Garfield Ridge Shelter

Star4.62
24 reviews

Quick Facts

3,900 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

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Garfield Ridge 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$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

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What Campers Say

4.62

Top-Rated

Based on 24 reviews

19 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanwell-maintained

"User reviews are mixed but generally positive for hikers seeking respite along the Appalachian Trail. Some users praise the well-maintained facilities and the proximity to Mt. Garfield, while others criticize the cramped tent platforms and the $15 fee."

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Campground Map

Garfield Ridge Shelter

44.1908, -71.6084


Best Time to Camp at Garfield Ridge Shelter

Summer brings warm days and cool nights to this mountain perch, with temperatures often 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below. Morning mists frequently shroud the shelter before burning off to reveal spectacular views. Fall transforms the surrounding hardwood forests into a tapestry of gold and crimson, while early season hikers may encounter lingering snow patches well into May. Weather can change rapidly at this elevation, making proper gear essential year-round.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Warm days/cool nights, staffed caretaker, busy season with good views and maintained facilities.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

High-elevation NH fall foliage and views are likely excellent; seasonal foliage implied though not explicit.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring conditions are variable; hiking possible but trail/snow conditions may limit access.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Winter is self-service and access varies; not promoted for winter recreation here.

Planning Tips

    About Garfield Ridge Shelter

    Perched high on the eastern shoulder of Mt. Garfield, this mountain sanctuary offers weary hikers a welcome respite at 3,900 feet along the legendary Appalachian Trail. The campground features a classic 12-person Adirondack-style shelter that has provided refuge to countless trail adventurers, complemented by seven intimate 4-person tent platforms scattered throughout the forest clearing. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the wilderness setting, including a composting privy, secure bear box for food storage, and a dedicated dishwashing area. A pristine mountain spring bubbles nearby, offering crystal-clear water that has refreshed generations of hikers. During the bustling summer months, a knowledgeable caretaker tends to the site, sharing local wisdom and ensuring this high-altitude haven remains pristine for all who seek its shelter.
    Garfield Ridge Shelter provides accommodations for both tent camping and a 12-person shelter for Appalachian Trail hikers.
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    Amenities available

    Food storage lockers

    Activities you can enjoy

    Garfield Ridge Shelter primarily serves as a waypoint for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. With a nearby water source and scenic views from Mt. Garfield, the site is well-suited for dispersed camping and trekking enthusiasts.
    HikingThe shelter is located off the Garfield Ridge Trail, part of the Appalachian Trail. User reviews highlight the proximity to Mt. Garfield, which offers spectacular sunrises and sunsets.
    Winter Activities
    Water Sports
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    Policies & Safety

    No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
    Food Storage RequiredSite includes bear boxes for food storage.

    Weather at Garfield Ridge Shelter

    Reviews

    4.6
    24 reviews
    Top-Rated
    Top-Rated
    Garfield Ridge Shelter is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
    User reviews are mixed but generally positive for hikers seeking respite along the Appalachian Trail. Some users praise the well-maintained facilities and the proximity to Mt. Garfield, while others criticize the cramped tent platforms and the $15 fee.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 24 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Highlights include the new, well-maintained shelter, clean facilities, and the spectacular views and sunrises from Mt. Garfield. One user noted, 'Great camp, camp keeper was very nice. Fit all our 3...
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    Based on 24 reviews

    Common Concerns

    Common complaints include cramped tent platforms and the $15 fee: 'Save yourself some money and go sleep literally anywhere else, it’ll be more beautiful and private.'
    Based on 24 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Campers recommend utilizing the nearby water source and planning for shared spaces on the tent platforms.
    Based on 24 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    Summer months are busy and staffed with a caretaker, while winter sees self-service fee management. Hiking accessibility may vary based on seasonal conditions.
    Based on 24 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    - 'Shelter is brand new...in great shape (no graffiti).' - 'There is also a great water source just before entering the tentsite spur.' - '$15 per person so that our tent can fall off the side of a...
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    Based on 24 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    Site-specific reviews highlight the 12-person shelter as a key feature and the tent platforms as cramped but functional.
    Based on 24 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    No reviews explicitly address accessibility features.
    Based on 24 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    No reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences.
    Based on 24 reviews

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    Last updated January 13, 2026
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