Sandbank Stream Campground
Open for the 2026 season. Reservations available on Recreation.gov from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October; unreserved sites available first-come, first-served. Note: logging trucks are active on Swift Brook Road, the access route to this campground. Roads typically close mid-November depending on snow.
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
Sandbank Stream Campground sits at the southern entrance to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, roughly 10 miles from the intersection of Route 11 and Swift Brook Road. The three campsites occupy a mostly flat, compacted gravel area near the beginning of the Katahdin Loop Road, making it the most accessible drive-to camping option in the monument and the only one suitable for small RVs and trailers up to 27 feet. Amenities are primitive: each site has a fire ring and picnic table, with vault toilets and food storage lockers (bear boxes) available nearby. There is no potable water, trash service, or cell phone coverage. Campers must bring all water, pack out all trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles. Campfires require a free permit from the Maine Forest Service. 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. Roads within the monument typically open to motorized vehicles from late May to mid-November depending on conditions. A short interpretive trail near the campground leads to a wetland habitat viewpoint.
Directions
From Route 11, turn onto Swift Brook Road and drive approximately 10 miles. The campsites will be on your left, near the beginning of the Katahdin Loop Road.
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 | 27ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 27ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (207) 456-6001 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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