Kinsman Pond Shelter

Star4.43
25 reviews
Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,750 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Open 24 hours/day

Cell

Unknown

Pets

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Kinsman Pond Shelter
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee is $15 per person per night and is collected year-round. Utilize self-service cash boxes when caretaker is not present.
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

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What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 25 reviews

22 Google reviews

Most mentioned

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"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."

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Campground Map

Kinsman Pond Shelter

44.1371, -71.7324

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Best Time to Camp at Kinsman Pond Shelter

Life 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Accessible hiking, pleasant pond scenery and shelter make summer attractive.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

High-elevation vistas and foliage likely enhance scenic views in fall.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring is variable at 3,750 ft—scenic but potentially cold/wet and muddy on approach trails.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Alpine weather can be severe; site less suitable in winter and lacks potable water.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open 24 hours/day
  • Current Alerts: null

About Kinsman Pond Shelter

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.
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Amenities available

Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Group Sites

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.
HikingThe 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 viewingUsers frequently highlight the area's natural beauty and tranquility, suggesting excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"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!"
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No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Food Storage RequiredBear box available for food storage at the site.

Weather at Kinsman Pond Shelter

Reviews

4.4
25 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
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 25 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...
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Based on 25 reviews

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 25 reviews

Pro 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...
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Based on 25 reviews

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...
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Based on 25 reviews

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...
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Based on 25 reviews

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 25 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 25 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews addressing pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 25 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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