Thirteen Falls
Open year-round. Fee of $15 per person per night is collected year-round via seasonal caretaker or self-service cash box. Bear canister requirement in effect throughout Pemigewasset Wilderness since May 1, 2026, though the on-site bear box at Thirteen Falls is an approved exception.
Special Weather Statement issued May 23 at 12:09PM EDT by NWS Gray ME
* The warm air temperatures this 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! * Generally light and variable winds shift to southerly today. Winds will be breezy this afternoon with some gusts up to 25 mph. 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
Thirteen Falls Tentsite sits at the confluence of Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook, and Twin Brook Trails in the heart of the Pemigewasset Wilderness, the largest wilderness area in the Northeast and the second-largest Forest Service Wilderness east of the Mississippi. This remote location requires a substantial backcountry hike from Lincoln Woods Trailhead, making it a destination for experienced backpackers seeking solitude amid old-growth forest and cascading waterfalls. The site provides 9 designated tent pads, a composting privy, bear-resistant food storage boxes, and a dishwashing area. Thirteen Falls is the only location within the Pemigewasset Wilderness where the bear box serves as an exception to the mandatory bear canister requirement that took effect May 1, 2026. A seasonal caretaker staffs the site during busy periods; self-service cash boxes handle fee collection otherwise. Campers must bring all drinking water as none is available on-site. Group size is limited to 10 people. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Pemigewasset Wilderness within 200 feet of trails. Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced in this protected wilderness area.
Directions
Access is via Lincoln Woods Trailhead off Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112). From the trailhead, hike the Lincoln Woods Trail to Franconia Brook Trail, then continue to the junction with Twin Brook and Lincoln Brook Trails where the tentsite is located. Total distance is approximately 5-6 miles one way with moderate elevation gain.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $15 |
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 |
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