Kinsman Pond Shelter
4.509 reviewsKinsman Pond Shelter
$15.00 - $15.00 / 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
Fee is $15 per person per night and is collected year-round. Utilize self-service cash boxes when caretaker is not present.
About this campground
Perched on the pristine northern shore of Kinsman Pond at 3,750 feet, this mountain sanctuary offers a perfect basecamp for adventurers exploring the heart of New Hampshire's high country. The well-appointed shelter accommodates up to 12 guests, while additional camping options include one group platform and three individual tent platforms scattered throughout the site. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the wilderness setting, featuring a composting outhouse, dedicated dishwashing station, and secure bear box for food storage. During peak season, a knowledgeable caretaker is on-site to assist visitors and share local insights. Three major trails converge here—the Kinsman Pond, Kinsman Ridge, and Fishin' Jiminy Trails—making this an ideal hub for multi-day hiking adventures.
The campground is designed for rustic and dispersed camping, suitable for hikers and groups. It features a double-decker shelter and designated tent platforms.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsLife at nearly 4,000 feet brings its own meteorological drama, where mountain weather writes its own rules. Expect crisp, often cold conditions that remind you you're in true alpine territory—pack those extra layers even in summer. While the area experiences its share of crystalline days with endless views, the elevation means temperatures can plunge quickly when the sun dips behind the ridgeline. Seasoned hikers know to prepare for rapid weather changes, as conditions here can shift from sunshine to wind-driven mist in minutes.
ElevationAt 3,750 feet above sea level, this high-altitude retreat places you firmly in the subalpine zone, where the air grows thin and the views expand exponentially. This elevation puts you above much of the valley fog and low-lying clouds, often treating early risers to spectacular sunrise views above a sea of clouds. The altitude creates a unique microclimate where hardy mountain flora thrives and the landscape transforms into something more akin to northern Canada than southern New England.
Natural Features and SceneryKinsman Pond serves as the crown jewel of this backcountry site, its dark waters reflecting the surrounding peaks like a natural mirror. This glacial tarn, cradled between ancient ridgelines, offers moments of profound tranquility—whether you're watching morning mist rise from its surface or catching the alpenglow paint its waters pink at sunset. The convergence of the Kinsman Ridge and Fishin' Jiminy trails creates a natural crossroads where hikers share stories and swap trail conditions. The surrounding forest transitions from dense hardwoods to wind-stunted conifers, creating a diverse ecosystem that changes dramatically with the seasons.
Geological RegionWhite Mountain National Forest
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features mentioned.
Sites SizeThe shelter can accommodate 12 people, and there are three single tent platforms and one group tent platform. No further sizes mentioned.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest mixed experiences regarding privacy. Bryan Burbank recommended the first or second tent site over the platform group site due to noisy neighbors.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Even a place to store thinks in a bear proof bin which is a nice added touch!"
Best Campsites"I would recommend the 1st or 2nd tentsite verse the one with 3 platforms. Noisy neighbors showed up at dark and kept us up and woke us early."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
One group tent platform available. No specific details on capacity beyond standard site configurations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout"Large double decker shelter, several tent sites."
Open and Closed SeasonOpen 24 hours/day
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilitySelf-service cash boxes are available when the caretaker is absent.
Cancellation Policynull
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kinsman Pond Shelter, located at 3,750 ft elevation, is ideal for hikers and nature lovers seeking a serene environment. Activities focus on outdoor adventures, such as hiking and wildlife viewing. Derek Baker appreciated the scenic quick jaunt to North Kinsman from the lake, and many reviews highlighted the area's beauty and tranquility.
Hiking
The shelter is located at the junction of multiple trails, including the Appalachian Trail. Derek Baker describes the area as 'a quick jaunt up to North Kinsman,' showcasing its appeal to hikers.Wildlife viewing
Users frequently highlight the area's natural beauty and tranquility, suggesting excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
Snow-related activities such as hiking or winter camping could be possible given the weather data trends, but no specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No direct mentions of water sports available at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"Come prepared, bring water and food. A water filter will come in handy to drink from the pond. Remember don't drink directly from the pond, USE A WATER FILTER!"
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo explicit information on trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water features"Nice and quiet, beautiful little pond (but filter it) and just a quick jaunt up to north kinsman."
Common complaintsSome complaints about noisy neighbors disrupting the camping experience: "Noisy neighbors showed up at dark and kept us up and woke us early. Completely inconsiderate."
HostSeasonal caretaker. One user mentioned "Dan is potentially the funnest and most interesting caretaker ever."
Campground Map
Driving directionsnull
nullNearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.5
9 reviews
Kinsman Pond Shelter is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Kinsman Pond Shelter receives mostly positive reviews emphasizing its natural beauty, rustic features, and suitability for hikers. Highlights include the proximity to trails, scenic views, and practical amenities like the bear box and outhouse. Seasonal caretakers add a helpful touch, with one user describing Dan as 'fun and interesting.' Some reviewers noted noisy neighbors at the group tent platforms.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers consistently praised the scenic location near Kinsman Pond and the rustic charm of the double-decker shelter. Matthew Rudomanski described the views as 'spectacular,' and Courtney Mattingly...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise at group tent platforms was a recurring complaint, with Bryan Burbank advising to avoid them. The lack of potable water was also mentioned as a challenge, requiring campers to bring a filter.
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
1. Bring a water filter to safely drink pond water. 2. Select the first or second tent site for greater privacy and less noise. 3. Prepare for a rustic experience with no potable water or modern...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors appear to enjoy the shelter year-round, but the absence of potable water and the need for hiking access may make it less suitable in severe winter conditions. Weather data suggests colder...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Incredible log cabin lodge right on Lake with spectacular views of North Kinsman.' - Matthew Rudomanski. 2. 'Great place to rest when you are hiking this trail. Come prepared, bring water and...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
1. Bryan Burbank: Recommended the first or second tent site over the group tent platform due to noise issues. 2. Derek Baker highlighted the 'quick jaunt up to North Kinsman' as a positive feature.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews addressing pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025