Upper East Branch Campsite
Open for camping from late May through mid-November when the Loop Road is accessible by vehicle. Reservations available on Recreation.gov from Memorial Day weekend through October 31; unreserved nights are available first-come, first-served. Hunting season begins August 23 east of the East Branch Penobscot River. The Katahdin Overlook is closed for construction. A collapsed bridge near Big Spring Brook Hut blocks foot and bike travel in that area.
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!
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.
About
Upper East Branch Campsite sits on the banks of the East Branch Penobscot River within Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, offering a wide clearing shaded by forest with space for multiple tents. The site is approximately 1.1 miles from the north gate and requires a short 115-foot walk from the parking area. River access via stone stairs makes this an ideal base for paddlers and anglers, while the remote location provides excellent conditions for night sky viewing. The campsite includes two picnic tables, a metal fire ring, and a food storage locker to secure odorous items from wildlife. A vault toilet is available nearby, including an ADA-accessible unit, though campers should note the path to the river is not accessible. No potable water exists anywhere in the monument, so visitors must bring their own supply or a water filter. Campfires are allowed only in the provided fire ring and require a free Maine Forest Service campfire permit, which can be obtained by calling 207-435-7963. Firewood must be sourced locally, within 10 miles, to prevent the spread of invasive insects. RVs and trailers are not permitted at this walk-in site.
Directions
From the north entrance of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, drive approximately 1.1 miles on the Loop Road. The campsite parking area is on the left. From the parking space, walk about 115 feet to the campsite clearing.
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 (207) 456-6001 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!