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.
Heat Advisory issued July 3 at 1:33PM EDT until July 3 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 95 expected today. * WHERE...Northern Penobscot and Southeast Aroostook Counties. * WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.
Air Quality Alert issued July 2 at 3:15PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Air Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for particle pollution until midnight EDT Sunday night. Particle pollution levels rose into the Unhealthy range earlier this afternoon and continue to be high. Smoke from fires in Quebec moved into Maine today. For the Northen region, people are advised to follow the health message if visibility is poor or they can smell smoke. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, older adults, those who work outdoors, those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma, and those with heart disease. It is okay to be active outdoors. But if you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation or an uncomfortable sensation in your chest, please consider limiting the intensity and duration of your outdoor activities. A toll free air quality hotline has been established so Maine residents can stay informed on the air quality situations. The toll free number is: 1-800-223-1196. Additionally the Maine Department of Environmental Protection has the air quality forecast available on the web at www.maine.gov/dep/air/aqforecast.
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.
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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