Thirteen Falls Tentsite
4.4310 reviewsnull
Thirteen Falls Tentsite
$10.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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. Self-service cash boxes are utilized when the seasonal caretaker is absent. Some reviews indicate historical fees of $10 per person per night.
About this campground
Deep in the heart of the Pemigewasset Wilderness, where three backcountry trails converge like ancient forest highways, Thirteen Falls Tentsite awaits the adventurous soul. This remote sanctuary offers nine thoughtfully spaced tent pads nestled among towering trees, each providing a private slice of wilderness solitude. Modern backcountry amenities include a secure bear box for food storage, a well-maintained composting privy, and a dedicated dishwashing station that helps preserve the pristine environment. During peak season, a knowledgeable caretaker tends to the site, offering local wisdom and ensuring this wilderness gem remains unspoiled for future generations.
Thirteen Falls Tentsite is specifically designed for tent camping in a backcountry wilderness setting.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain weather here dances to its own rhythm throughout the year, with conditions that can shift from sun-drenched mornings to misty afternoons in the span of hours. This elevated backcountry location experiences the full drama of New England's seasons - from snow-laden winters that transform the landscape into a crystalline wonderland to verdant summers alive with the sound of rushing water. Visitors should come prepared for nature's mood swings, as the wilderness elevation creates its own microclimate that can surprise even seasoned hikers.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThirteen Falls earns its name from the symphony of cascading water that surrounds this enchanted campsite. The thundering chorus of waterfalls provides a natural soundtrack to your wilderness experience, while mist from the tumbling waters creates ethereal morning rainbows. Ancient hemlocks and birches frame views of granite ledges polished smooth by centuries of flowing water. The surrounding Pemigewasset Wilderness stretches endlessly in all directions, offering glimpses of untamed forest that has remained largely unchanged since the days of the early explorers. Each tent pad offers its own unique perspective on this water-carved landscape, where moss-covered boulders and fern-lined streams create intimate natural gardens.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Pemigewasset Wilderness, one of the crown jewels of the White Mountain National Forest, this campsite sits at the intersection of geological history and natural beauty. The 'Pemi,' as locals affectionately call it, encompasses over 45,000 acres of protected wilderness where granite peaks rise above dense forests and crystal-clear streams carve their way through valleys formed by ancient glaciers. This rugged landscape represents millions of years of geological storytelling, from volcanic origins to Ice Age sculpting, creating the dramatic terrain that makes the White Mountains a hiker's paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options are unspecified for campers with disabilities. The wilderness setting may present challenges.
Sites SizeThe site consists of 9 tent pads. Some tent pads are uneven, and sites are spaced 30-50 feet apart.
Sites PrivacySites are not isolated from each other; spacing is approximately 30-50 feet apart.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group camping features are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNine tent pads arranged closely together, approximately 30-50 feet apart.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served system; no reservations allowed.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The primary activity at Thirteen Falls Tentsite is hiking. The site is located near the junction of Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook, and Twin Brook Trails, offering opportunities for day hikes and backcountry exploration. Several users highlighted nearby scenic water features, including cascades and swimming holes.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails such as Franconia Brook Trail and Lincoln Brook Trail. Franconia Brook Trail is wide and follows an old rail bed, while Lincoln Brook Trail is scenic and more natural with single-track sections. The short hike to Franconia Falls offers excellent views and swimming.Swimming
A swimming hole is available near the tentsite, and users have praised it as a highlight of the camping experience.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned, but extreme weather conditions may limit camping usability.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not applicable at this tentsite.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews indicate bear activity; bear boxes reported as destroyed in some instances.
Active alertsBear boxes have been destroyed by bears, and caretakers may be absent for days.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling services are not mentioned and likely unavailable given the site's remote setting.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near cascades and waterfalls.
Common complaints"Bear boxes have been destroyed (by bears) and bears have been coming into the camp all day," "Sites were OK but uneven off to the side when full," "Caretaker was MIA."
HostSeasonal caretaker is sometimes available.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsLocated near the junction of the Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook, and Twin Brook Trails in the Pemigewasset Wilderness.
Hiking access only; no direct road access. Requires a backcountry hike.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.4
10 reviews
Thirteen Falls Tentsite is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Thirteen Falls Tentsite highlight its rugged wilderness appeal, scenic water features, and opportunities for unplugging from daily life. However, complaints include maintenance issues such as damaged bear boxes, an absent caretaker, and uneven tent pads.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include beautiful scenery, a swimming hole, backcountry hiking trails, and the site's ability to offer a retreat from daily life. One reviewer described the site as 'one of the most...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include damaged bear boxes, uneven tent pads, and occasional caretaker absenteeism. One review labeled the site as 'a hot mess' due to bear activity and lack of caretaker presence.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include avoiding the Owls Head Trail for access, using bug spray, and checking for site maintenance issues upon arrival. One user recommended hiking out and back via Lincoln Brook Trail for more...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer and early fall are popular seasons due to accessible hiking and swimming. Winter conditions may limit usability, as extreme cold and snow are frequent in this location.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Simply amazing. The tentsite is very rustic and it's not easy to get to but the scenery is unbelievable.' - Kris Ahlstrom
2. 'Great tent site, privy, cook area, bear boxes.' - Jeremy
3. 'The...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention uneven tent pads and close spacing between sites. One reviewer stated they had to camp off to the side due to lack of available pads.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is not reviewed or mentioned in user accounts.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically detail experiences with pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025