Elliot Wildlife Management Area Adventures

Elliot Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is located in Penobscot County, Maine, mainly within the towns of Milford and Old Town. The WMA covers approximately 3,420 acres of mixed forest, wetlands, and riparian habitats along the Penobscot River. It has been managed by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to conserve critical wildlife habitat and provide outdoor recreational opportunities such as hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking. The vegetation is characterized by a combination of northern hardwoods, conifers, and extensive wetlands that support beaver activity, waterfowl breeding, and populations of white-tailed deer and black bear. Over the years, the area has played an important role in regional conservation efforts by maintaining habitat connectivity along the Penobscot River corridor. Outdoor enthusiasts visit Elliot WMA for its quiet, natural landscapes, and its well-managed access points allow activities such as trout fishing in nearby streams and upland game hunting. The presence of diverse water bodies, including ponds and marshes, attracts migratory birds and supports a variety of amphibians and reptiles. Though it lacks developed facilities like campgrounds, the WMA’s remote character appeals to visitors looking for a low-impact wilderness experience near the heart of Maine’s North Woods. The area's proximity to Old Town and Bangor provides visitors with lodging and amenities outside the WMA. Wildlife watchers especially appreciate the chance to spot moose, bald eagles, and numerous songbirds during spring and fall migration seasons.