Wassataquoik Campsite
Open for camping. Reservations available via Recreation.gov between Memorial Day weekend and mid-October. Unreserved sites available first-come, first-served the day of arrival. Note: Swift Brook Road (south entrance access) has active logging operations; use caution and yield to logging trucks.
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
Wassataquoik Campsite offers a true backcountry experience in Maine's Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. Situated alongside Katahdin Brook near the Wassataquoik Lean-to, this primitive tent site is accessible only by foot or bike. The site is 0.9 miles from the Wassataquoik Gate trailhead via the International Appalachian Trail, with alternate access 1.4 miles from Barnard Mountain Trailhead. Access to the Wassataquoik Gate is via the south entrance on Swift Brook Road. This is a minimalist backcountry site with just a picnic table and a fire ring. There is no potable water, no toilets, no trash service, and no cell phone service. Campers must bring their own water or filter from natural sources and pack out all trash. Campfires are permitted only with a valid Maine Forest Service campfire permit; contact them at 207-435-7963 for a free permit. Firewood must be sourced locally within 10 miles. Camp stoves are allowed without a permit. The site accommodates up to 5 people with a maximum of one party. Pets are allowed on leashes no longer than 6 feet. Bear-resistant food storage is required. Check-in is at 1:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Directions
From the south entrance, take Swift Brook Road to the Wassataquoik Gate trailhead. The campsite is a 0.9-mile hike from the gate. Alternatively, access via a 1.4-mile hike from Barnard Mountain Trailhead. No vehicle access to the campsite itself.
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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