Camp Penacook Shelter
Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations accepted. Campers must bring their own water and bear-proof food storage. Forest-wide fire danger is currently low.
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
Camp Penacook Shelter is a backcountry 3-sided shelter located on the southeast slopes of Mt. Chocorua within the Mount Chocorua Scenic Area of the White Mountain National Forest. Positioned roughly 1.5 miles from the summit, the shelter provides a base for hikers exploring this popular peak via the Piper Trail. The shelter accommodates 6-8 people and features a small earthen tent pad below that can fit one small tent. A pit toilet is located in the vicinity. There is no potable water at the site, so hikers must pack in all drinking water. Scenic granite slab overlooks to the east near the Piper Trail junction offer rewarding views. As a primitive backcountry shelter, Camp Penacook operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. Standard White Mountain National Forest backcountry regulations apply, including the requirement to carry a bear-proof canister for food storage.
Directions
From NH Route 16 in Albany, take the Piper Trail to access Camp Penacook Shelter, located approximately 1.5 miles below the summit of Mt. Chocorua on the southeast side of the mountain.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| 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 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Useful Links
| USFS Camp Penacook Shelter | |
| WMNF Camping & Cabins |
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