Stair Falls Campsite
Open for the season. Reservations available via Recreation.gov from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. Unreserved nights are first-come, first-served the day of arrival. No fee required. Campfires require a free Maine Forest Service permit. Hunting season begins August 23; wear high-visibility clothing.
Heat Advisory issued July 3 at 1:33PM EDT until July 3 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 95 expected today. * WHERE...Northern Penobscot and Southeast Aroostook Counties. * WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.
Air Quality Alert issued July 2 at 3:15PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Air Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for particle pollution until midnight EDT Sunday night. Particle pollution levels rose into the Unhealthy range earlier this afternoon and continue to be high. Smoke from fires in Quebec moved into Maine today. For the Northen region, people are advised to follow the health message if visibility is poor or they can smell smoke. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, older adults, those who work outdoors, those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma, and those with heart disease. It is okay to be active outdoors. But if you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation or an uncomfortable sensation in your chest, please consider limiting the intensity and duration of your outdoor activities. A toll free air quality hotline has been established so Maine residents can stay informed on the air quality situations. The toll free number is: 1-800-223-1196. Additionally the Maine Department of Environmental Protection has the air quality forecast available on the web at www.maine.gov/dep/air/aqforecast.
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.
About
Stair Falls Campsite sits along one of the most scenic stretches of the East Branch Penobscot River, where the water drops 18 feet over parallel bedrock ridges that resemble a staircase. The name originates from surveyor Maynard Marsh's 1793 expedition, when he described the falls as "the handsomest falls I ever saw... as regular as a stair case." This primitive walk-in or paddle-in site accommodates up to 5 campers and includes a picnic table, metal fire ring, and bear-resistant food storage locker. There is no potable water, no toilets, no trash service, and no cell phone coverage. Campers must pack out all waste and bring a water filter. The nearest vault toilets are at North Gate parking lot or Oxbow Picnic Area. Campfires are permitted only in the provided fire ring and require a valid Maine Forest Service campfire permit. Firewood must be purchased locally within 10 miles due to state regulations on preventing invasive pests. The established portage trail for Stair Falls passes through the campsite, so expect occasional paddler traffic.
Directions
From the monument's north entrance, drive approximately 4.4 miles to Haskell Gate. From Haskell Gate, hike or bike 2 miles along the International Appalachian Trail to reach the campsite. Alternatively, paddle down the East Branch Penobscot River.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| 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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