Garfield Ridge Campsite and Shelter, Appalachian Trail

- Lincoln, NH 03251

For residents of New Hampshire and dedicated outdoor enthusiasts, the Garfield Ridge Campsite and Shelter represents a quintessential White Mountain National Forest backcountry experience. Situated along the renowned Appalachian Trail (AT) just northeast of the summit of Mount Garfield, this location is more than just a place to pitch a tent—it's a vital rest stop and a hub for those tackling some of the region's most challenging and beautiful terrain, including the famed Pemigewasset Wilderness and the Pemi Loop.

Operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) with a caretaker present during the summer months, the campsite is designed to consolidate the impact of hikers on the fragile alpine environment, making it a cornerstone of responsible recreation in the area. It offers a practical and rewarding retreat after a long, strenuous day of hiking, providing much-needed amenities in a truly spectacular, high-elevation setting. The Garfield Ridge Campsite and Shelter, nestled at approximately 3,900 feet, serves as a gateway to stunning, panoramic views and provides a communal, yet rustic, atmosphere that is a hallmark of the Appalachian Trail experience. The site provides an authentic wilderness immersion, reminding local hikers and backpackers of the rugged, untamed beauty right in their backyard. This location’s dedication to maintaining a low-impact presence ensures the majesty of the White Mountains is preserved for generations of New Hampshire adventurers.

The Garfield Ridge Campsite and Shelter is located on the Garfield Ridge Trail, which is part of the Appalachian Trail, within the vast White Mountain National Forest. Its physical address is generally listed as Lincoln, NH 03251, USA. It is important for local users to understand that this is a true backcountry facility, and access is strictly by foot via challenging hiking trails. There is no vehicle access to the site itself.

Common access points from the valleys include the Garfield Trailhead off the Gale River Loop (FR 92) near NH Route 3, or via a longer, more challenging route from the Lincoln Woods Trailhead, which is a key starting point for the Pemi Loop. Hikers coming from the Gale River side will ascend the Garfield Trail, reaching the Garfield Ridge Trail near Mount Garfield’s summit, and then proceed a short distance to the shelter spur path. Those arriving from the south, perhaps completing the Franconia Ridge, will face a significant hike before reaching this welcome haven. Local hikers should be prepared for significant elevation gain and rocky, rugged terrain regardless of their approach. The proximity of the campsite to Mount Garfield’s summit, where breathtaking views of the Franconia Ridge and surrounding peaks are readily available, makes the challenging journey entirely worthwhile for the dedicated New Hampshire adventurer.

While offering a rustic, wilderness experience, the Garfield Ridge Campsite and Shelter provides several essential services to ensure a safe and responsible stay for hikers. Please note that a fee is typically charged per person per night by the AMC caretaker during the operational season, and all sites are generally first-come, first-served, making early arrival advisable, particularly on weekends.

• Communal Adirondack-Style Shelter: A three-sided wooden shelter, capable of accommodating approximately 10-12 persons, providing a dry, communal space for rest and protection from the elements.
• Designated Tent Platforms: Multiple wooden platforms are available for setting up tents, including single and double platforms (accommodating 2-5 tents, depending on size), which minimize impact on the surrounding vegetation and offer level ground for sleeping.
• Caretaker Presence: An Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Caretaker is typically on-site during the main hiking season (late Spring through Fall) to collect fees, manage the site, provide information, and promote Leave No Trace principles.
• Reliable Water Source: A natural spring or stream is located near the main trail, providing water that must be treated (filtered, boiled, or chemically purified) before consumption.
• Composting Privy: An outhouse facility is provided to manage human waste responsibly in this high-use area.
• Metal Food Storage Boxes (Bear Boxes): Available in the cooking and dining area to safely store food and scented items away from wildlife, mandatory for bear protection.

The appeal of the Garfield Ridge Campsite extends beyond its utility as a backcountry lodging option. It boasts several features that make it a truly memorable destination for local New Hampshire hikers.

• Proximity to Mount Garfield Summit: The campsite is located just a short distance from the summit of Mount Garfield, offering incredible sunrise and sunset viewing opportunities with expansive, sweeping views of the Franconia Ridge and the vast Pemigewasset Wilderness.
• Strategic AT Location: As a crucial point on the Appalachian Trail, it offers a prime spot for local hikers to intersect with thru-hikers and experience the trail's unique culture and community, exchanging stories and trail conditions.
• Protection from Elements: The combination of a rebuilt, sturdy shelter and numerous tent platforms offers superior protection from the unpredictable and often harsh weather conditions common at this high elevation in the White Mountains.
• Dedicated Eating Area: A separate, designated cooking and dining area encourages hikers to keep food away from sleeping areas, which is a critical Leave No Trace practice for bear and rodent safety.
• Rugged Wilderness Experience: The surrounding trails and environment provide a truly challenging, authentic New Hampshire wilderness trek, a perfect training ground for experienced local hikers.

Please remember this site is a backcountry location and does not have a physical storefront or visitor center at the location itself. All inquiries should be directed to the managing or governing bodies responsible for this area of the White Mountain National Forest.

Address (General Location for Area): Lincoln, NH 03251, USA

Primary Land Manager (White Mountain National Forest - WMNF): The best general phone number for trail conditions, general forest information, and regulations within the WMNF is typically a local Ranger District office. For the Lincoln area, users might contact the Pemigewasset Ranger District. A current phone number can be found by searching the WMNF official website.

Site Operator (Appalachian Mountain Club - AMC): For details on fees, specific campsite status, and caretaker dates, the Appalachian Mountain Club’s White Mountain backcountry information is the authoritative source.

Note: There is no direct phone number for the Garfield Ridge Campsite and Shelter itself; communication is only possible via foot travel.

For New Hampshire's local hiking community, the Garfield Ridge Campsite and Shelter is an invaluable resource and a must-experience destination. It provides the essential infrastructure—shelter, tent platforms, bear-proof storage, and a privy—that allows locals to safely and responsibly enjoy multi-day backpacking trips through one of the most rugged and beautiful parts of the state. Whether you are an experienced backpacker completing the challenging Pemi Loop, a weekend warrior seeking a strenuous climb to a high-mountain viewpoint, or simply a resident looking to connect with the famed Appalachian Trail, this campsite provides the perfect base. It facilitates a deeper connection with the state's natural heritage, offering unparalleled views and a necessary sense of accomplishment after navigating the difficult, rocky trails. Utilizing designated sites like Garfield Ridge helps local users practice and promote responsible backcountry ethics, ensuring that the natural splendor of the White Mountains remains protected for all. Its blend of essential services and awe-inspiring natural surroundings makes it a genuinely local treasure for those willing to earn the reward of reaching it.

Garfield Ridge Campsite and Shelter, Appalachian Trail

Lincoln, NH 03251, USA