Franconia Brook Campsites

Closed

Currently closed due to a food-habituated black bear that damaged multiple tents. The closure began in August 2025 and remains in effect until the Forest Service determines the bear no longer poses a safety risk. Camping within 0.25 miles of the site is also prohibited.

About

Franconia Brook Tentsite sits along the Eastside Trail in the heart of the Pemigewasset Wilderness, offering approximately 20 primitive campsites on the east bank of the Pemigewasset River. Each site is marked with a numbered stake and includes a fire ring. The area is accessed via a 3-mile hike from the Lincoln Woods trailhead off Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112). Facilities are minimal but functional for backcountry standards: two composting toilets serve the area, and a communal bear box is available for food storage. The Forest Service strongly encourages using the bear box rather than hanging food, though campers should bring rope as the box often fills quickly during peak season. There is no potable water; campers must filter or treat water from the nearby East Branch of the Pemigewasset River. This is a pack-it-out site with no trash service. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations and no fees. Overnight visitors must comply with the Pemigewasset Wilderness food storage order, which requires proper storage of all food and scented items.

Directions

From Lincoln, NH, take Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112) east to the Lincoln Woods trailhead. Hike the Lincoln Woods Trail, then take the Eastside Trail south along the east bank of the Pemigewasset River. The tentsite is approximately 3 miles from the trailhead.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
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

Contact

Phone +1 (603) 536-6100

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

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