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Map showing campground location near Gilead, Maine
Camper submitted image from Carlo Col — Mahoosucs Ecological ReserveView 10 Photos
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Carlo Col — Mahoosucs Ecological Reserve

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This free hike-in campground sits within the Mahoosucs Ecological Reserve, accessed via Success Pond Road from Berlin, New Hampshire—a drive that can take over 45 minutes on a route heavily used by off-highway vehicle traffic. The Appalachian Mountain Club manages the site, which features a 12-person shelter, several tent platforms including one for larger groups, and a kitchen area with a bear box. A caretaker often stays on-site during peak season to maintain the privy and facilities, though conditions can deteriorate when unmanned during off-season periods. Water flows from a source a short distance down the trail, though flow decreases during dry spells. The campground draws Appalachian Trail thru-hikers when other ridge options fill up. Campers planning trips to the area can explore camping near Gilead for additional options.

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Map & DirectionsCarlo Col is located in Maine near Gilead

Detail location of campground
Private Campground

Coordinates

44.48867017 N
71.01618028 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Carlo Col

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1 Review

Reviewed Jun. 14, 2018

Avoid if you can simply because of high traffic

Close enough to the AT to entice thru hikers to divert if other options on the trail are full just up the ridge. The Appalachian Mountain Club runs the site and there is often a caretake present at the sight. The shelter can sleep about 12 people and there are several tent platforms including one for a larger group. All of the structures are in decent shape and the privy is generally pretty clean if the caretaker is on top of it. However, don't be surprised to see it in disarray in the off season when no one is up there maintaining it.

There is a kitchen area with a bear box. Be advised that the box is significantly rusted and quite gross when you open it. It's only a matter of time before the entire bottom rusts out. There is a water source a short distance down the trail and it flows decently well unless it's been exceptionally dry. The trailhead runs along Success Pond road which is used heavily by OHVR traffic and can take more than 45 minutes to drive from Berlin, NH to the trailhead. Due to the large storms in October 2017, you cannot drive the road from the Upton, Maine side.

If you're in a pinch and need a spot to stay, then Carlo Col will due but it wouldn't be my first choice.

SiteShelter
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Carlo Col — Mahoosucs Ecological Reserve by Sarah C., June 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Carlo Col — Mahoosucs Ecological Reserve by Sarah C., June 14, 2018
  • Review photo of Carlo Col — Mahoosucs Ecological Reserve by Sarah C., June 14, 2018
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Carlo Col shelter and campsite?

Carlo Col offers a shelter that can accommodate approximately 12 people for overnight stays. The campsite features several tent platforms, including one that's particularly spacious. The Appalachian Mountain Club maintains the site, and there is often a caretaker present who oversees the facilities. The amenities are basic and focused on providing essential shelter for hikers in this backcountry location.

How difficult is the hike to Carlo Col Campground?

The hike to Carlo Col Campground involves climbing to a ridge in the Mahoosuc Range, making it moderately challenging. Since it's positioned just off the Appalachian Trail, hikers should be prepared for typical White Mountain terrain with some elevation gain. The effort required to reach the campsite means it's better suited for experienced hikers with proper equipment rather than casual day hikers or beginners.

Do I need reservations for Carlo Col Campground?

While formal reservations aren't typically required for Carlo Col Campground, the site does have limited capacity with a 12-person shelter and several tent platforms. During peak hiking season on the Appalachian Trail, the shelter and campsites can fill up, especially when nearby AT shelters are full. For the most current information on any reservation requirements or fees, contact the Appalachian Mountain Club who manages the site.

Where is Carlo Col Campground located in the White Mountains?

Carlo Col Campground is located in the Mahoosuc Ecological Reserve section of the White Mountains, just off the Appalachian Trail. It sits up on a ridge in the Mahoosuc Range, making it accessible to AT thru-hikers who might divert from the main trail. The site is situated in a relatively remote area and is managed by the Appalachian Mountain Club.

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