Dexter, Maine

The Heart of the Maine Highlands.

Overview

Dexter encompasses a charming rural community centered around the pristine 1,062-acre Lake Wassookeag, whose name derives from the Penobscot Native American word for 'shining water'. Settled in 1801 and incorporated in 1816, the town grew because of its strategic location on the East Branch of the Sebasticook River, which provided excellent water power for mills. Today, Dexter maintains its small-town charm while serving as a central hub in the Maine Highlands, positioned almost exactly halfway between Bangor and Waterville.

Key Facts

Population 3,803

Region Maine Highlands

County Penobscot

Founded 1816

Nearest City Bangor (35 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Dexter Is Known For

Dexter Local Highlights

Lake Wassookeag

A stunning 1,062-acre lake offering swimming, boating, fishing, and year-round recreation with public beach access and boat launch.

Historic Mill Town

Rich industrial heritage from its days as a thriving mill town powered by the Sebasticook River.

Outdoor Recreation Hub

Central location for hiking, snowmobiling, golf, and exploring the Maine Highlands region.

Small-Town Community

Close-knit community known for neighbors helping neighbors and strong civic engagement.

Things to Do

Swim and Boat at Lake Wassookeag

Enjoy the public beach at Elenor Ronco Park with swimming area, boat launch, picnic pavilion, and playground.

Explore Dexter Municipal Forest

Hike scenic trails through lush greenery with stunning views of the surrounding Maine Highlands.

Golf at Dexter Municipal Course

Play this challenging 9-hole course complete with putting green, driving range, and snack bar.

Visit Historical Museums

Explore the Grist Mill and Abbott Museums featuring exhibits illuminating Dexter's rich mill town history.

Living in Dexter

Dexter offers affordable rural living with exceptional lake access and a notably lower cost of living than the national average. The tight-knit community values helping one another, with residents describing friendly, helpful neighbors and a place where everyone feels like family while maintaining privacy.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 70-85°F

winter

Cold and snowy, 15-30°F

spring

Cool, 45-60°F

fall

Beautiful, 50-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose White-tailed Deer Beavers Loons

How to Get There

Dexter is located in northwestern Penobscot County along Route 7 (Moosehead Trail), approximately 35 miles northwest of Bangor. State Routes 23, 94, and 7 all run through town, streamlining trips to nearby communities. The town is almost exactly halfway between Bangor and Waterville.

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

Satellite preview

Dexter outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish can I catch in Lake Wassookeag?

Lake Wassookeag is home to lake trout, salmon, bass, white and yellow perch, and pickerel, making it excellent for year-round fishing including ice fishing in winter.

How did Dexter get its name?

When incorporated as a town in 1816, it was named after Judge Samuel Dexter, who was then running for governor of Massachusetts (of which Maine was still a part at the time).

Is there public access to Lake Wassookeag?

Yes, Lake Wassookeag and Elenor Ronco Park feature a public beach, swimming area, boat launch, picnic pavilion, and playground for children.