Haskell Campsite
Open for camping. First-come, first-served backcountry campsite with no fee. No potable water available; bring your own or a filter. Pack out all trash. Campfires require a free Maine Forest Service permit. Hunting season begins August 23, 2026; wear high-visibility clothing.
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.
About
Haskell Deadwater Campsite offers a true backcountry experience in Maine's remote North Woods, located within the International Dark Sky Sanctuary of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. The site sits along the East Branch Penobscot River near Haskell Deadwater, a calm section of water upstream from Haskell Rock Pitch where a dramatic 20-foot conglomerate boulder juts into the rapids. The rock is named for logger William Haskell, who died at this location. Access requires a 2-mile hike or bike ride from Haskell Gate along the International Appalachian Trail, or arrival by paddle. There is no road vehicle access. The site features a leveled grassy tent area with river access, a pit toilet with toilet paper storage, a picnic table, a fire ring, and a metal food storage locker. Visitors must bring all drinking water (or a filter), pack out all trash, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Campfires are permitted in the designated fire ring with a valid Maine Forest Service campfire permit. Firewood must be obtained locally within 10 miles to prevent the spread of invasive insects. Cell phone service is unavailable. The site accommodates up to 10 people and is ideal for stargazing given the monument's certified dark sky status.
Directions
From Haskell Gate, follow the International Appalachian Trail east for approximately 2 miles. The site can also be reached by paddling the East Branch Penobscot River.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| 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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