Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 8 : Spring 2011 | Page 81

in the fire. Fortunately, Jen had begun scanning the collection of photos the prior summer so some can be reproduced. Work on the new lodge began right away with the help of many local friends. The new lodge opened for business in July 2009. Keeping with the traditional look, the new lodge was built with local, hand-hewn logs. Since taking ownership of the camps, Jen has begun renovations on several of the cabins. For many years the camps were utilized by hunters in search of deer, bear, and moose as well as fishermen taking advantage of the many lakes within “striking” distance. As many in Aroostook County can attest, the deer population has declined drastically over the years and in turn so have the number of hunters. The camps are still busy, especially in the early summer and fall with fishermen looking for their big catch. Jen has seen an increase in the amount of families that are visiting the camps to take advantage of the hiking trails, animal watching, and multitude of lakes to canoe and kayak. Wanting to increase that trend, Jen is looking to expand and market to families for reunions, class reunions, weddings as well as businesses for company retreats. There are a total of nine guest cabins: Pushineer, Upper, Togue, Gardner, Galilee, Denny, the Little Cabins, and the Island. The cabins overlook Island Pond with the Main Lodge and Togue cabin located at the water’s edge. Along with comfortable accommodations and friendly atmosphere, guests are given access to camp canoes that are located at all the area ponds and lakes. Guests can also choose between bringing their own food and fending for themselves or purchasing a meal plan which includes three hearty homemade meals guaranteed to keep you satisfied! Red River Camps has had visitors from all over the world. Bath Iron Works, Bank of Ireland and the German National Frisbee Team can be counted among the many guests. The grandson of an earlier owner, Herschel Currie, pays a visit every year. The University of Farmington Research Climatological Studies Group stays once or twice a year to conduct research in the pristine local area. The Deboullie Lakes region and Red River Camps in the Northern Maine Woods are two of the best assets in Aroostook County, in my humble opinion. There is no better place to relax and enjoy the true meaning of “The Way Life Should Be”. Although I would love to keep this area all to myself, I can’t help but wanting to tell everyone what a wonderful place we have right in our back yar