Cold River
Currently closed for the season. Opens May 22, 2026. Operating season runs mid-May through mid-October. Reservations available through Recreation.gov; some sites are first-come, first-served.
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
Cold River Campground occupies a quiet corner of White Mountain National Forest at the southern end of Evans Notch. The 14 sites are arranged in a single loop through a pleasant mixed hardwood and pine forest. Despite its small size, the campground provides a solid base for exploring the surrounding backcountry, including the Caribou-Speckled Mountain Wilderness. Evans Brook flows nearby, and the 23-acre Basin Pond lies within easy reach for trout fishing and canoeing. The 4.5-mile Basin Trail departs from neighboring Basin Campground, and numerous other hiking and mountain biking routes are accessible by short drives. Wildlife sightings are common, including moose, white-tailed deer, black bear, and nearly 200 bird species. The campground offers vault toilets, potable water from a hand pump, and a picnic pavilion. Groceries, fuel, and other conveniences are available in Fryeburg, Gilead, and Stow, Maine.
Directions
From Fryeburg, Maine, take Route 113 north approximately 15 miles. The campground is at the southern end of Evans Notch.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $24 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 40ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 40ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (603) 447-2166 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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