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.
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.
Special Weather Statement issued May 24 at 5:55AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid 60s to low 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only around 50 degrees on Moosehead Lake and in the middle to upper 50s on smaller lakes and rivers. * The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the Maine Warden Service, when the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could lose 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!
Special Weather Statement issued May 24 at 5:55AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid 60s to low 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only around 50 degrees on Moosehead Lake and in the middle to upper 50s on smaller lakes and rivers. * The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the Maine Warden Service, when the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could lose 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!
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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