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.
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
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
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