Big Seboeis Campsite
Open for the 2026 season. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. Outside the reservation window, the site operates first-come, first-served. Hunting season begins August 23 east of the East Branch of the Penobscot River; high-visibility clothing is advised on all monument land during this period.
Special Weather Statement issued May 24 at 5:55AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid 60s to low 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only around 50 degrees on Moosehead Lake and in the middle to upper 50s on smaller lakes and rivers. * The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the Maine Warden Service, when the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could lose 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!
Special Weather Statement issued May 24 at 5:55AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid 60s to low 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only around 50 degrees on Moosehead Lake and in the middle to upper 50s on smaller lakes and rivers. * The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the Maine Warden Service, when the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could lose 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!
Katahdin Overlook Closure
The Katahdin Overlook is currently closed for construction. Visitors are not permitted in the overlook area due to construction hazards. It is still possible to access anything else on the loop road.
Impassable Bridge Near Big Spring Brook Hut
There is an impassable collapsed bridge near Big Spring Brook Hut located at the north section of the monument (46.0333633333, -68.7807583333). This area is impassable by foot traffic and bike.
Bridge Repairs and Closures
Seboeis River Bridge will be closed to traffic August 27-29 for repairs. This will impact travel into the Seboeis parcel via Charlie's Rd. A bridge over Ragged Brook will be closed September 2-4 for repairs and impact travel towards Philpott Bridge.
Increased Logging Activity on Swift Brook Road
Logging trucks and other large machinery will be active on Swift Brook Road for an undetermined amount of time. Please use caution when driving. Always pull over for logging trucks, and wait until dust has cleared to continue moving.
Hunting Season Begins August 23rd
Hunting season is upon us! Please stay alert and be mindful of the rights of lawful hunters. Hunting is permitted only East of the East Branch of the Penobscot River, but it is advised to wear high visibility clothing on all monument land.
About
Big Seboeis Campsite offers a true backcountry experience in Maine's Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. Located on the west bank of the East Branch of the Penobscot River, this single primitive site accommodates up to six campers and can only be reached by paddling upstream from Lunksoos Boat Launch or by hiking approximately 6.3 miles from Wassataquoik Gate via the International Appalachian Trail, fording Wassataquoik Stream, then following Ed Wherler Trail and Telos Tote Trail. The campsite provides two wooden picnic tables, a metal fire ring, and access to a pit toilet located roughly 200 feet southeast via a dirt trail. There is no potable water anywhere in the monument, so campers must bring their own water or filter from the river. Cell phone service is unavailable. Campfires are permitted only in the provided fire ring and require a free Maine Forest Service campfire permit obtained in advance. This is a pack-in, pack-out site following Leave No Trace principles. Firewood must be obtained locally within 10 miles due to Maine's restrictions on transporting untreated firewood. Pets are welcome but must remain on a leash of six feet or less at all times.
Directions
Access by paddling upstream 2.25 miles from Lunksoos Boat Launch on the East Branch of the Penobscot River. Look for the brown Big Seboeis Campsite sign on the west bank. Alternatively, hike 6.3 miles from Wassataquoik Gate parking area via the IAT, fording Wassataquoik Stream, then continuing on Ed Wherler Trail and Telos Tote Trail.
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 (207) 456-6001 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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