Trapper John Shelter
00 reviewTrapper John 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 is required to use the Trapper John Shelter.
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About this campground
Nestled deep in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, the Trapper John Shelter offers weary hikers a rustic retreat along the legendary Appalachian Trail. This charming three-sided shelter, lovingly maintained by the Dartmouth Outing Club, sits just 1.1 miles from Dorchester Road, welcoming up to eight adventurers seeking refuge from their trail journey. With its thoughtfully placed composting privy, inviting fire ring for evening gatherings, and reliable water source nearby, this backcountry haven provides all the essentials for a memorable night under the stars. Best of all, this wilderness sanctuary operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees required—just pure, accessible adventure for those ready to embrace the trail life.
The Trapper John Shelter is a primitive camping site maintained by the Dartmouth Outing Club. It caters to dispersed campers and hikers on the Appalachian Trail.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of New England's ever-changing seasons at Trapper John Shelter. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, where freezing temperatures and pristine snowfall create a challenging yet rewarding backdrop for cold-weather adventurers. As spring awakens the forest, expect refreshing rains that nourish the emerging wildflowers and fill the mountain streams. Summer brings gentle warmth perfect for trail hiking, though late spring and early summer showers keep the forest lush and vibrant. Each season paints the shelter's surroundings with its own unique palette, offering hikers a different adventure with every visit.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery by curious hikers, the shelter's mountain setting promises that authentic high-country experience that draws adventurers to New Hampshire's peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of the White Mountain National Forest, where towering trees create a living cathedral around the Trapper John Shelter. This section of the Appalachian Trail showcases nature at its most dramatic—rugged mountain terrain that challenges your legs while rewarding your eyes with breathtaking forest vistas. The surrounding wilderness pulses with life, from the whisper of wind through ancient pines to the occasional glimpse of wildlife moving through the understory. Here, the famous AT weaves through a landscape that embodies the wild heart of New England's mountains.
Geological RegionThe Trapper John Shelter stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between the White Mountain National Forest and the dedicated volunteers of the Dartmouth Outing Club. This mountainous region, sculpted by millennia of geological forces, presents hikers with classic New England terrain—steep ridges, deep valleys, and dense forests that have captivated outdoor enthusiasts for generations. The shelter serves as a perfect basecamp for exploring this rugged landscape, where every trail offers a new perspective on the ancient mountains that define New Hampshire's wild character.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information on accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeThe shelter can accommodate up to 8 people.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy is not explicitly detailed, though the remote location suggests some degree of seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to ensure availability, as the shelter operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Best CampsitesThe Trapper John Shelter is the only campsite at this location.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limit information is not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The shelter can accommodate up to 8 people.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe site includes a single 3-walled shelter and associated amenities such as a composting privy and fire ring.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is implied, as there is no reservation system for this shelter.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is designed for dispersed camping and offers a primitive camping experience. Its location along the Appalachian Trail makes it appealing for hikers and those seeking a rustic outdoor experience.
Hiking
The Trapper John Shelter is accessible via the Holts Ledge Trail (part of the Appalachian Trail) and a spur trail, making it ideal for hikers. No further details about the trail's difficulty or length beyond the 1.1-mile distance from Dorchester Road are provided.Winter Activities
No information on winter activities is provided, though the site may be accessible year-round depending on weather conditions.Water Sports
The shelter does not provide opportunities for non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- A fire ring is available, but specific fire policies are not documented.
Hazards
General hazardsNo specific hazards are mentioned, but potential risks include rugged terrain, wildlife encounters, and exposure to inclement weather.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Details about emergency services are not provided.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are mentioned, so campers should plan to pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresA water source is nearby, though the type (stream, river, etc.) is not specified.
Common complaintsNo complaints are documented, but the lack of potable water and restrooms may be potential drawbacks for some visitors.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Dorchester Road, follow the Holts Ledge Trail (part of the Appalachian Trail) for 1.1 miles. A spur trail leads to the shelter.
Access to the shelter is via a hiking trail (Holts Ledge Trail on the Appalachian Trail). The trail is unpaved and requires hiking, making it unsuitable for vehicles. There are no seasonal closures mentioned.Nearby places
Dorchester (exact distance not provided), potentially other nearby towns in the White Mountain National Forest region.
Nearby supplies
Information on the nearest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel is not available.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Trapper John Shelter has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews or ratings were provided in the source materials.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
No direct user feedback is available to highlight positive aspects.
Common Concerns
No common complaints are documented.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
No user-provided tips or recommendations are included.
Seasonal Insights
No reviews are available to analyze seasonal trends.
Camper Quotes
No direct quotes from users are available.
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews specific to the Trapper John Shelter or its surrounding area are provided.
Accessibility Features
No reviews address accessibility experiences for individuals with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
No feedback regarding pet policies or experiences is available.
Last updated August 10, 2025