Franconia Brook Campsites
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.
Special Weather Statement issued May 23 at 12:09PM EDT by NWS Gray ME
* The warm air temperatures this 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! * Generally light and variable winds shift to southerly today. Winds will be breezy this afternoon with some gusts up to 25 mph. 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
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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