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Kingsbury, Maine

Remote wilderness plantation

Overview

Kingsbury is one of Maine's smallest organized communities, offering true wilderness living. The plantation is surrounded by working forestland and provides access to excellent hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling.

Key Facts

Population 28
Region Kennebec Valley
County Piscataquis
Founded 1836
Nearest City Guilford (30 minutes)

What Kingsbury Is Known For

Kingsbury Local Highlights

Judge Sanford Kingsbury
The plantation's namesake, who purchased this township in 1833 for $4,000 from the Bingham Purchase—one of the largest land deals in Maine history.
Kingsbury Pond
A scenic pond in the southwest corner of the plantation that provides fishing, wildlife viewing, and the focal point for the main village.
Foss Pond and Foss Mountain
The 1,532-foot Foss Mountain rises in the north, with Foss Pond below offering remote fishing and wilderness access.
Happy Corner
A historic neighborhood along Route 16 between the main village and Abbot, named during more prosperous times.

Things to Do

1
Fish Kingsbury Pond
The pond offers bass, pickerel, and perch in a quiet setting with minimal competition from other anglers.
2
Hike Foss Mountain
Though not heavily trafficked, the 1,532-foot peak offers views over the surrounding forestlands and remote ponds.
3
Hunt the Surrounding Forestlands
The mix of commercial timberland and regenerating forest creates excellent habitat for deer, moose, bear, and game birds.
4
Snowmobile Through Central Maine
Kingsbury connects to the trail network linking Guilford, Greenville, and the greater Moosehead region.
5
Explore Whetstone Pond
This pond in the northeast corner offers additional fishing opportunities and wildlife viewing.

Living in Kingsbury

Kingsbury offers affordable rural living at its most remote. There are no stores or services in the plantation—residents travel to Guilford or Dover-Foxcroft for basic needs. The population has fluctuated dramatically over the years, from a high of several hundred in the farming era to just 28 as of the 2020 census. Those who remain value privacy, low property taxes, and access to wild country more than convenience.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm days, cool nights, 65-75°F

winter

Very cold with deep snow, 5-20°F

spring

Extended mud season, 30-45°F

fall

Early snow, brief foliage, 35-50°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

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

How to Get There

Kingsbury is accessed via Maine Route 16, which runs through the main village along Kingsbury Pond. The route continues east through Happy Corner to Abbot. Some back roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially in spring.

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

Satellite preview

Kingsbury outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Kingsbury's town status?

Kingsbury was incorporated as a town in 1836 but surrendered that organization in 1885 due to population decline. It reorganized as Kingsbury Plantation in 1886, a simpler governmental structure better suited to small populations.

Why is the population so low?

Like many interior Maine communities, Kingsbury lost population as farming declined and young people moved to cities. The 2000 census counted just 9 residents. The population has grown slightly since, but Kingsbury remains one of Maine's smallest municipalities.

Is Kingsbury a good base for outdoor activities?

Yes. The plantation offers direct access to fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling, with proximity to the Moosehead region. However, visitors should be self-sufficient—there are no services locally.

Nearby Towns

Explore More

Kennebec Valley Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature