Coppermine Shelter
02 reviewsCoppermine Shelter
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fee required.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Tucked away at the end of the scenic Coppermine Trail, this intimate backcountry shelter offers a true wilderness experience for up to 6 adventurers seeking solitude in the White Mountain National Forest. The rustic shelter provides basic protection from the elements while immersing visitors in pristine nature, with the thundering cascade of nearby Bridal Veil Falls serving as nature's soundtrack. This dispersed camping gem requires a commitment to leave-no-trace principles, as there are no designated tent sites or privy facilities—making it perfect for experienced outdoors enthusiasts who appreciate unspoiled wilderness.
The Coppermine Shelter supports dispersed camping and is primarily designed for hikers. "Dispersed Camping" is noted as the activity type by official sources.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint this mountain refuge in dramatically different palettes throughout the year. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though bitter cold—with temperatures plummeting to 10°F—demands proper preparation and gear. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing snowmelt, while autumn sets the hillsides ablaze with New England's legendary foliage display. Summer offers the most accessible conditions, with pleasant temperatures climbing to the mid-70s°F, perfect for hiking and waterfall exploration. Each season brings its own rewards, though winter's deep snows may challenge less experienced visitors.
Natural Features and SceneryThe shelter sits within a cathedral of towering evergreens and hardwoods, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy to dance on the forest floor. The star attraction remains the magnificent Bridal Veil Falls, whose cascading waters create a mesmerizing display of power and grace just a short walk from camp. Ancient moss-covered boulders and babbling brooks complete the enchanting tableau, while the surrounding old-growth forest provides endless opportunities for exploration and quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionNestled deep within the rugged terrain of the White Mountain National Forest, this backcountry haven showcases the raw beauty of New Hampshire's ancient mountain landscape. The well-worn Coppermine Trail winds through diverse forest ecosystems before culminating at the shelter, where millions of years of geological forces have carved out the dramatic gorge that cradles Bridal Veil Falls. This pristine pocket of wilderness represents the untamed heart of the White Mountains, offering visitors an authentic taste of New England's natural heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no information provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe shelter is designed to accommodate approximately 6 people.
Sites PrivacyThere is no mention of privacy features for campsites. However, user reviews suggest the area can be very busy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPlan to arrive early to secure parking and a spot at the shelter. Be prepared for potentially slippery terrain near the falls.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Approximately 6 people
Groups
No dedicated group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe layout includes one shelter with no designated tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, 24 hours/day.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll spaces are first-come, first-served; no reservation system is in place.
Activities you can enjoy
The main activities at the Coppermine Shelter revolve around hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings. The shelter is located near Bridal Veil Falls, which is a highlight for visitors. "Nice hike, great payoff with the falls as your reward" (user review).
Hiking
Hiking is a primary activity here, with the Coppermine Trail leading to the shelter. The trail is 2.5 miles long and ends near the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls.Winter Activities
No information is provided about winter-specific recreational activities.Water Sports
No information is provided about non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rapidly changing weather and difficult terrain near Bridal Veil Falls, which can become slippery. Wildlife may also be present.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information is provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe shelter is located near Bridal Veil Falls, providing access to a scenic water feature.
Common complaintsUser reviews note that the area can become busy, with limited parking and hard-to-navigate branching trails.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe Coppermine Shelter is located at the terminus of the Coppermine Trail, 2.5 miles from NH Rte 116 in Franconia. It is near Bridal Veil Falls.
The shelter is accessible via the Coppermine Trail, a 2.5-mile hike from NH Route 116. Nearby parking accommodates about 8 cars.Nearby places
Franconia (distance not specified)
distances to other population centers are not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Coppermine Shelter has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning natural beauty of the area, especially Bridal Veil Falls, and the utility of the Coppermine Shelter for overnight stays. However, some users note that it can be crowded.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the beauty of Bridal Veil Falls and the well-maintained shelter. "Really beautiful waterfall and the shelter would have been a great place to spend the night" (user review).
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
The most common complaint is the high number of visitors, which detracts from the secluded experience. One user mentioned, "Super busy, and we were the only NH plates there so it's no secret anymore."
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Plan your hike to avoid crowds and ensure you have adequate daylight for the return trip. A user recommends, "Gets dark fast when the sun sets, plan accordingly."
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is popular during fair weather, but no specific seasonal trends were noted in the comments.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice hike, great payoff with the falls as your reward. Shelter sleeps 6, recently repaired and elevated... Great place to spend the night" (user review).
"Really beautiful waterfall and the shelter...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users mention that the shelter is recently repaired and elevated. The area near Bridal Veil Falls is a highlight.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention experiences with pets.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025