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Oxbow, Maine

Remote settlement on the Aroostook River

Overview

Oxbow is one of Maine's most remote communities, located along the Aroostook River just south of the Canadian border. The handful of residents enjoy true backcountry living, with excellent fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling in the surrounding wilderness.

Key Facts

Population 65
Region Aroostook
County Aroostook
Founded 1870
Nearest City Fort Kent (35 minutes)

What Oxbow Is Known For

Oxbow Local Highlights

Aroostook River Oxbows
The plantation was named for the dramatic winding bends of the Aroostook River—oxbow curves that shape the landscape and provide exceptional paddling and fishing.
Sporting Camp Tradition
Oxbow Lodge, Homestead Lodge, and Umcolcus Sporting Camps continue the North Woods tradition of providing wilderness accommodations and guided hunting.
Bear Hunting Destination
The surrounding forests have made Oxbow a renowned destination for guided bear baiting and hunting, drawing sportsmen from across the country.
Frontier Character
Located just south of the Canadian border in the heart of northern Aroostook's wilderness, Oxbow maintains the frontier atmosphere that has defined this region since the first settlers arrived.

Things to Do

1
Paddle the Aroostook River
The river's famous oxbow curves provide exceptional canoeing and kayaking through pristine wilderness, with a public boat launch at Rudolph Michalka providing access.
2
Fish for Brook Trout and Salmon
The cold, clean waters of the Aroostook and its tributaries support healthy populations of native brook trout and landlocked salmon.
3
Hunt with Professional Guides
The sporting camps offer guided hunts for bear, moose, deer, and upland birds, with expert local knowledge and wilderness accommodations.
4
Snowmobile to Canada and Beyond
Winter connects Oxbow to the extensive trail network spanning northern Maine and crossing into New Brunswick.
5
Experience True Wilderness
Few places in the eastern United States offer the isolation and wild character of Oxbow—dark skies, abundant wildlife, and profound silence.

Living in Oxbow

Oxbow represents frontier living in modern Maine. The community voted to deorganize in 2015-2016, giving up local government to rely on county and state services instead. There are no stores, no gas stations, and minimal services. The handful of year-round residents have chosen this life deliberately—trading convenience for wilderness, community for solitude. The sporting camps provide the economic base, drawing visitors who pay to experience the wilderness that locals live every day.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm days, cool nights, 62-76°F

winter

Extremely cold with heavy snow, -10 to 18°F

spring

Cool and wet, 28-48°F

fall

Brief and chilly, 35-55°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Black bear Moose White-tailed deer Bald eagles Brook trout Landlocked salmon Loons

How to Get There

Oxbow is located on Route 11 in northern Aroostook County, north of Portage Lake. The drive from Fort Kent takes about 35 minutes; from Presque Isle about an hour.

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

Satellite preview

Oxbow outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Oxbow deorganize?

In 2015, residents voted unanimously to give up plantation status and become part of Maine's unorganized territory. With only about 50 residents, maintaining local government was burdensome. The county and state now provide basic services.

How did Oxbow get its name?

The Aroostook River makes dramatic winding bends through this area—curves shaped like the oxbow harness used to keep oxen attached to their loads. Early settlers named the community for these distinctive river features.

Can I stay overnight in Oxbow?

Yes. The sporting camps (Oxbow Lodge, Homestead Lodge, Umcolcus Sporting Camps) offer accommodations ranging from rustic cabins to more comfortable lodges. They cater primarily to hunters and anglers but welcome other visitors seeking wilderness experience.

Nearby Towns

Explore More

Aroostook Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature