Baldface Shelter
Open year-round, first-come, first-served. No reservations or fees required. Winter access requires appropriate gear and backcountry skills. Bear canisters are required for overnight stays.
Special Weather Statement issued May 24 at 2:21AM EDT by NWS Gray ME
* The warm air temperatures later this Holiday weekend in the mid 60s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only in the mid 50s across Sebago Lake and Lake Winnipesaukee, and in the mid 50s in the regions smaller lakes and rivers. * The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. When the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could loose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish simple tasks. Anyone on small boats, canoes, or kayaks should plan accordingly if recreating this weekend and use extreme caution to avoid this threat. Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life jacket! * Winds will be breezy this afternoon with some gusts up to 25 mph across parts of the area. If boating on large bodies of water, these strong winds can increase the likelihood of overturning your boat, canoe, or kayak due to increased wave heights.
About
Baldface Shelter offers backcountry camping at the edge of treeline on the popular Baldface Circle Trail in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest. Situated below the granite ledges of South Baldface Mountain, the shelter provides sweeping views of the Evans Notch Valley. The wooden shelter sleeps 6-8 hikers and serves as a base for exploring the exposed alpine terrain above. The site includes a fire ring for campfires, a composting toilet, and access to a natural water source (which must be treated before drinking). A small designated tent camping area near the shelter accommodates additional campers. This is a primitive backcountry site with no potable water, trash service, or other developed amenities. Campers must pack out all waste and practice Leave No Trace principles. The shelter is managed by the Saco Ranger District and is free to use on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required. Dogs are permitted but must remain under control. Bear-proof food storage canisters are required for overnight backcountry trips in the White Mountain National Forest.
Directions
From the Baldface Trailhead on NH Route 113 in Chatham, hike 2.5 miles up the Baldface Circle Trail (south branch) to reach the shelter.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (603) 536-6100 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Baldface Shelter | |
| WMNF FAQs |
Community Posts
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