CAMDEN — On May 5, the Maine Dept. of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry circulated a notice to the public advising those who planned to visit the state-owned Camden Hills State Park to take their own water and not depend on the park for potable water.

"Camden Hills State Park is under a do not drink the water order," the notice said.

On May 8, Jim Britt, who is spokesperson for the state agency, said the park was preparing for the 2026 season and conducting maintenance on the system:

"The park’s drinking water system is currently under a precautionary 'Do Not Drink' advisory while staff addresses a maintenance issue involving the water treatment system. Out of an abundance of caution, visitors are currently being asked to bring their own drinking water. A replacement part has been ordered, and staff are working to restore the system as quickly as possible in coordination with appropriate drinking water requirements and testing protocols. The park remains open and operational, and updates will be shared as more information becomes available."

As for rumors of elevated manganese levels in the water, as noted on Facebook, he said: "The water is tested. I have not heard the term 'elevated' related to manganese or anything else."

Reach Editorial Director Lynda Clancy at lyndaclancy@penbaypilot.com