Wassataquoik Lean-to
Open for camping. Reservations available via Recreation.gov from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October. Unreserved dates are first-come, first-served. No potable water on site. Logging trucks are currently active on Swift Brook Road (the access route from the south entrance); use caution and pull over for 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 23 at 5:27AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid to upper 60s 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 23 at 5:21AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid to upper 60s 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 Lean-to offers a classic backcountry camping experience in Maine's Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. This three-sided log shelter with a roof sits along the International Appalachian Trail near Wassataquoik Stream, providing a raised sleeping platform protected from the elements. The site is reached via a 0.9-mile hike from the Wassataquoik Gate or 1.4 miles from the Barnard Mountain Trailhead, with access to the Wassataquoik Gate via the south entrance on Swift Brook Road. The lean-to accommodates 1-6 people and includes a fire ring and wooden picnic table. An outhouse is located nearby. There is no potable water anywhere in the monument, so campers must bring their own water supply or be prepared to filter from natural sources. Campfires are permitted in the provided fire ring but require a valid Maine Forest Service campfire permit, which can be obtained free of charge by contacting the Maine Forest Service Northern Region Headquarters. This is a pack-it-out site with no trash service. There is no cell phone coverage at the site. Pets are not permitted in lean-tos. Firewood must be purchased locally within 10 miles of the monument; out-of-state firewood is prohibited to prevent the spread of invasive insects.
Directions
Access the Wassataquoik Gate via the south entrance on Swift Brook Road. The lean-to is 0.9 miles from the Wassataquoik Gate or 1.4 miles from the Barnard Mountain Trailhead. Hike or bike required; no vehicle access to the site.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| 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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