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Drew Plantation, Maine

Mattawamkeag River wilderness

Overview

Drew Plantation is one of Maine's most remote communities, named for Captain Drew, an early settler and community leader. The Mattawamkeag River winds through the township, and the eastern portion is dominated by the Mattawamkeag River System Wildlife Management Area. After nearly 200 years of organized government, Drew completed deorganization in 2023.

Key Facts

Population 48
Region Maine Highlands
County Penobscot
Founded 1825
Nearest City Lincoln (50 minutes)

What Drew Plantation Is Known For

Drew Plantation Local Highlights

Mattawamkeag River
This significant river runs through Drew Plantation from Reed Plantation to Kingman, winding through substantial bogs and wetlands that define the landscape and provide critical wildlife habitat.
Wildlife Management Area
The eastern portion of Drew is dominated by the Mattawamkeag River System Wildlife Management Area, protecting wetlands, bogs, and forests that support diverse wildlife populations.
Captain Drew's Legacy
The plantation was named for Captain Drew, an early settler and community leader who helped establish this remote community in the 1820s when the region was true frontier.
Logging Heritage
Drew has deep roots in Maine's logging and trapping traditions, with the forestry industry sustaining the community from its earliest days through the present.

Things to Do

1
Fish the Mattawamkeag River
The river supports populations of brook trout and other species, offering fishing opportunities in a remote setting far from crowds.
2
Hunt the Wildlife Management Area
The WMA provides excellent habitat for moose, deer, bear, and waterfowl, with public access for hunting during appropriate seasons.
3
Explore by ATV
Summer and fall bring access via logging roads and trails, though permission from landowners may be required for some areas.
4
Snowmobile the North Woods
Winter connects Drew to the regional trail network, providing access to remote wilderness and connections to other communities.
5
Experience True Remoteness
For those seeking genuine isolation, Drew delivers—miles of forest, abundant wildlife, and the quiet that comes from being far from anywhere.

Living in Drew Plantation

Drew Plantation completed deorganization in 2023, becoming part of Maine's unorganized territory after nearly 200 years of local government. The community's population has always been small—137 in 1880, when it supported two schoolhouses, down to about 48 today. Drew was briefly incorporated as a town in 1921 but reverted to plantation status in 1934 during the Great Depression. Residents chose deorganization as a practical response to the challenges of maintaining government with a tiny tax base.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm days, cool nights, 62-76°F

winter

Very cold with heavy snow, -10 to 20°F

spring

Cool and muddy, 28-48°F

fall

Crisp and brief, 35-55°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose White-tailed deer Black bear Beaver Brook trout Waterfowl Ruffed grouse

How to Get There

Drew is located in northern Penobscot County, accessible via Route 171. The township is about 30 miles north of Lincoln. Access to some areas requires navigating logging roads with local knowledge.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Drew Plantation outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Drew deorganize?

With a population under 50 and a limited tax base, maintaining local government became impractical. Drew completed the deorganization process in 2023, becoming part of Maine's unorganized territory with services provided by the county and state.

Who was Captain Drew?

Captain Drew was an early settler and community leader who helped establish this remote community in the 1820s. The plantation was named in his honor, though details of his life have been largely lost to history.

What is the Mattawamkeag River System Wildlife Management Area?

This protected area in the eastern portion of Drew preserves wetlands, bogs, and forests along the Mattawamkeag River, providing critical habitat for moose, waterfowl, and other wildlife, with public access for hunting and wildlife viewing.

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Maine Highlands Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature