Horn Pond Campsite

For those of us in Maine who truly embrace the wild spirit of our state, Horn Pond Campsite offers an authentic and enriching backcountry experience. Located directly on the legendary Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Kingfield, this campsite is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a vital waypoint for thru-hikers and a serene escape for anyone seeking deep immersion in Maine's pristine wilderness, particularly within the stunning Bigelow Preserve.

Horn Pond Campsite embodies the essence of primitive camping, far removed from the conveniences of modern life. Here, the focus is entirely on connecting with nature, enjoying the quiet solitude of the forest, and appreciating the rugged beauty of the surrounding mountains. With its charming lean-tos and tenting areas by the scenic Horns Pond, it’s a "great spot" that invites you to unplug, rejuvenate, and experience the raw, untouched heart of Maine's celebrated long-distance trail system. It's a must-go for those who cherish true outdoor adventure.

Horn Pond Campsite is specifically located on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail near Kingfield, ME 04947, USA. Its unique setting means that it is primarily accessible by foot, making it a true backcountry camping destination. While there might be various entry points to the Appalachian Trail (AT) or connecting side trails that lead to Horn Pond, the most direct way to reach it involves hiking. For instance, from the AT parking area off Route 27 (north of Sugarloaf Mountain), one can hike the Appalachian Trail northbound. An alternative, often described as less difficult, is the Fire Warden Trail, which also leads to Horns Pond.

This foot-traffic-only access is a defining characteristic, ensuring that the campsite remains peaceful and retains its wilderness integrity. Visitors planning to stay at Horn Pond Campsite should be prepared for a hike of several miles, carrying all their gear. This isn't a drive-up campground, which contributes significantly to its allure for those seeking a genuine outdoor challenge and seclusion. Given its location within the Bigelow Preserve, visitors should also be aware of any specific park regulations or permits required for backcountry camping or hiking in the area, and always adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

• Lean-tos: Horn Pond Campsite features two lean-tos, which are three-sided shelters providing basic overhead cover for campers. These are popular among AT thru-hikers and offer a rustic sleeping experience.
• Tent Sites ("Plattes"): In addition to lean-tos, there are several designated tent sites, sometimes referred to as "plattes." These are cleared spots or platforms designed for setting up individual tents, minimizing impact on the surrounding environment.
• Moldering Toilet/Privy: For sanitation, the campsite is equipped with a moldering toilet (a type of outhouse or privy), which is a standard facility for backcountry campsites on the Appalachian Trail.
• Water Source: A nearby spring serves as a source of water. However, all water collected from this natural source must be filtered or treated before consumption to ensure safety.
• Food Storage: While not explicitly detailed as bear boxes for this specific site in all information, the Maine Appalachian Trail Club (MATC) generally emphasizes proper food storage. Reviews suggest five-gallon buckets may be provided at "plattes" for storing food to deter pests like red squirrels, highlighting the need for vigilance against wildlife.
• No Electric Hookups: In line with its primitive, backcountry nature, Horn Pond Campsite does not offer electric hookups. This ensures a quiet, dark-sky environment perfect for stargazing and truly disconnecting.

• Appalachian Trail Access: Being directly on the Appalachian Trail is its most significant feature. This makes it an ideal stop for long-distance hikers and offers day hikers the chance to experience a section of this iconic national scenic trail.
• Scenic Horns Pond: The campsite is located right by Horns Pond, a beautiful 3-acre pond within the Bigelow Range. The pond offers picturesque views and is suitable for taking a dip to cool off after a hike. It is also known for good fishing, particularly for native brook trout, inviting anglers to pack a rod.
• Bigelow Preserve & Range: Horn Pond Campsite is nestled within the expansive Bigelow Preserve, an area of extraordinary scenic beauty featuring rugged mountains, backcountry forests, and high-elevation ponds. The Bigelow Range, with peaks over 4,000 feet, offers challenging and rewarding hiking.
• Proximity to Major Peaks: The campsite provides a base for accessing the Horns of the Bigelow Range (North Horn and South Horn), offering incredible views from their summits. The Appalachian Trail in this section leads over challenging terrain and offers panoramic vistas.
• True Wilderness Experience: Reviews consistently praise Horn Pond Campsite as a "great spot" that helps visitors "get in tune with Nature." The absence of large campers and electric hookups contributes to a quiet, pleasant, and genuinely wild atmosphere.
• Wildlife Abundance: The Bigelow Preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, bear, and various bird species, offering opportunities for observation in their natural habitat.
• Maintained by MATC: The Maine Appalachian Trail Club (MATC), an all-volunteer organization, maintains the AT and associated facilities like Horn Pond Campsite in Maine, ensuring trails and shelters are kept in good condition for hikers.

Address: Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Kingfield, ME 04947, USA

Please note: Horn Pond Campsite does not have a direct phone number as it is a backcountry site on the Appalachian Trail. Reservations are typically not taken for AT shelters and campsites; they operate on a first-come, first-served basis for thru-hikers and backpackers. However, for general information about the Appalachian Trail in Maine, trail conditions, or specific regulations for the Bigelow Preserve, you can contact:

Maine Appalachian Trail Club (MATC): They are the primary resource for information about the Maine section of the AT, including shelters and campsites. Their website (matc.org) is an invaluable resource for maps, trail guides, and contact information.

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) - Bureau of Parks and Lands: As the Horn Pond Campsite is within the Bigelow Preserve, a public land, their office may also provide relevant information. Their general contact for parks and lands might be found on maine.gov/dacf.

It is always crucial to check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and any specific alerts or regulations from these official sources before embarking on a trip to a backcountry site like Horn Pond Campsite.

For those of us in Maine who truly embody the spirit of outdoor adventure and a deep appreciation for our state's wild beauty, Horn Pond Campsite is a quintessential destination. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Appalachian Trail firsthand, not just as a passing scenic route, but as a place to truly live and breathe the backcountry. This campsite appeals directly to Mainers who seek an escape from the ordinary, a challenge that rewards with stunning vistas, and the profound quietude that only a truly primitive setting can offer.

The fact that there are "no big monster campers allowed" and "no electric hook ups" isn't a drawback for us; it's a testament to the raw, untouched wilderness experience that we often crave. It allows us to "get in tune with Nature" in a way that modern campgrounds simply cannot facilitate. Sleeping in a lean-to or a tent by Horns Pond, with the sounds of the forest around you and an unobstructed view of the night sky, is an experience that resonates deeply with our connection to Maine's natural heritage.

Whether you're an avid hiker looking to tackle sections of the Bigelow Range, an angler hoping to catch native brook trout in Horns Pond, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful retreat far from the sounds of traffic and crowds, this campsite delivers. Its accessibility primarily by foot means that only those truly dedicated to the wilderness will reach it, preserving its serene atmosphere. Horn Pond Campsite isn't just a place to stay; it's an invitation for Mainers to connect with the very soul of our state's legendary trails and untamed landscapes, promising an unforgettable adventure right in our own backyard.