

The property facts list:

No driveway
No conventional parking

That makes sense for an island property.

Instead of pulling a vehicle into a garage or driveway, owners will need to consider their mainland parking and boat-access arrangements.

This could involve maintaining a parking location on the mainland, arranging boat storage, or using an appropriate marina or docking location, depending on the property’s access arrangements.

The listing’s statement that a dock will be needed should be treated as an important ownership consideration rather than a minor detail.

The Importance of a Dock

For an island property, a dock can be almost as important as a driveway is for a conventional home.

The listing explicitly states that a dock will be needed for seasonal access and use.

Before buying, prospective owners should determine:

Whether a dock currently exists
Whether the property previously had a dock
What permits are required
Where a dock can legally be installed
What type of dock is appropriate
Whether seasonal removal is required
How much installation may cost
Whether there are restrictions related to shoreline protection

These details could have a meaningful impact on the total cost of ownership.

Metal Roof and Post-and-Pier Foundation

The building features a metal roof and a pillar/post/pier foundation.

Metal roofing can be well suited to a seasonal property because of its durability, but its condition should still be inspected.

The foundation system is also worth careful examination.

Because the building sits in a waterfront environment, buyers should have a qualified professional inspect the foundation, posts, supports, connections, and areas potentially exposed to moisture.

The 4,356-Square-Foot Lot

The property sits on approximately 4,356 square feet, equivalent to about 0.1 acre.

That may sound small compared with mainland vacation properties, but an island property is evaluated differently.

The surrounding lake is effectively part of the lifestyle experience.

The listing describes the lot as rural, level, open, and rolling slope, giving buyers a mixture of usable areas and natural terrain.

The property also includes a shed.

No Air Conditioning

The camp does not have conventional air conditioning.

For many seasonal Maine properties, this may not be a significant concern, especially when the building is used primarily during warmer months and natural ventilation is available.

Nevertheless, buyers who expect modern climate control should recognize that cooling is not currently part of the home’s systems.

The property’s insulation and window configuration should also be evaluated to understand how comfortable the interior remains during different weather conditions.

Zoning and LURC

The listing identifies the property as being within LURC zoning.

This is an important item for due diligence.

Because the property is an island and located on a major lake, land-use and environmental regulations can be particularly relevant.

Anyone considering changes to the structure, dock, shoreline, utilities, landscaping, or additional structures should verify applicable rules before beginning work.

The existence of a renovated building does not automatically mean that every future modification will be permitted.

Annual Property Taxes

The supplied listing information reports annual property taxes of approximately $562.

That is a relatively modest recurring property-tax figure compared with many conventional homes at higher price points, although buyers should verify the current tax status directly with the appropriate local authority.

Property taxes can change over time, and buyers should not rely solely on the listing’s figure when preparing a long-term ownership budget.

The $450,000 Asking Price

The property is currently listed at $450,000.

Zillow’s supplied information shows a Zestimate of approximately $425,500, with an indicated figure of roughly $682 per square foot based on the listing’s 660-square-foot size.

Those automated valuation figures should not be treated as an appraisal or guarantee of market value.

For an unusual property like a private island camp, comparable sales can be difficult to identify because there may be relatively few directly comparable properties.

The price reflects much more than interior square footage.

It incorporates the island setting, owned waterfrontage, views, privacy, renovated condition, and the unique nature of the property.

Why Square Footage Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story

At only 660 square feet, this property would look expensive if evaluated strictly on a traditional price-per-square-foot basis.

But island and waterfront properties often cannot be evaluated solely by interior space.

A buyer is purchasing an experience as much as a building.

The value proposition includes:

Private island ownership
Direct Moosehead Lake waterfront
Approximately 200 feet of owned waterfront
Mountain and scenic views
A 2022 renovation
A finished interior
Generator power
Lake-drawn water
A wood stove
A peaceful seasonal setting
A detached shed
No HOA listed

For someone specifically seeking a private island retreat, these characteristics may be considerably more important than simply having additional bedrooms or square footage.

A Turn-Key Getaway

The listing describes the property as a turn-key getaway.

That description is understandable given the recent renovation and the finished interior.

The camp doesn’t appear to require the type of complete interior renovation that an untouched historic structure might require.

Still, turn-key should not be interpreted as maintenance-free.

Island properties require ongoing attention to docks, boats, generators, water systems, sanitation systems, winterization, shoreline conditions, exterior materials, and weather exposure.

The buyer should conduct a complete inspection rather than relying solely on the listing description.

Potential as a Vacation Retreat

The most obvious use for the property is as a personal vacation retreat.

A one-bedroom camp can work particularly well for couples or individuals looking for a quiet escape.

The open-concept design provides common living space, while the second-floor bedroom offers a dedicated sleeping area.

The surrounding lake and mountain landscape essentially becomes an extension of the living space.

Morning coffee by the water, boating during the day, and sunset views in the evening could define the experience of ownership.

Seasonal Access Requires Planning

Seasonal access is one of the most important issues to understand before purchasing.

The listing specifically says that a dock will be needed for seasonal access and use.

Prospective buyers should ask the listing agent about current access arrangements and how the property has historically been reached.

Winter access may also be different from summer access.

Weather, ice conditions, water levels, and transportation methods can all affect how convenient the property is at different times of year.

For buyers accustomed to conventional homes, this is a major difference.

What Prospective Buyers Should Verify

Before purchasing #25 Island, buyers should consider a thorough due-diligence process.

Important questions include:

Waterfront Rights

Confirm the exact boundaries of the approximately 200 feet of owned waterfront.

Dock Requirements

Determine what permits, costs, and restrictions apply to installing and maintaining a dock.

Water System

Inspect the lake-drawn water system and understand its maintenance and winterization requirements.

Compost Toilet

Confirm the system’s condition, legality, capacity, and maintenance requirements.

Generator

Verify the generator’s age, capacity, fuel source, service history, and operating condition.

Structural Condition

Have the renovated structure and post-and-pier foundation professionally inspected.

Renovation Records

Ask for documentation regarding the 2022 renovation, including permits and major system upgrades.

Zoning

Confirm what uses and future improvements are permitted under the applicable LURC regulations.

Insurance

Obtain an insurance quote before closing. Island properties can have different insurance considerations than conventional homes.

Boat and Mainland Access

Determine where owners can park, launch, dock, and store boats and equipment.

A Rare Type of Maine Real Estate

There are plenty of lake houses.

There are far fewer private-island lake houses.

That distinction makes #25 Island particularly unusual.

The property combines the atmosphere of a classic Maine camp with a modern 2022 renovation, while placing the owner directly on Moosehead Lake.

The home itself is small, but the setting is expansive.

The lake provides the open space. The mountains provide the backdrop. The trees provide privacy. And the island location creates separation from the ordinary pace of mainland life.

Final Thoughts

#25 Island in Lily Bay Township, Maine, is a one-of-a-kind real-estate opportunity centered around privacy, waterfront ownership, and the classic Maine camp experience.

Listed at $450,000, the property includes a renovated 660-square-foot, one-bedroom, one-bath camp that was completely renovated from the studs in 2022.

Inside, buyers will find an open-concept living area, warm wood finishes, a stone accent wall with wood stove, kitchen island, gas range, refrigerator, wood flooring, and a beautifully finished bathroom with a tiled walk-in shower and pebble-stone floor.

Outside, the property offers approximately 200 feet of owned Moosehead Lake waterfront, mountain and scenic views, towering pines, and the opportunity to enjoy spectacular lake sunsets.

The property also has several systems designed around its island setting, including generator power, lake-drawn water, a compost toilet, and wood/direct-vent heating.

At the same time, island ownership comes with responsibilities that should not be overlooked. A dock will be needed for seasonal access and use, there is no conventional driveway or parking, the property has no sewer system, and there is no air conditioning.

The most important step for any interested buyer is therefore thorough due diligence.

Verify the waterfront boundaries, dock requirements, access arrangements, water and sanitation systems, generator, renovation records, zoning, insurance, and structural condition before committing to the purchase.

For someone searching for an ordinary house, 660 square feet may seem small.

For someone searching for a private island retreat on Moosehead Lake, the square footage is only part of the story.

This property is ultimately about the setting: a renovated Maine camp, surrounded by water and mountains, offering a level of privacy and connection to nature that is extremely difficult to replicate with a conventional home.