Sawyer Pond Shelter & Tent Platforms
Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations accepted. Free to use. Potable water is not available; campers must bring their own water supply.
Special Weather Statement issued May 24 at 2:21AM EDT by NWS Gray ME
* The warm air temperatures later this Holiday 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! * Winds will be breezy this afternoon with some gusts up to 25 mph across parts of the area. 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
Sawyer Pond Shelter & Tent Platforms offers a classic New England backcountry camping experience at the scenic edge of Big Sawyer Pond. The site includes one three-sided wooden shelter that accommodates up to 6 people, along with six elevated tent platforms that each hold up to 8 campers. Two pit toilets serve the campsite. This is a primitive backcountry facility with no potable water, so all campers must pack in their own drinking water. The campsite is accessible via two routes: a shorter 1.5-mile hike from the end of Sawyer River Road, or a longer 4.5-mile trek from the Sawyer Pond Trailhead on the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112). The shorter approach makes this an excellent option for beginner backpackers or those seeking a quick overnight wilderness experience. As a backcountry site in the White Mountain National Forest, standard Leave No Trace ethics apply. Campers must pack out all trash and should bring a bear canister for food storage. Group size is limited to 10 people. Dogs are permitted but must be leashed at the campsite.
Directions
From the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112), take the Sawyer Pond Trail for 4.5 miles to the campsite. Alternatively, take Sawyer River Road to its end and hike 1.5 miles to reach the site.
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 (603) 536-6100 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Sawyer Pond Shelter & Tentsite | |
| WMNF Camping & Cabins |
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