Northwood is located in the Valley Region in Grand Forks County about 30 miles southwest of Grand Forks. The Red River of the North is 35 miles to the east.
Outdoor lovers can find things to do on the Goose River on the town's outskirts as well as around Devils Lake about 60 miles to the northwest. In addition, the town offers golfers the use of the facilities at Northwood Golf Club. The 9-hole course, built in 1960, is about 2,900 yards long and plays to a par of 35. They are open for play from May Day through Halloween.