Doublehead Cabin
4.4229 reviewsQuick Facts
3,053 ftPrice
$40/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
3,053 ftPrice
$40/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Doublehead Cabin
$40.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for the cabin is $40, applicable throughout the year. This rate does not include additional reservation fees ($8-$9 online/app or...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider603-447-5448
What Campers Say
4.42
Recommended
Based on 29 reviews
Most mentioned
viewspeacefullocation
"Reviews highlight both the charm and challenges of Doublehead Cabin. Visitors appreciate the stunning views, tranquility, and rustic nature of the cabin, though many caution about the steep hike, cold conditions, and minimal amenities."
Fees & Passes at Doublehead Cabin
$40/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: 14 consecutive nights
Cancellation: Reservations can be modified or canceled ahead of arrival. A $10 change fee applies for major change...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official U.S. Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Doublehead Cabin
The mountain's moods shift dramatically with the seasons, creating an ever-changing canvas for outdoor adventures. Winter transforms Doublehead into a formidable landscape where temperatures plunge below zero and fierce winds test even seasoned mountaineers—proper gear and preparation become your closest allies. Summer brings gentler days with mild temperatures perfect for hiking, though the White Mountains' notorious mood swings mean sunny mornings can quickly give way to afternoon storms. This unpredictable mountain weather adds an element of wild authenticity to every visit.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Year-round peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round; reservations can be made on a 6-month rolling basis.
- Current Alerts: Guests are advised to contact the Saco Ranger District before their visit to confirm the lock code for the cabin.
About Doublehead Cabin
Perched high on Doublehead Mountain, this historic 1930s cabin beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic backcountry retreat. Built by the skilled hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps, Doublehead Cabin rewards those willing to tackle the challenging 1.8-mile ascent with a genuine wilderness sanctuary. More than just a shelter, this rustic mountain refuge serves as both a welcoming warming hut for winter enthusiasts and a peaceful haven for summer hikers exploring the rugged beauty of New Hampshire's high country.
Doublehead Cabin provides a unique backcountry camping experience limited to a single rustic log cabin. It is ideal for those seeking solitude and a rugged wilderness adventure.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to the 1930s when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved ski trails and erected sturdy shelters across these mountains, leaving a lasting legacy for generations of outdoor enthusiasts. Doublehead Cabin stands as a testament to their craftsmanship and vision, part of an ambitious project that helped transform the White Mountains into New England's premier destination for skiing and hiking. Every weathered beam and worn floorboard tells the story of countless adventurers who've found refuge within these walls over nearly a century.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain's moods shift dramatically with the seasons, creating an ever-changing canvas for outdoor adventures. Winter transforms Doublehead into a formidable landscape where temperatures plunge below zero and fierce winds test even seasoned mountaineers—proper gear and preparation become your closest allies. Summer brings gentler days with mild temperatures perfect for hiking, though the White Mountains' notorious mood swings mean sunny mornings can quickly give way to afternoon storms. This unpredictable mountain weather adds an element of wild authenticity to every visit.
ElevationRising to 3,053 feet above sea level, Doublehead Cabin occupies a spectacular perch in the sky where the air grows thin and the views expand endlessly. This lofty elevation places you firmly in the backcountry realm, far removed from the bustle below, where alpine breezes carry the scent of spruce and fir, and the only sounds are wind through the trees and your own breathing after the climb.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your 3,053-foot vantage point, the legendary Presidential Range unfolds in breathtaking panorama, with mighty Mount Washington commanding the horizon like a granite sentinel. Dense forests of spruce and fir embrace the cabin, creating a verdant sanctuary within the vast White Mountain National Forest ecosystem. This pristine wilderness serves as home to magnificent moose browsing through mountain meadows, elusive black bears foraging in berry patches, and over 230 species of birds that fill the forest with their songs. Each sunrise and sunset paints the surrounding peaks in spectacular alpenglow, creating moments of pure mountain magic.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent White Mountain National Forest, Doublehead Cabin crowns the north summit of its namesake mountain, standing proud among the legendary peaks of New Hampshire's Presidential Range. This dramatic landscape tells an ancient geological story written in granite and shaped by glaciers, where rugged trails wind through dense forests toward some of the Northeast's most iconic summits. The cabin's strategic position offers intimate views of Mount Washington, the region's towering monarch, while serving as a gateway to endless adventures across this wild and beautiful corner of New England.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is not wheelchair-accessible due to its remote location and the steep, rugged terrain leading to it.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 8 people with wooden bunks for sleeping.
Sites PrivacyThe site is secluded and offers privacy due to its backcountry location. However, hikers may pass by as it is located at a summit.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors should bring adequate cold-weather gear, lightweight supplies, and their own firewood. A saw and axe are recommended for processing wood.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
8guests maximum
Groups
There are no designated group sites.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin features 8 wooden bunks, 2 tables, benches, and a wood stove.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; reservations can be made on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are required in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified or canceled ahead of arrival. A $10 change fee applies for major changes. Late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in) forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10 penalty.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Doublehead Cabin offers a variety of activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. The steep trails provide challenges for experienced hikers, and the summit offers breathtaking views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range.
Hiking
Numerous trails lead to and from the cabin, including the Doublehead Ski Trail and trails to the South Peak of Doublehead Mountain. Some trails are steep and rated difficult. "The hike to the cabin is about 1.8 miles with an elevation gain of 1,500 feet."Wildlife viewing
The White Mountain National Forest houses 237 bird species, moose, and black bears. Visitors may encounter wildlife during their stay. Guests are advised to follow bear safety guidelines.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the Doublehead Ski Trail. The cabin itself was originally designed as a warming hut for skiers in the 1930s.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Wood stove available. Guests are required to source wood locally and adhere to fire safety measures.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsThe region is home to black bears, and guests are advised to practice bear safety. Steep trails and icy conditions can also pose challenges.
Active alertsGuests are advised to contact the Saco Ranger District before their visit to confirm the lock code for the cabin.
Weather at Doublehead Cabin
16
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Moderate snow fall
Precipitation: 0.8%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Very Light Snow - (0.80% chance)
Light flurries possible
Moderate snow fall
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Saco Ranger District (603-447-5448). For medical emergencies, the nearest hospital is in North Conway, NH, approximately 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesYear-round peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling services are not provided. Guests are required to pack out all trash and leftover food.
Proximity to water featuresNo water sources nearby. Guests should bring sufficient water or use a filtration system for nearby streams.
Common complaintsSome guests reported issues with the lock code not working and expressed dissatisfaction with the cabin's limited insulation and the wood stove's inability to fully heat the space.
HostManaged by the U.S. Forest Service. Direct inquiries to the Saco Ranger District.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom NH Route 16 in Jackson, turn onto Route 16A. Take Route 16B (Black Mountain Road) and follow for about 2 miles. Just past Black Mountain Ski Area, Rt 16B turns into Dundee Road. Continue on Dundee Road to the trailhead 1 mile on the left with space for 3-5 vehicles. The ski trail reaches the cabin in 1.8 miles via a steep grade.
The cabin is only accessible via a steep 1.8-mile hike along the Doublehead Ski Trail, with an elevation gain of 1,500 feet. This trail is suitable for hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing, but the steep grade may be challenging for some visitors.Nearby places
Jackson: Approximately 5 miles (10-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, can be found in Jackson or North Conway, NH, approximately 5-15 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
29 reviews
Doublehead Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight both the charm and challenges of Doublehead Cabin. Visitors appreciate the stunning views, tranquility, and rustic nature of the cabin, though many caution about the steep hike, cold conditions, and minimal amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests love the breathtaking views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range, the peaceful backcountry location, and the unique, historic charm of the 1930s-era log cabin. "The cabin is an...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the steep and challenging hike to the cabin, insufficient heating from the small wood stove, and the lack of prior information about the difficulty of the terrain. "The...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend packing light, bringing extra firewood, and preparing for extreme cold in winter. "Microspikes are essential for the steep, icy trail," and "Pack all camping items, including...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter visits are described as harsh due to the cold, with some reviews noting temperatures inside the cabin close to outdoor conditions. Spring and fall are highlighted for more moderate weather and...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This cabin is an absolute jewel!" - Kevin P. "Amazing views. Pack all camping items." - Maria P. "The challenging climb is worth the views at the top." - Jaylon C. "The tiny lil' woodstove doesn't...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001, the Doublehead Cabin, is the only campsite available. It receives mixed reviews, with many appreciating the rustic charm but cautioning about the difficult hike and cold conditions.
Based on 29 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews about accessibility were provided, but it is noted that the cabin is not easily accessible due to the nature of the hike.
Based on 29 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pets in reviews.
Based on 29 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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