Stafford Notch Campsite 2013.1, New Portland, ME

Introduction / Overview

For Mainers seeking a true wilderness challenge and an authentic immersion into the famed Appalachian National Scenic Trail (AT), the

Stafford Notch Campsite

offers a quintessential backcountry experience. Located deep within the Bigelow Ecological Reserve in the rugged mountainous terrain of Western Maine, this campsite is a vital stop for hikers traversing one of the state's most challenging and beautiful stretches of trail. It is named for the Safford family, early settlers in the region, and is a testament to the state's commitment to preserving its wildlands.

Stafford Notch Campsite is not a drive-up destination; it is a rustic, hike-in site maintained by the Maine Appalachian Trail Club (MATC). It is ideally situated to serve as a base camp for ascending the challenging Bigelow Range, which includes several peaks over 4,000 feet, such as Avery Peak. The camping experience here is minimalist and focused entirely on sustainable outdoor ethics, adhering strictly to

Leave No Trace

principles. While the site itself is nestled in the woods and lacks views, it provides essential infrastructure—tent sites, water access, and a privy—to support hikers as they tackle the demanding ascents and enjoy the subsequent panoramic alpine views of Flagstaff Lake and the surrounding mountains.

The terrain leading to and from the campsite is accurately rated as moderate to difficult, featuring the notorious Maine combination of rocks, roots, and steep inclines. A stay at Stafford Notch Campsite is a rite of passage for many local hikers and a chance to share the trail with long-distance thru-hikers, all while enjoying the incomparable solitude of the Bigelow Preserve.

Location and Accessibility

Stafford Notch Campsite is located near the town of New Portland, Maine, specifically along the

Appalachian National Scenic Trail, New Portland, ME 04961, USA

, positioning it within the Bigelow Ecological Reserve.

Access to the campsite is strictly by foot via the Safford Brook Trail or directly from the Appalachian Trail.

Vehicle Access: To reach the primary trailhead, drivers must navigate the paved Long Falls Dam Road, eventually turning onto the gravel East Flagstaff Road. While a special 4x4 vehicle is not typically required, drivers should be aware that the roads in this region are often used by logging trucks, requiring caution and slow speeds.
Trailhead Location: The trailhead for the Safford Brook Trail is a designated gravel parking area off East Flagstaff Road.
Hike-In Route: The most common and direct route to the campsite is via the Safford Brook Trail, which is approximately a
2.3-mile hike
from the parking area. The trail begins gradually before emerging into a rocky and rooted incline, with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet to reach the intersection with the AT.
Campsite Access: The campsite is a short side trail off the main Appalachian Trail near the notch. It sits at an elevation of approximately 2,172 feet (662 meters).

Hikers should note that the most rewarding

views

are not found at the campsite itself, but rather on the more strenuous ascent to Myron H. Avery Peak and the exposed ridgeline of the Bigelow Range, located a challenging climb away from the campsite.

Services Offered

As a backcountry Appalachian Trail site, Stafford Notch Campsite offers essential, low-impact services designed for sustainable camping:

Campsites: The area provides multiple tenting locations, which include several earthen tent sites and typically at least
four designated tent sites
, sometimes including wooden tent platforms.
Sanitation: A designated
privy (outhouse)
is located up a slight hill from the campsite area, providing necessary sanitation while minimizing environmental impact.
Water Source: The campsite has good access to a
water source
(Stafford Brook or a nearby spring/stream), which is necessary for cooking and drinking. As with all natural water sources in the backcountry, all water must be treated—filtered, purified, or boiled—before consumption.
Fire Use: Open fires are only allowed in
designated fire rings
, and responsible use, including obtaining necessary permits and sourcing wood, is strictly enforced to protect the forest environment.
Food Storage:
Highly recommended food hanging
is necessary due to active and aggressive local wildlife, particularly red squirrels, which have been known to chew through gear to access unsecured food supplies.
Backcountry Regulations: The site operates under the management of the Maine Appalachian Trail Club (MATC) and the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands, requiring adherence to all posted regulations, including group size limits and the Leave No Trace ethic.

Features / Highlights

The primary appeal of Stafford Notch Campsite lies in its location and the unparalleled access it grants to the high-country features of the Bigelow Preserve:

Gateway to the Bigelow Range: The site is perfectly positioned for hikers planning to summit Avery Peak (Myron H. Avery Peak) and West Peak, offering views that rank among the finest in Maine, comparable to those from Katahdin.
The Notch and Boulders: The immediate area, known as Safford Notch, is famous for its
"house-sized" boulders
and narrow passages, a dramatic feature of the trail and a geological wonder.
Scenic Overlook Access: Though the campsite is sheltered, a side trail or continued ascent leads to
The Old Man's Head viewpoint
, which offers spectacular views to the east, including Flagstaff Lake and the High Peaks region.
AT Culture: Staying here offers a unique opportunity to interact with and support Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, connecting you to the larger trail community and its rich history.
Historic Route: The Safford Brook Trail route follows a section of the old "Dead River Route" of the AT from the 1930s, lending a historical element to the hike.
Challenging but Rewarding Terrain: The moderate to difficult hike to the campsite and the strenuous climb beyond provide a deeply satisfying physical challenge for seasoned Maine hikers.

Contact Information

Given its remote nature, Stafford Notch Campsite does not have its own dedicated phone line, and reservations are generally not required for these backcountry AT sites, but hikers should always check the most recent trail regulations.

Location Address (General Area):

Appalachian National Scenic Trail, New Portland, ME 04961, USA

Management Authority (Maine Appalachian Trail Club - MATC):

For current trail conditions, maintenance updates, and specific campsite rules, the Maine Appalachian Trail Club is the authoritative source. General inquiries can be made through their website or main administrative contact.

Emergency Services:

Cell service is generally poor or nonexistent in this remote area. Hikers should not rely on cell phones in an emergency and must carry a backup plan, such as a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Stafford Notch Campsite is uniquely suitable for Maine locals who truly understand and embrace the state’s rugged hiking culture. This is the heart of Maine’s High Peaks, where challenging hiking yields magnificent rewards. For local residents, this campsite is an opportunity to push past the popular day-hike destinations and immerse themselves in the deep woods of the Bigelow Preserve. It serves as a vital training ground for aspiring backpackers and a cherished stretch of trail for veteran hikers.

The experience is a lesson in self-sufficiency—from safely managing food storage against bold squirrels to treating your own water. By utilizing this site, locals support the long-term conservation efforts of the MATC and the Bureau of Parks and Lands, helping to maintain one of the most celebrated sections of the entire Appalachian Trail. If you're a Mainer looking for an escape that combines strenuous physical activity with unparalleled natural beauty and a genuine backcountry environment, a trip to Stafford Notch Campsite is highly recommended. It’s where you truly feel the untamed spirit of the Maine woods.