Stair Falls Campsite
Closed — Closed for the winter season. Reservations available on Recreation.gov from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. Unreserved sites are first-come, first-served on the day of arrival during the operating season.
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.
Winter Weather Advisory issued December 29 at 7:58PM EST until December 30 at 1:00AM EST by NWS Caribou ME
* WHAT...Mixed precipitation. Additional snow accumulations up to one inch and ice accumulations around a light glaze. * WHERE...Portions of Central Highlands, Far Eastern, and North Woods Maine * WHEN...Until 1 AM EST Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions.
About
Stair Falls Campsite is a remote primitive campsite located along the East Branch of the Penobscot River within Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. This backcountry site can be accessed via a 2-mile hike or bike ride from Haskell Gate at the north entrance, or by paddling down the East Branch Penobscot River. The site features basic amenities including a picnic table, bear-proof food storage locker, and designated fire pit. The campsite is positioned at the portage trail for Stair Falls, making it an ideal spot for paddlers navigating this section of the river. Campers must be self-sufficient as there are no water sources or toilet facilities on site. All trash must be packed out following Leave No Trace principles. Campfires require a free Maine Forest Service campfire permit, easily obtained by contacting the Northern Region Headquarters in Ashland. This single-site campground offers a true backcountry experience in the heart of Maine's North Woods. The surrounding area provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and exploring the monument's rugged landscape. Vehicles are not permitted at the campsite, ensuring a quiet, wilderness setting for tent camping only.
Directions
From the north entrance to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, drive approximately 4.4 miles to Haskell Gate. From Haskell Gate, hike or bike 2 miles to reach Stair Falls Campsite. Alternatively, access by paddling the East Branch Penobscot River.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| 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 |
Useful Links
| Reservations | |
| Regulations |
Photos
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