Esker Campsite
Open for camping. Reservations available via Recreation.gov from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. Unreserved sites available first-come, first-served the day of arrival. No fee required. Note: increased logging activity on Swift Brook Road, use caution when driving.
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.
Special Weather Statement issued May 23 at 5:27AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid to upper 60s 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!
About
Esker Campsite is a primitive backcountry destination within Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, situated on the bank of Wassataquoik Stream in a shaded forested setting. The site requires a 2.2-mile hike or bike ride from the Wassataquoik Gate, accessed via Swift Brook Road from the south entrance. The grassy, leveled tent area accommodates up to 5 people. The campsite provides basic amenities including a metal fire ring with stones and a wooden picnic table. However, true to its backcountry nature, there is no potable water, no toilets, and no trash service. Campers must bring their own water supply or filter from natural sources, and practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash. Campfires are permitted in the provided fire ring; firewood must be obtained locally within 10 miles. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. Unreserved sites are available first-come, first-served on the day of arrival. There is no fee for this site. Pets are allowed but must remain on a leash of six feet or less at all times. Note that there is no cell phone service in this area.
Directions
From the intersection of Maine State Route 11 and Swift Brook Road in Stacyville, drive approximately 12 miles to the Katahdin Loop Road. From the start of the Loop Road, continue approximately 5.5 miles to the parking area at the Wassataquoik Gate. From the parking area, hike or bike approximately 2.2 miles to the Esker Campsite.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| 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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