State closing parks, beaches and warning campers.

Byline: Tom Bell

Aug. 26--All coastal Maine state parks and several inland parks will be closed for day use on Sunday in anticipation of Hurricane Irene's arrival in the state, officials announced today. Campers at state park campgrounds throughout Maine also are being warned by park staff of the approach of the hurricane, which is expected to bring high winds and gusts of up to 70 mph and an anticipated 2-foot storm surge.

Maine Department of Conservation officials warn Maine residents and visitors to stay away from coastal areas for their own safety and to take precautions for themselves and their families. The storm will bring an unusually high tide of 11 feet, accompanied by a storm surge …